Extensive studies of family medical histories, physical characteristics and lifestyles have identified a number of factors that increase the risk of heart disease.
Heart disease tends to be more common in certain families, in people with diabetes, in males and in people over age 50. These are factors you cannot change.
Many risks can be lessened or eliminated by altering your lifestyle and following your doctor's advice or plan of treatment.
These risk factors include:
• Cigarette smoking
• High blood pressure
• Lack of exercise
• A diet high in cholesterol (fat)
• Excessive stress and tension
• Obesity