Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Often referred to as a ‘silent’ killer, it represents a group of conditions, like Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and heart failure, that either do not show any symptoms or, if they do, people tend to overlook them or mistake them for other non-life-threatening conditions.
This highlights the importance of understanding the causes of heart disease, which can range from a person’s age, gender, and family history to their diet and lifestyle.
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Viveka Kumar, Principal Director and Chief of Cath Labs (Pan Max) - Cardiac Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, lists ten of the most common causes and risk factors for heart disease that people should keep in mind.
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Unhealthy Diet
An unhealthy diet, particularly one high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium, can contribute to the development of heart disease by increasing the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, says Dr. Kumar. It is therefore advisable to include foods such as vegetables, fruits, and wholegrains, along with a variety of healthy protein sources, especially fish and seafood, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
Lack Of Physical Activity
A sedentary lifestyle is another major risk factor for heart disease, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Lack of regular physical activity can increase the chances of having other medical conditions that are risk factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, notes the health body.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. According to the health body, strength training is also crucial, aiming for at least 2 days a week of moderate- to high-intensity exercises.
Smoking
Not only is cigarette smoking a leading cause of lung cancer, but it is also a leading risk factor for heart disease, as it can damage the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.
High Blood Pressure
Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure can put strain on the heart and blood vessels, leading to the development of heart disease. High blood pressure occurs when the force of the blood against the artery wall is consistently too high, which damages the arteries, leading to blockages and preventing blood flow to the heart muscle. This can, in turn, contribute to a heart attack.
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High Cholesterol
High levels of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also called bad cholesterol, can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, explains Dr Kumar. However, according to the AHA, it is one of the major controllable risk factors for heart diseases.
Diabetes
As per Dr Kumar, uncontrolled diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels and the heart, increasing the risk of heart disease. High blood sugar from diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves throughout your body, including those around your heart. This damage can lead to narrowed arteries, which can restrict proper blood flow to and from the heart, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Moreover, those with diabetes are also more likely to have other conditions that raise heart disease risk, like high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Obesity
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has become a growing health challenge, affecting over 200 crore people around the world. What makes obesity and being overweight concerning is that they increase the risk of other chronic health conditions, including heart disease.
Therefore, Dr Kumar says, “Excess weight, particularly around the abdomen, can increase the risk of heart disease by contributing to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance.”
Stress
Managing stress is also vital for heart health. According to Dr Kumar, chronic stress can lead to various physiological changes, such as increased blood pressure and inflammation, which can contribute to the development of heart disease.
The AHA recommends getting regular exercise, including walks in nature, spending quality time with loved ones, getting enough sleep, keeping a positive outlook through practices like gratitude journaling, and practising relaxation techniques like meditation or listening to music, to manage stress.
Also Read: What Does It Mean To Have A Healthy Heart Rate? Expert Answers
Family History
Unfortunately, some people do not have much choice when it comes to preventing heart disease, as it often runs in the family. Dr Kumar says, “Individuals with a close family member who has had heart disease are at a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.” However, sometimes the risks can be mitigated with the help of healthy lifestyle changes.
Age And Gender
As people age, the risk of heart disease increases, and men generally have a higher risk of heart disease than women, says Dr Kumar.
This is because as we age, our hearts undergo some natural changes, including weakened heart muscles, which become stiffer and lose their ability to pump blood efficiently.
Additionally, while women generally have a lower prevalence of heart disease than men, research suggests that they have a greater mortality rate and a worse prognosis than men.
Conclusion
Heart disease is unpredictable, and sometimes there is no one reason why it develops. Therefore, it is important to assess and address each cause and risk factor and take the necessary measures to prevent them. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking or drinking alcohol. Moreover, stay in touch with your doctor to understand other risk factors and consult them for a guided plan.