Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Knowing this fact, it’s only natural to think that widespread awareness of this disease would be common. And that’s true. There’s a lot of awareness, but sadly, the death rate due to heart diseases increases annually.
There are many ways through which you can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease which is also known as coronary artery disease (CAD). Managing health behaviors. and certain risk factors such as diet, physical activity, blood pressure, smoking, and body mass index has a huge impact on the way your heart works.
Your healthcare provider may suggest heart screenings during your regular visits. It might sound scary but it’s really not. What’s scarier is having an undiagnosed heart condition that becomes fatal, causing an untimely death.
If your heart tests reveal that your results are less than ideal, it doesn’t mean you’re destined to have a heart disease. As long as you step up and implement positive health changes to your life you’re good to go.
Your doctor might suggest frequent screenings if you have been diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases such as atrial fibrillation or heart failure, or if you have a history of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. Furthermore, if you have a family history of cardiovascular disease, your healthcare provider may want to test you for heart diseases just to stay on the safe side.
Blood Pressure
- Regular exercise
- Weight control
- Less alcohol assumption
- Healthy diet
- Monitoring blood pressure regularly
Cholesterol (Fasting Lipoprotein Profile)
Starting at the age of 20, your healthcare provider may suggest taking a fasting lipoprotein every four to six years. It sounds complicated but it’s really not. It’s a blood test that measures total cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol). If you’re at an increased risk for heart disease or stroke, your healthcare provider may suggest more frequent tests.
Body Weight
During your routine visit, your doctor may want to use your body weight to calculate your body mass index (BMI). These results will indicate whether or not you’re at a healthy body weight and composition. Obesity will put you at risk for health issues such as heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation and more.
Blood Glucose
Smoking, Physical Activity and Diet

Recommended Screening Table
Recommended Screenings |
|
|
---|---|---|
Blood pressure |
|
|
Cholesterol | Every 4 to 6 years for normal risk adults and more often if you have an elevated heart disease risk | |
Weight / body mass index | During regular healthcare visit | |
Waist circumference | As needed to help evaluate heart disease if your BMI is greater than 25 kg/m | |
Smoking, diet and physical activity | Every regular healthcare visit |