Coronary artery disease surpasses cancer as the leading cause of death in both men and women, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Risks associated with developing coronary artery disease are broken down into two categories: risks that can be identified and changed, such as lifestyle choices, and those that cannot be altered, such as family history, ethnicity and advancing age. Many Americans have made the effort to modify unhealthy habits and attitudes regarding diet, exercise and smoking. Still, having only one risk doubles the likelihood of going on to develop heart disease. Much work remains to be done in order to mitigate the many basic risks for coronary artery disease.
History of Obesity
Overweight and obesity place tremendous stress on the body, increasing blood pressure and contributing to high cholesterol levels. Obesity is an underlying cause of diabetes and heart disease; uncontrolled blood sugar levels increase the risks of coronary artery disease. The American Heart Association reports that 75 percent of diabetics die of cardiac-related illnesses. Even when there are no other risks for coronary artery disease or stroke, overweight people are statistically at much higher risk for coronary artery disease.
High Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the force exerted on the arterial walls while blood is being pumped from the heart and through the body. If the pressure exceeds normal ranges, over extended periods of time, the walls of the coronary arteries thicken and scar, allowing fatty deposits to cling to the surfaces. Ultimately, the arteries narrow, blood flow is restricted and minimum oxygen perfusion requirements are altered, resulting in death to heart muscle tissues, or a heart attack.
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol levels are affected by heredity, age and diet. Elevations and deviations from the norm contribute to deposits in the coronary arteries which eventually cause blockages that interrupt the normal flow of blood. These blockages may restrict blood flow or break off, migrating to the brain, lungs or other vital organs, causing acute events such as heart attacks, stroke, kidney failure or vascular diseases.
History of Smoking
Tobacco use constricts blood vessels; constricted blood vessels prevent normal blood flow, altering perfusion to virtually every tissue and organ. Cigarette smoking leads to many chronic and acute illnesses and higher incidences of sudden cardiac death are linked to tobacco use as well, according to the American Heart Association.
Lack of Physical Activity
Engaging in a consistent exercise routine reduced the risk for heart disease because it controls blood sugar and lipid levels which in turn helps to control diabetes and high cholesterol levels. Exercise helps to lower blood pressure, improves circulation, increases metabolism and improves fitness levels. Inactivity rates highest among the risks associated with cardiac disease, according to the American Heart Association. Even small changes in activity and dietary selections are reported to reduce risk factors for cardiac disease.
