The number of people being diagnosed with Coronary Heart Disease in Fife, Tayside and Forth Valley has increased over the past year, bucking Scotland wide trends.
Additionally the number of people aged 44 and under being diagnosed with Coronary Heart Disease is on the rise in both Fife and Tayside.
In 2012/13, 42 more people were diagnosed with CHD across Fife, Tayside and the Forth Valley compared to 11/12.
However more alarmingly for residents under 44 years of age there was a 31% increase in heart disease incidents in Tayside and a 37.5% increase in Fife.
The number of people in NHS Tayside under 44 years old suffering from Heart disease is at its highest level since 2004.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Although the percentage change between 2011/12 and 12/13 is fairly small it must be understood in the context of an overall decrease in those suffering heart disease across Scotland.
“Furthermore, the fact that incidents of Heart disease in patients under 44 is on the rise in Fife and Tayside is a massive concern.
“The Scottish Government must continue to work hard to encourage Scots across the country to make the right life choices that will help reduce the risk of Coronary Heart Disease.”