Heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide, yet many people don’t realize they’re at risk until serious symptoms appear. The good news? Heart disease is often preventable. By understanding your risk factors, you can take proactive steps to protect your heart and maintain long-term health.
Understanding Your Heart Disease Risk
Several factors contribute to heart disease. Some, like family history, aging process, are beyond your control, while others—such as lifestyle choices—can be managed to lower your risk.
1. Family History
If a close relative, such as a parent or sibling, developed heart disease early (before 55 for men, before 65 for women), your own risk increases. While genetics play a role, lifestyle modifications and regular check-ups can help mitigate the impact.
2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure puts excessive strain on your heart and arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Since it usually has no symptoms, regular monitoring is crucial. Maintaining a healthy diet, reducing sodium intake, exercising, and managing stress can help keep blood pressure in check.
3. High Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is essential for your body, but too much of “bad” cholesterol, such as LDL-cholesterol leads to plaque buildup in arteries, restricting blood flow. This increases your risk of heart disease and stroke. A heart-healthy diet rich in fiber, regular exercise, and, if necessary, medication can help manage cholesterol levels.
4. Diabetes
People with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of heart disease because high blood sugar damages blood vessels. Proper diabetes management, including diet, medication, and regular monitoring, is essential for heart health.
5. Obesity and Excess Weight
Carrying excess weight—especially around the abdomen—raises the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Losing even 5-10% of body weight can improve heart health and lower disease risk.
6. Lifestyle Habits That Impact Heart Health
Several everyday choices can either strengthen or weaken your heart.
- Smoking: One of the most significant risk factors for heart disease. Quitting immediately improves heart health.
- Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle weakens the heart. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.
- Unhealthy Diet: Processed foods, excess sugar, and unhealthy fats contribute to heart disease. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports cardiovascular health.
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking too much raises blood pressure and contributes to weight gain. Moderation is key.
- Chronic Stress: Long-term stress increases heart disease risk. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and physical activity benefits your heart.
Expert Cardiology Care in Cambodia: The Bumrungrad-Intercare Collaboration
For patients in Cambodia, accessing world-class cardiology care is now easier. The Bumrungrad-Intercare collaboration brings expert heart care closer to home while ensuring seamless access to advanced treatment when necessary.
Key Benefits of This Collaboration:
- Direct consultations with Bumrungrad’s expert cardiologists at Intercare Hospital.
- Early detection with convenient access to diagnostic testing.
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
- Seamless referrals to Bumrungrad for specialized procedures when required.
This collaboration bridges the gap between accessibility and high-quality cardiology care, reducing the need for travel while maintaining exceptional treatment standards.
Take Charge of Your Heart Health
If any of these risk factors apply to you or a loved one, don’t wait—schedule a heart screening today. Early detection saves lives.
View the cardiologist schedule at Intercare here: Bumrungrad Doctors’ Schedule
Your heart health is our priority. Take the first step toward a healthier future today.