As American Heart Month comes to a close, maintaining a healthy weight, diet, and exercise can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. However, early detection is crucial, even for those with normal blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Dr. Vivek Goswami, a cardiologist at Heart Hospital of Austin, emphasizes that cholesterol isn’t the only factor in clogging arteries. A balance between cholesterol, blood pressure, and individual factors plays a significant role in determining risk. “We’re not just looking at one number, we’re building a picture to figure out what the risk is,” he explains.
Calcium buildup in arteries can lead to heart attacks and other complications. Dr. Goswami recommends screening with low-contrast CT scans to identify calcified plaque, which can help detect early disease.
The first step in screenings is knowing your risk. Established risk factors include high cholesterol, blood pressure, sugar levels, family history, smoking, poor diet, and exercise. Maintaining a heart-healthy diet and incorporating regular aerobic exercise into daily life can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.
“Screening for the actual process is very important,” Dr. Goswami emphasizes. “We often don’t screen for heart disease until it’s too late.” By understanding your risk, maintaining healthy habits, and screening for early detection, individuals can take control of their heart health and reduce their risk of heart disease.
Source: https://www.fox7austin.com/news/austin-doctor-weighs-how-reduce-your-risk-heart-disease