Understanding risk factors the key to preventing heart disease

For most people, increasing heart disease awareness starts with a clear understanding of the risk factors associated with the disease. Knowing your risk is the first step in prevention.

According to Eric Martin, MD, cardiologist and medical director of the Prevention & Wellness Clinic at MercyOne Iowa Heart Center, common risk factors include:

Aging

Men are at increased risk for heart disease after age 45. A woman’s risk goes up at age 55, or if she has experienced menopause.

“We tend to overlook the simple fact that our risk for heart disease goes up as we grow older,” says Dr. Martin. “By the time you hit 40, you should be actively aware of your risks, and ready to take action.”

Family history of heart disease

Studies suggest family history may play a role in heart disease, particularly when diagnosed in younger people over successive generations. “We’re most concerned about family history when a parent or sibling has early heart disease – before age 45 for men, or age 55 for women,” Dr. Martin notes.

Cholesterol and heart disease

“The body makes all the cholesterol it needs, so adding any through your diet is extra,” says Dr. Martin. “The extra cholesterol forms plaques that can accumulate in the coronary arteries, eventually causing chest pain or a heart attack.”

Total cholesterol should be less than 200 mg/dl. Levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol should be as low as possible, while levels of HDL or “good” cholesterol should be high.

High blood pressure

Blood pressure should be 120/80 or lower. High blood pressure means your heart has to work harder than normal. When left untreated, the condition can weaken artery walls. Adults and children should have their blood pressure measured each year.

Smoking

Smoking contributes to plaque formation in the arteries, which may in turn lead to a heart attack or stroke. Cigarette use is linked to 30% of cardiovascular events.

“Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your overall health,” says Dr. Martin.

Diabetes

Nearly two-thirds of people with diabetes die of cardiovascular disease. Patients with diabetes should carefully monitor and control their condition, as well as their other risk factors for heart disease.

Effects of Obesity

Being overweight makes the heart work harder, increasing your risk for heart disease. In many cases, it also indicates a sedentary lifestyle and a low HDL level.

“Try to get as much physical activity as possible and eat a heart healthy diet to maintain a healthy weight,” said Dr. Martin.

Check out some tips for creating a nutritious diet.

Assess your heart risk

Heart disease prevention is critical. It should begin early in life. Start with an assessment of your risk factors. Take our heart disease risk assessment to find out your risk for heart disease.

Talk to your MercyOne health care team about developing a plan you can follow to maintain a low risk for heart attack.