Extensive statistical and clinical studies identified factors contributing to heart attacks and coronary disease of the heart. Your chances of developing a coronary heart disease is much greater, the more factors of risk that you have. Some risk factors that we have no control over and can not change are:

Male gender

The death rate is greater for men and their coronary attacks happen earlier in their lives than women. A women’s rate of death increases after onset of menopause but not as much as a man.

Getting older

83 percent of the people that die from coronary heart disease are age 65 and older. More than men, women who have heart failure at an older age, are more likely to die a few weeks afterward.

Race and heredity

A child whose parents had heart disease is more apt to developing it themselves. African Americans are more at risk for heart disease and have blood pressure severely higher than Caucasians.

There are several risks you can control by medicine or a change in lifestyle:

Smoking tobacco

Pipe or cigar smokers have a higher risk for stroke and heart complications, but not as much as cigarette smokers.

Having high blood pressure

When someone has high blood pressure, it increases the workload of their heart, causing it to become stiff and thicker.

Having high cholesterol

As a person’s cholesterol rises, so do their risks. If other factors are present such as smoking the risks are greater.

Being inactive

A sedentary lifestyle will contribute to risk factors for heart diseases. You can gain great benefits with regular physical activity.

Having diabetes

Diabetes can seriously affect risk factors for a cardiovascular disease. Even if sugar levels are well controlled, the risk is great for stroke and heart problems.

Being overweight and obese

Excessive body fat increases the chance of stroke and heart complications.