OVER 100 people a month in the South West die as a result of coronary heart disease (CHD) and thousands live with the condition on a daily basis.

Almost one in eight, 12 per cent, of people in the UK have been diagnosed with a disease of the heart or circulation, up from seven per cent in 1989.

The statistics, published by the British Heart Foundation, show that, although the number of deaths is falling steadily, more people are living with the disease.

Professor Sir Charles George, medical director of the BHF, said: "It is pleasing to see the death rate from CHD continuing to fall at a steady rate but our aim should be higher than simply keeping people alive.

"Most heart disease is avoidable if we take simple measures to improve our lifestyle.

"Too many people in the UK are exercising too little, eating diets too high in fat, salt and sugar, and consequently becoming overweight or obese.

"This trend has real and worrying implications for the future rates of CHD in the UK and for the freedom of future generations to lead long and healthy lives."

It is estimated that between 25 and 49 per cent of CHD in developed countries is due to people not eating enough fruit and vegetables.

The other main risk factors involved in developing the disease are smoking, drinking more than the recommended daily amount of alcohol and eating more than the recommended level of salt.

For more information on coronary heart disease and how to prevent it visit www.bhf.org.uk.