Risk factors

What are the risk factors of cardiovascular disease?

There are a number of risk factors for cardiovascular disease which may increase the risk of having another heart attack. While you don't have control over some these factors to do with your heart health, you can still actively reduce your risk in many ways.

Risk factors include:

Age. The older you are the greater risk you have of developing heart diseases. Over 83 percent of people who die of coronary heart disease are 65 or older.
Family history. Heart disease is an inherited disease. So if someone in your family has had a heart attack, you need to take particular caution.
Weight. If you are overweight, the more at risk you are. Excess weight puts constant strain on your heart, elevating your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Extra kilos around the waist are particularly risky.
Fitness. A healthy heart needs plenty of exercising. A strong heart pumps blood with less effort than a weaker one. Exercise also helps narrowed arteries, improves blood pressure, controls weight and improves blood cholesterol.
Cholesterol levels. If your cholesterol levels are too high, it can build up in your artery walls - causing your arteries to become narrowed. This may result in a blockage which can increase your risk of having another heart attack.
Blood pressure. The pressure fluctuates throughout the day, but if it is regularly higher than normal, your heart has to work harder and may become enlarged and weaken. High blood pressure also damages the artery walls making them susceptible to plaque build-up, which clogs and narrows arteries.
Stress. Too much stress can harm your heart. Your natural response to stress causes changes to your body's reactions. Your blood pressure goes up, your heart beats faster and your body releases ‘fight or flight' chemicals for quick energy.
Smoking. Smoking is the single most preventable cause of death. The more you smoke, the higher your risk of heart disease. In fact if you are a smoker, your risk of dying from heart disease is four times higher than a non-smoker⁴.
Alcohol. Excess alcohol can increase your risk of heart disease. If you drink, do it in moderation.

Are you at risk of having another heart attack?

Yes, if you have had a heart attack or stroke you are at a greater risk of experiencing another event. After a heart attack, the rehabilitation process is very important. Ask your doctor about the development of a comprehensive program to help manage the risk factors and reduce the risk of another event.

For more information: