Heart Disease Risk Factors: What Should You Know?

Cardiovascular disease can develop through a combination of genetic, medical and lifestyle-related factors. Understanding these factors can help people make informed decisions about preventive healthcare.

Dr. Sarita Rao is a cardiologist associated with Apollo Hospitals, Indore. Her professional profile provides information about her work in cardiology.

What Are the Main Risk Factors for Heart Disease?

Several factors are associated with cardiovascular disease:

• High blood pressure: Persistently elevated blood pressure can damage blood vessels over time.
• High cholesterol: Certain cholesterol levels can contribute to plaque formation in the arteries.
• Diabetes: Elevated blood glucose can increase cardiovascular risk.
• Tobacco use: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease.
• Physical inactivity: Insufficient physical activity can contribute to several cardiovascular risk factors.
• Family history: A family history of cardiovascular disease may influence an individual’s risk.

How Can Cardiovascular Risk Be Reduced?

Avoiding tobacco, maintaining physical activity, eating a balanced diet and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose can help reduce cardiovascular risk. Screening and treatment should be tailored to individual circumstances.

When Should Medical Help Be Sought?

Chest discomfort, unexplained breathlessness, palpitations and dizziness may warrant medical assessment. New or persistent chest pain accompanied by breathlessness, sweating or nausea requires immediate emergency evaluation.

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Further reading: World Health Organization — Cardiovascular Diseases

This information is educational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.