Anyone, including children, can develop heart disease. It occurs when a substance called plaque builds up in the arteries. These deposits consist of cholesterol and other waste products from cells. When this happens, the arteries can narrow over time, reducing blood flow to the heart.
Smoking, eating an unhealthy diet, and not getting enough exercise all increase the risk for having heart disease.
Being overweight is a risk factor for heart disease. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk. It can also help control high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and diabetes.
Drinking too much alcohol is a risk factor for high blood pressure, weight gain and heart disease. Alcohol may also make medications not work as well.
Not getting enough exercise can cause heart disease and diabetes. It can lower good (HDL) cholesterol.
Engaging in physical activity for at least 30 minutes every day of the week will help to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Eating at least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day, and limiting your salt intake to less than one teaspoon a day, also helps to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Risk factors that cause heart disease
