Coronary heart disease is America’s
No. 1 killer, according to the American Heart
Association. Stroke is No. 3 and a leading cause
of serious disability. That’s why it’s
important to reduce your risk factors.
The American Heart Association says these
factors may increase your risks: |
Your age may increase your
risk if...
|
- You are a man over 45 years old
- You are a woman over 55 years old, or you
have passed menopause or had your ovaries removed
and are not taking estrogen.
|
| Your Family History may increase your
risk if... |
- Your father or brother had a heart attack
before age 55 or your mother or sister had one
before age 65.
- You have a close blood relative who had a
stroke.
|
Smoking increases your risk if ...
|
- You smoke or live or work with people who
smoke every day.
|
Physical inactivity may increase your
risk if ...
|
- You get less than a total of 30 minutes of
physical activity on most days.
|
Your total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol
levels may increase your risk if ...
|
- Your total cholesterol level is 240 mg/dL
or higher
- Your HDL ("good") cholesterol level
is less than 35 mg/dL.
|
Your medical history may increase your
risk if ...
|
- You have coronary heart disease or you've
had a heart attack.
- You've been told that you have carotid artery
disease
- You've had a stroke or TIA or you have a disease
of the leg arteries.
|
Diabetes increases your risk if ...
|
- You have diabetes or a fasting blood sugar
of 126 mg/dL or higher or you need medicine
to control your blood sugar
|
Excess body weight may increase your risk
if ...
|
- You are 20 pounds or more overweight for your
height and build
|
Your blood pressure may increase your
risk if ...
|
- Your blood pressure is 140/90 mm Hg or higher,
or you've been told that your blood pressure
is too high.
|
| If you have two or more of these health
risks, the American Heart Association recommends
that you see a healthcare provider for a complete
assessment of your health risks. |
