Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Risk Factors

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of death worldwide. Understanding the key risk factors helps in prevention and early intervention. CVD risk factors can be categorized into modifiable and non-modifiable factors.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

These are the factors you cannot change but should be aware of: - Age: The risk of CVD increases with age. - Gender: Men are generally at higher risk compared to women before menopause, but the risk becomes similar after menopause. - Genetics & Family History: A family history of heart disease increases risk.

Modifiable Risk Factors

These are factors you can influence through lifestyle changes or medical management: - High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Puts extra strain on the heart and increases the risk of stroke. - High Cholesterol Levels: Excess cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries. - Diabetes: Increases the likelihood of developing CVD. - Smoking: Harms blood vessels and reduces oxygen supply to the heart. - Obesity: Contributes to hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. - Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise worsens most risk factors. - Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, salt, and sugar increase risk. - Excessive Alcohol Intake: Raises blood pressure and contributes to obesity. - Stress: Chronic stress may contribute to hypertension and other risk factors.

Prevention and Management

1. Adopt a Healthy Diet:
   • Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
   • Reduce salt and saturated fat intake.
2. Regular Physical Activity:
   • At least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise.
3. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol:
   • Avoid tobacco use and consume alcohol in moderation.
4. Monitor Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, and Blood Sugar:
   • Regular check-ups help in early detection.
5. Manage Stress:
   • Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga.

Conclusion

Understanding and addressing CVD risk factors significantly reduces the probability of developing heart disease. Lifestyle modifications combined with medical supervision can promote heart health and longevity.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention

1. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000678
2. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/how-to-help-prevent-heart-disease-at-any-age
3. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements/prevent-calculator
4. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
5. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements

2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/CVD-Prevention-Guidelines
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/34/3227/6358713
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/CVD-and-Diabetes-Guidelines
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34458905/
5. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/cir.0000000000000678