What Puts You at High Risk for Heart Disease?
Published: Sep 17, 2023
Heart disease doesn't happen overnight—it's the result of various risk factors that add up over time. Learn about the key conditions that increase your risk and how to manage them.
Contents
Metabolic Syndrome and Heart Disease
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and abdominal fat. Together, these factors increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Managing these conditions through lifestyle changes and medication can significantly lower heart disease risk.
Diabetes: A Major Risk Factor
Diabetes is a significant risk factor for heart disease, as high blood sugar can damage blood vessels. This increases the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. Maintaining good blood sugar control through diet, exercise, and medication is crucial for reducing heart disease risk in diabetic patients.

The Role of Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often coexists with cardiovascular disease, increasing the risk of heart problems. This condition affects the kidneys' ability to filter blood, leading to high blood pressure and heart disease. Managing CKD and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can help reduce these risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a group of conditions increasing heart disease risk.
High blood sugar damages vessels, increasing heart risks.
Yes, CKD increases heart disease risk significantly.
Abdominal fat, high blood pressure, and unhealthy cholesterol.
The Bottom Line
Identifying and managing risk factors is key in preventing heart disease.
References
- SCORE2 working group and ESC Cardiovascular risk collaboration. SCORE2 risk prediction algorithms
- Smith SC Jr, Benjamin EJ, Bonow RO, et al. AHA/ACCF secondary prevention and risk reduction therapy
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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