Answer
There are many risk
factors involved with whether or not you will develop
heart
disease or have a heart attack at some point in your life.
Here's a list of factors you can't change:
§ Heredity - If heart disease runs in your family, unfortunately this means you are at greater risk of developing problems.
§ Age - This one may seem obvious, but as you age, your risk of developing heart disease increases.
§ Gender - While heart disease is becoming more prevalent in women (it is still the number one killer in both men and women), men are still at greater risk.
While you can't do anything to change your age, gender or genetic makeup, there are some factors that you can control:
§ High cholesterol - The "bad" cholesterol can be controlled through diet and exercise. Medication is available if your doctor decides to treat it that way.
§ Diabetes - Even when glucose levels are kept under control, diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, controlling your blood sugar does help keep your heart in better health.
§ Smoking - If you smoke, your risk of developing heart disease is two to four times greater than nonsmokers.
§ Excessive weight or obesity - Excess body fat makes your heart work harder, raises blood pressure and lowers HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. It can also make you more prone to developing diabetes.
§ Lack of physical activity - Leading an inactive lifestyle puts you at greater risk for heart disease.
§ High blood pressure - Blood pressure should be kept below 120 over 80. Seek medical attention if yours is consistently higher.
Ask GoodHealth.com is intended for consumer education only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider with questions regarding your personal health or medical condition.
