If the coronary artery in the heart becomes blocked, the blood supply to the heart muscle is cut off, causing part of the heart to become damaged. This can cause a heart attack. If an artery transporting blood to the brain becomes blocked, this can lead to a stroke.
How to have a healthy heart: Maintain a healthy weight. Eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Eat less fatty, salty processed foods. Exercise for at least 30-60 minutes every day. Avoid alcohol and smoking. Reduce stress in your life and make time to relax.
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Science in Society Heart transplants
Research the story of the first successful heart transplant. Identify some of the important advances in heart transplant surgery since it was first performed. Create a timeline that shows the developments in standards and technology in heart transplant surgery. OR
Research any other organ transplant surgery.
Activity Design a poster: Design a poster providing information on how to look after your heart.
Fig. 13 Dr Christiaan Barnard performed the first human heart transplant in 1967.
Nature of Science
In this chapter you conducted an experiment to investigate the relationship between exercise and pulse rate. You organised and interpreted the data gathered and drew a conclusion about the relationship between exercise and pulse rate. By researching the history of heart transplants you will appreciate the role of scientists in society and the importance of science personally, socially and globally. Question: How did you ensure that your experiment was fair, safe, accurate and precise? Why is it important to ensure that experiments are fair tests and carried out in a safe, accurate and precise way?
