Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, claiming more lives than cancer, accidents, and COVID-19 combined. In fact, someone dies of cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds. To prevent this silent killer, it’s essential to understand what heart disease is, its risk factors, and when to get screened.
Heart disease encompasses various conditions that affect the heart, including coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, valve disease, and congenital heart defects. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which impairs blood vessels and increases the risk of a heart attack.
The American Heart Association recommends routine screenings start at age 20 to monitor changes in your body over time. For those at lower risk, regular check-ups should include:
* Blood pressure checks every year or more often if high
* Cholesterol testing every four to six years for normal-risk adults and more frequently for those at higher risk
* Blood glucose tests every three years starting at age 45
* Lifestyle factor discussions with your doctor during each visit
However, if you have high blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, a family history of heart disease, or other risk factors, you may need to be screened more frequently. Additional cardiovascular tests may include:
* Electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure heart rhythm and electrical activity
* Echocardiogram to assess heart structure
* Stress tests with exercise to monitor heart response
* Cardiac computed tomography angiography to create a 3D image of your heart
To prevent heart disease, focus on the following daily habits:
* Quit smoking, as it’s one of the main causes of heart disease
* Get moving with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week
* Monitor your health at home with devices and trackers
* Fine-tune your diet by avoiding saturated and trans fats and opting for nutrient-rich meals
Regular screenings and check-ups are crucial to determine your health and make changes that can lower your risk of developing heart disease. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take control of your heart health today.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/health/medical/america-silent-killer-when-get-screened