Heart Disease Prevention

Is heart disease preventable? 

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. While some risk factors are out of your control - like age, family history or ethnicity - many are within your power to change. By making healthy lifestyle choices and staying on top of regular screenings, you can lower your risk of developing heart disease or having a heart attack. 

How to prevent heart disease 

The best way to prevent heart disease is by adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. Even small changes can have a big impact on your long-term health. 

• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling strengthen your heart and improve circulation. 
• Maintain a healthy weight: Managing your weight reduces strain on your heart and lowers your risk of related conditions. 
• Eat heart-healthy foods: Choose fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados and nuts. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks and foods high in saturated or trans fats. 
• Manage stress: Relaxation techniques, mindfulness or counseling can help protect your heart. 
• Avoid smoking, drugs and excessive alcohol: These habits can increase your risk of heart disease. 
• Talk to your doctor about aspirin: In some cases, older adults at high risk of heart attack may benefit from a low-dose aspirin. Always consult your doctor before starting an aspirin regimen. 
• Get regular health screenings: Monitoring your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar helps catch issues early and lowers your risk. 

Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health heart specialist or your primary care provider to learn more about protecting your heart health. 

High blood pressure and heart disease 

High blood pressure (hypertension) can silently damage your arteries over time, making your heart work harder. This increases your risk of a heart attack, heart failure or stroke. Because you can’t feel high blood pressure, regular screenings are essential. 

Learn more about high blood pressure and your heart health. 

Cholesterol and heart disease 

Excess “bad” cholesterol (LDL) can cause plaque buildup in your arteries, narrowing blood flow and leading to heart disease. Keeping your cholesterol at healthy levels is key to prevention. Ask your doctor about cholesterol screenings and lifestyle changes to improve your numbers. 

Learn more about cholesterol management. 

Diabetes and heart disease 

People with diabetes face a higher risk of heart disease. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels over time, leading to complications like heart attack and stroke. By preventing or managing diabetes, you can also reduce your risk of heart disease. 

Learn more about diabetes and heart health. 

Take charge of your heart health 

Heart disease prevention starts with daily choices. Whether it’s exercising more, eating better or keeping up with health screenings, you have the power to protect your heart. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule an appointment with a Banner Health heart specialist today.