Medical News Today: Heart health: Are women getting incorrect treatment?

Many factors may increase a person’s likelihood of developing heart disease, including certain health conditions. However, people may reduce their risk by making lifestyle changes.Heart disease, which doctors may call cardiovascular disease (CVD), is a general term that includes conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels. It is the leading cause of death in the United States, with one person dying every 34 seconds. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in the U.S. It may cause decreased blood flow to the heart, which can result in a heart attack or heart failure.This article discusses different risk factors for heart disease, tips to reduce the risk of heart disease, and when to speak with a doctor.A note about sex and genderSex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.Risk factorsShare on PinterestRisk factors for heart disease that a person may manage include:high blood pressurehigh cholesterolobesitysmokingdiabeteseating a diet high in cholesterol, certain fats, and saltphysical inactivityconsuming too much alcoholSome experts argue that risk factors that lead to the hardening of the arteries, known as atherosclerosis, are the most important to address as it is a common cause of heart disease. Risk factors associated with heart disease that a person cannot control include:family history of CVDbeing 65 or olderbeing male, although females are more likely to die from heart diseaseRates of severe high blood pressure — a risk factor for heart disease — are disproportionately higher among Black people. Other groups of people who may have a higher risk of heart disease include: Mexican AmericansAmerican Indiansnative Hawaiianssome Asian AmericansLearn more about CVD and race.Be aware of individual risk factorsNearly half of the U.S. population has at least one of the three major risk factors for heart disease. People may calculate their risk of stroke and CVD by using the Check. Change. Control Calculator by the American Heart Association (AHA).A person should speak with a healthcare professional to find out more about their individual risk.Eat a healthy dietAccording to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025, a healthy diet may include the following:fruitsvegetableswhole grainsfat-free or low fat dairy productsprotein from foods such as lean meat, seafood, nuts, and legumesPeople should consider limiting:saltadded sugarssaturated fatsHealthy eating involves maintaining a caloric balance. A 2019 study found that restricting calories improved insulin sensitivity, blood sugar, and inflammation. However, a person should speak with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to their diet.Get regular physical activityA 2017 study found an association between more physical activity and lower mortality in people with stable CAD.