Heart Health – What Can Your Family History Tell You?
Cardiovascular disease is a common problem in the United States. In fact, it is the leading cause of death in both American men and women according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Through years of research, medical scientists have determined many factors that can increase a person’s risk for developing cardiovascular disease. By determining your risk factors, you can improve your health and work to prevent the complications associated with cardiovascular diseases.
The established risk factors that affect the development of cardiovascular disease are typically divided into two major categories: those that are controllable and those that are not. Controllable risk factors include diet, activity level, and tobacco use. Those that we cannot control include age, sex, and family history. Although scientists have determined that family history does play a role in one’s risk for cardiovascular disease, they are not sure if this increased risk comes from a shared genetic predisposition or from exposure to similar environmental and lifestyle factors.
What is known, however, is that men and women whose families show a history of heart disease are statistically more likely to develop the disease themselves. Knowing your family history of the disease can help you and your doctor to evaluate the common risk factors that your family possesses and work towards healthy management. Regardless of genetic makeup, it is believed that modifying unhealthy behaviors can benefit any person looking to avoid the complications of cardiovascular disease.
If you think that you may be at risk for cardiovascular disease, consider scheduling a consultation with one of the heart care specialists at Riverside Community Hospital. Our Heart Care Institute strives to provide the highest quality of comprehensive heart and vascular care to the patients in our community. To find a cardiologist associated with our hospital, call our Consult-A-Nurse healthcare referral line today at (951) 788-3463. Our nurses are always available to take your call.
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