Lipids & Prevention Clinic

Are you at risk for heart disease? 

Any of the the following risk factors may increase your likelihood of heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular diseases:

• Tobacco use. This is the most preventable risk factor. Smokers have more than twice the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
• Race. African-Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans are at a greater risk for developing cardiovascular heart disease.
• Age. According to the American Heart Association computations, about 80 % of people who die from cardiovascular disease are 65 years and older.  Age itself increases your risk of developing heart disease.
• Gender. Males have an increased risk for heart disease.
• Obesity. 
• Unhealthy diet. 
• High blood pressure (BP). High BP is defined as over 130/90 on at least two separate occasions on separate days. Target BP is 120/80 regardless of age. 
• High cholesterol levels. Low Density Lipoprotein or LDL (bad) cholesterol contributes to artery blockages or plaques. High Density Lipoprotein or HDL (good) cholesterol helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream.
• Diabetes or pre-diabetes. This condition increases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
• Lack of physical activity. Adults should get a weekly total of at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity or a combination of both.
• Family history of heart disease at an early age. Your risk of developing heart disease increases if you have a relative who developed heart disease early before the age of 55.