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Heart disease, also known as cardiac disease, is the leading cause of death in the United States. There are many risk factors for heart disease, including smoking and obesity.
Factors You Can't Change
Aging, being male and having a family history of heart disease all increase your risk of developing a heart condition.
Factors You Can Change
Smoking tobacco, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity and inactivity all increase your risk of heart disease.
Prevention
Prevent heart disease by monitoring your blood pressure, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, eating lots of fruits and vegetables and maintaining a healthy weight.
Considerations
Coronary artery disease, or the gradual blocking of the arteries, is the most common type of heart disease. Coronary artery disease causes heart attacks.
Warning
If you have chest pain or discomfort, dizziness or weakness, shortness of breath and pain or discomfort in your jaw, neck, back, arm or shoulder, seek immediate medical attention.
Source:
Medline Plus: Heart Diseases-- Prevention
AHA: Risk Factors and Coronary Heart Disease
CDC: Symptoms of a Heart Attack
More Information:
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