Cardiovascular Disease CVD

CVD

CVD is a general term for diseases that affect the heart and or circulatory system, and is the leading cause of death in the U.S. for both men and women, approximately 1 million deaths annually.
Coronary Artery Disease CAD is a common form of CVD. CAD is the buildup of fatty plaque in the coronary arteries, which are located within the heart muscle. This buildup can cause a restriction of blood flow to the heart and if a blockage occurs a heart attack results. Approximately 1.1 million heart attacks occur annually in the United States, with over 90% of these occurring at rest. Heart attacks account for 52% of all CVD deaths.
It is important to be able to recognize the "7 Major (primary) risk Factors for CAD", most importantly it is important to realize that, all but one of these risk factors are completely avoidable for most individuals.

7 Major Risk Factors for CAD

1) Abnormal Blood Cholesterol Level

2) Hypertension

3) Smoking

4) Diabetes/Prediabetes

5) Family History

6) Sedentary Lifestyle

7) Obesity

It is important to get a yearly checkup complete with blood work. Check with your doctor about these risk factors and make a change. It could save your life.

-some information taken from the Cooper Institute manual '08