The American Heart Association recommends several steps that can be taken to prevent heart attacks:
- lower your blood cholesterol level if it is high
- keep your blood pressure within healthy limits
If you smoke, STOP NOW. A smoker's chance of heart attack is greatly increased over that of a nonsmoker. Smoking is the biggest risk factor for sudden death. One in five deaths from heart diseases are credited to smoking.
Have your blood cholesterol checked. The risk of a heart attack rises as blood cholesterol increases. The risk is even greater when other risks, such as high blood pressure and smoking, are also present. A diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol raises blood cholesterol. A diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol usually lowers it.
Lack of exercise is a risk factor for heart disease. The heart is a muscle and if it is out of shape, it does not work as well as it should. Routine exercise plays a crucial role in preventing heart and blood vessel disease. Exercise at least 30 minutes 4 to 6 times a week. Seek medical advice before starting any exercise program.
People who have too much body fat are more likely to develop heart disease and stroke even if they have no other risk actors. Being overweight increases the strain on the heart. It raises blood pressure and blood cholesterol and can lead to diabetes.
High blood pressure increases the heart's workload. This causes the heart to enlarge and weaken over time. It also raises the risk of stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and heart failure. The risk of heart attack is greatly increased when high blood pressure is combined with obesity, smoking, high blood cholesterol levels, or diabetes.
For more information, contact your local chapter of the American Heart Association or call (800) 242-8721.
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