Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death and disability in Australia -- and worldwide -- but it is an even greater threat for some ethnicities. New research confirms those from a South Asian heritage are statistically more likely to die prematurely from it than any other group. (Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death and disability in Australia -- and worldwide -- but it is an even greater threat for some ethnicities. New research confirms those from a South Asian heritage are statistically more likely to die prematurely from it than any other group. )