Cardiovascular disease deaths are in west and far west NSW far outnumber those in the city, a familiar statistic that echoes the health divide between city and country.

This RedFeb, or Heart Awareness Month, the experts want you to do something about it. 

Heart disease affects two in three people in Australia, and when it comes to rate per 100,000 people, Sydney’s 102.8 people is far superseded by the far west’s 175.4 deaths and western NSW at 150.8. 

Like many facets of the health gap, experts attribute it to lower income, levels of employment and education, and difficulty accessing health food and sporting clubs.

An increasing cost of living only fuels the problem.

When eight out of ten instances of premature heart disease can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices, cardiologist Dr Avedis Ekmejian said that those choices are possible on a budget. 

“A heart-healthy diet doesn’t have to be costly. Focus on affordable staples such as beans, lentils, whole grains, and vegetables.”

“These foods are not only nutritious but also easy on your wallet.”

Dr Ekmejian said that staying active - something which four in five Australians aren’t doing enough - doesn’t require a gym. 

“Consider free or low-cost options like walking, jogging, or home workouts.”

“Gardening and household chores can also help you stay active while saving money.”

Managing stress by deep breathing, meditating, or spending time in nature or socially is also recommended, as well as regular health check ups. 

Heart Research Australia CEO Nicci Dent said that investing and prioritising health and preventative measures now will save money in the long run. 

“In the midst of the current economic climate, it is imperative to seek out cost-effective methods to safeguard your heart – as heart disease can impact anyone at any time," Ms Dent said.

 "The financial implications of heart disease are not just limited to medical costs. Recovery from heart attacks often leads to lost wages, reduced work capacity, and hindered career advancement, due to the physical and mental effects of the condition.”

Resources to cultivate heart-healthy habits can be found at Heart Research Australia’s Heart Hub.