10 Risk Factors for Heart Disease

There are many risk factors for heart disease. Some are unchangeable, but many can be adjusted through simple lifestyle changes. For those who have unchangeable risk factors, it is absolutely essential that the modifiable factors are kept under control.

Gender

• Men are at a much greater risk for high cholesterol, blood pressure and heart attacks. Women have a higher risk for heart disease after menopause, but even this risk is not as great as the risk for men.

Age

• According to the American Heart Organization, 83 percent of heart attack victims are over the age of 65.

Genetics

• Heart disease may be hard-wired into your system. If either of your parents suffered from heart disease, chances are you will too.

Race

• African, Mexican, Asian, Native Americans and some Hawaiians will also be at a higher risk for heart disease.

Hypertension

• If you have high blood pressure, you are at a much greater risk for heart disease and other complications. Talk to your doctor about ways to lower your blood pressure.

High cholesterol

• High cholesterol can be affected by age, sex and genetics as well, but can also be controlled though a healthy diet. Look for more heart healthy foods next time you're at the grocery store.

Leading a sedentary life

• Just 30 minutes of physical activity a day is enough to keep the risk of heart disease down. If you have an office job or any other sedentary type of work, introduce as much physical activity into your day as possible.

Obesity

• Excess fat, especially excess fat around the waist, is enough to drastically increase the risk of heart disease and stroke even if there are no other risk factors. Eat healthy, exercise and concentrate on getting that waistline down to size.

Diabetes

• Even if your glucose levels are under control, diabetes can greatly increase your risk of heart disease. According to the Center for Disease Control, three-fourths of those suffering from diabetes will die of some form of heart disease. Make sure to keep diabetes under control if you already have it, and maintain a health diet and weight if you have not developed it yet.

Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption

• The more tobacco you smoke or alcohol you drink, the higher your risk for heart disease. They both increase blood pressure and uncontrolled hypertension can be a one-way ticket to stroke or heart attack.

  However, small amounts of alcohol (one drink per day for women and two per day for men) can actually lower your risk of heart disease. But the American Heart Organization does not recommend non-drinkers using alcohol to lower their risk.