Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; about every 26 seconds someone in the USA will suffer a coronary event and almost every minute someone dies from one. Although this disease affects both men and women, there is a common misconception that women are at less risk. The good news is that many heart attacks are preventable.

Below are some key risk factors. If you have some of these factors you may be at increased risk for having a heart attack, or stroke.

• Are a woman older than age 55 or a man older than age 45
• Have high blood pressure
• Have high cholesterol
• Smoke cigarettes
• Are sedentary and don’t exercise
• Are overweight
• Have family members (parent or sibling) has had heart disease or a stroke when thery were younger than 60 years
• Have diabetes
• Have peripheral vascular disease
• “Failed” a stress test

The Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Program at St. Luke’s and Roosevelt Hospital offers an in-depth evaluation of your risk for heart attack and stroke. Schedule an appointment to receive a consultation and management plan to help reduce your risk.