Hereditary factors can significantly raise risk factors for heart disease. Research findings published in a 2005 issue of the "Journal of the American Medical Association" identify a cox-2 genetic molecule that serves as a protective factor when all other genetic factors point to replicating family history. This can explain why some individuals with a familial history of heart disease do not develop the condition. According to the American Heart Association, however, the capability of the body to resist a genetic predisposition to heart disease can be explained by lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, avoiding chronically stressful conditions and smoking.
Parental Heart Disease
Genetic elements attributed to heart disease typically manifest as the replication of congenital heart defects, fatty build-ups in the arteries, high blood pressure and stroke. A person born with a congenital heart problem has a slightly higher chance of having a child with a congenital heart defect, according to the American Heart Association. The AHA also says that researchers have identified many genes thought to be related to the development of heart disease, though the impact of this on individuals is not fully understood.
Race
African Americans show the highest genetic prevalence for heritable heart-related conditions. Mexican Americans, American Indians, Native Hawaiians and some Asian Americans have also exhibited a growing prevalence towards genetic predisposition. Presbyterian Health Care Heart and Vascular Services suggests that, while it is impossible to deter genetics from elevating risks, individuals can treat the controllable risk factors. This would include eating a better diet, maintaining a regular exercise program and eliminating behaviors such as smoking.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition caused by insulin-regulation problems. This condition is genetically heritable, yet environmental factors play a considerable role. As it relates to heart disease, diabetes can elevate blood pressure and create significant problems for the vascular system. The American Diabetes Association lists additional environmental factors as cold weather, dietary factors and viruses that can compromise the body's immune system. All of these factors contribute to heart disease which is compounded by high fat intake, lack of exercise and poor lifestyle choices.
References
- "Journal of the American Medical Association"; Health: Heredity Cuts Both Ways with Heart Disease; Dannenberg MD, A; Apr 2005
- American Heart Association: Heredity as a Risk Factor; 2010
- Presbyterian Health Care: Heart and Vascular Services; Heart Disease Risk Factors; 2009
- American Diabetes Association: Genetics of Diabetes; 2010
