The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) reports that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Certain genetic traits or lifestyle habits increase the risk of developing heart disease. Genetic traits like gender or age are risk factors that cannot be controlled. However, lifestyle habits are risk factors that can be modified.
Smoking
In 1960 the Framingham Heart Study reported that smoking increases the risk of heart disease. Since then, this finding has been repeatedly confirmed.
Obesity
The NHLBI reports that obesity is a major risk factor for developing heart disease. Obesity is a modifiable risk factor. People who are obese may be able to minimize this risk through following a heart healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise. Close follow up with a physician and nutritionist can aid this process.
Menopause
Menopause increases a woman's risk of developing heart disease. This is a non-modifiable risk factor. Women should discuss the benefits verses risks of hormone replacement therapy as an option to counter this risk factor.
Age
Age is another non-modifiable risk factor. Men over 45 years of age and women over 55 years of age have an increased risk of heart disease.
Family History
A positive family history does increase the risk of heart disease. However, reducing as many modifiable risk factors as possible can help counter this.
High Cholesterol
In 1961 the Framingham Heart Study reported that high cholesterol increases a person's risk of developing heart disease. Further research revealed that high LDL cholesterol, considered bad cholesterol, increases the risk of heart disease; however, high HDL, considered good cholesterol, helps to protect the heart. Diet, exercise and medication are used to modify this risk factor.
Psychosocial
In 1978 the Framingham Study reported that stress and depression can increase a person's risk for heart disease. People who are quickly and frequently angered have a greater risk of developing heart disease.
Diabetes
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases reports that diabetes increases a person's risk of developing heart disease. A complication of diabetes is impaired circulation which can lead to decreased blood flow to the heart muscle.
