Could You Be at Risk for Cardiovascular Disease?

Potential Risk Factors

Men are more likely than women to develop coronary artery disease, which occurs when the arteries become hardened or “clogged” by fatty deposits, or plaque. Obesity is another contributing factor, especially if a person has a lot of fat in the abdominal area. As people age, they become more prone to cardiovascular disease. A sedentary lifestyle can raise one’s risk as well.

We all know that smoking is a major contributor to this type of disease, but second-hand smoke has also come under suspicion as a factor. Although it has not been proven that emotional distress will raise one’s risk, it will raise blood pressure – and that can be a strain on the heart. Diabetics are also at increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

Heredity plays a big role as well. If your family has a history of heart attacks or coronary artery disease, you are in the “at risk” category. If you are of African descent, Hispanic, or Native American, your risk is higher than it would be if you were Caucasian. Women who have passed menopause are also at increased risk for this type of disease.

A Word About Cholesterol

There are two different types of cholesterol. The “good” kind is known as HDL cholesterol and is believed to help cholesterol travel away from crucial arteries and to the liver, where it is processed.  High levels of HDL seem to lower one’s risk for heart disease, while low levels actually increase the risk.

The “bad” kind of cholesterol is named LDL. If you have high levels of LDL, it is important to bring those levels down. LDL will eventually coat the walls of arteries and develop into plaque. This decreases blood supply to the heart and brain and can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Sometimes pieces of the plaque will come loose and form a clot, blocking blood flow altogether in the affected artery.

How to Lower Your Risk

While some factors like genetic predisposition are impossible to change, you can significantly lower your risk by focusing on other factors. Obesity and excess abdominal fat can be taken off your “risk list” through eating a healthy diet and sticking to an exercise plan. The more you exercise, the stronger your heart will be. Cut down on foods high in cholesterol or sodium and try to keep your consumption of fat calories low.  Avoid smoking, or if you already smoke, quit. This habit raises blood pressure and puts you at increased risk. No matter what the cause, high blood pressure should be kept under control, possibly by taking medications or through lifestyle changes.

Be aware that each risk factor can be even more dangerous when combined with other risk factors. To get the best results from your heart-healthy plan, AHJ always recommends to combat as many risks as you can.