How to Calculate CVD Risks

In the U.S., more than half of men and nearly 40 percent of women will develop cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to a Journal of the American Heart Association study. Physicians calculate CVD risk factors based on a 10-year time frame. The calculation assesses risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and lack of physical activity. Based on the calculation results, treatment plans and lifestyle changes are recommended for patients. You can perform your own CVD risk assessment using an online calculator.

Instructions

• 1

  Locate an online CVD risk calculator. For instance, there is a CVD calculator available on the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) website.

• 2

  Enter your age and select your gender. The calculator is designed for individuals 20 and older. Don't use this calculator if you have heart disease or diabetes.

• 3

  Input your cholesterol. Enter your total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. The risk for cardiovascular disease is higher if your cholesterol is high. A total cholesterol level of 240 mg/dL or above is considered high. An HDL cholesterol level lower than 40 mg/dL is also a major risk factor.

• 4

  Select an answer for the smoker section. If you smoked cigarettes in the past year, choose yes. Otherwise choose no.

• 5

  Enter your blood pressure information. Input your systolic blood pressure. The first number of your blood pressure reading is the systolic blood pressure. For example, if your blood pressure is 140/80 (140 over 80), your systolic blood pressure is 140. Answer yes or no as to whether you take blood pressure medication. Click the "Calculate Your 10-year Risk" button.