There are several major risk factors for heart attacks, some of which are modifiable and some of which are not. The following are some of the most important risk factors:
Age: As people age, the risk of heart disease increases. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), men aged 45 years and older and women aged 55 years and older are at greater risk of heart disease than younger individuals. [1]
Family history: Individuals with a family history of heart disease are at greater risk of developing heart disease themselves. According to the AHA, if a close relative has had heart disease, the risk of developing heart disease is two to three times higher than for those without a family history of heart disease. [1]
High blood pressure: High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart disease. According to the AHA, individuals with blood pressure readings of 130/80 mm Hg or higher are considered to have high blood pressure. [2]
High cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. According to the AHA, a total cholesterol level of less than 200 mg/dL is desirable, while a level of 240 mg/dL or higher is considered high. [3]
Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. According to the AHA, smokers are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease than non-smokers. [1]
Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at increased risk of heart disease. According to the AHA, individuals with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease than those without diabetes. [4]
Obesity: Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease. According to the AHA, individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese and are at increased risk of heart disease. [5]
Physical inactivity: Lack of physical activity can increase the risk of heart disease. According to the AHA, adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week to reduce their risk of heart disease. [6]
References:
[1] American Heart Association. (2021). Understand Your Risk of Heart Attack. Retrieved from
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/understand-your-risks-to-prevent-a-heart-attack[2] American Heart Association. (2021). High Blood Pressure. Retrieved from
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure[3] American Heart Association. (2021). Cholesterol. Retrieved from
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol[4] American Heart Association. (2021). Diabetes. Retrieved from
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/diabetes[5] American Heart Association. (2021). Overweight and Obesity. Retrieved from
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/losing-weight/overweight-and-obesity[6] American Heart Association. (2021). Physical Activity. Retrieved from
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults...
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