What Causes Heart Disease

Heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is a collection of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States and many people across the world. So, what are the causes of this prevalent condition?

Genetics

Genetics plays a large role in determining who’s at risk of developing heart disease. Having a family history of it or certain genetic syndromescan increase one’s likelihood of developing the condition. For example, familial hypercholesterolemia is a genetic disorder that leads to higher levels of cholesterol and increases one’s chance of developing cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, some studies have suggested that the APOE gene is associated with higher risk of coronary artery disease.

Lifestyle Factors

Particular lifestyle factors are known to contribute to heart disease. Two of the most influential of these are smoking and being overweight. Smoking causes the platelet cells in the blood to stick together more easily, leading to hardening of the arteries. That being said, it is never too late to quit, no matter how long one has smoked. Overweight individuals are more likely to develop conditions such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which are risk factors for heart disease. Excessive consumption of alcohol can also accelerate the buildup of plaque in the arteries and can ultimately lead to heart problems.

Behavioral Factors

In addition to lifestyle factors, health behaviors can also influence one’s risk of developing heart disease. Poor dietary habits such as eating an unhealthy diet high in sodium, saturated fat, and processed foods can increase one’s risk. Additionally, leading an inactive lifestyle can contribute to the likelihood of developing heart disease. It is important to maintain an adequate amount of physical activity as well as stick to regular physical activity routines.

By understanding the causes of heart disease, one can make more educated decisions regarding their health. With a combination of a healthy lifestyle and regular checkups with a healthcare professional, one can take measures to reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular disorders. Although heart disease cannot always be prevented, discussing risk factors with a healthcare professional is a great way to stay informed about one’s individual risk factors and manage them accordingly.