Heart & Circulation

Preventing Heart Disease: Lifestyle and Medical Screening

2025-08-20 • Updated 2025-09-17

Preventing Heart Disease: Lifestyle and Medical Screening

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of illness and death worldwide. The good news is that many risk factors are modifiable — meaning you can take steps to lower your chances of developing problems.

Heart Disease by the Numbers

• #1 global killer: ~18 million deaths annually (WHO, 2024).
• 80% of premature heart disease is preventable through lifestyle changes and early detection.
• 1 in 3 deaths worldwide is due to cardiovascular disease.
• High blood pressure affects >1 billion people globally, often undiagnosed.
• Smoking doubles the risk of heart attack compared to non-smokers.
• Exercise: 150 min/week of moderate activity cuts risk of coronary disease by up to 30%.

Lifestyle Steps

Healthy Diet

• Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Limit processed foods, added sugars, and excess salt.
• Aim for portion control and balanced meals.

Regular Physical Activity

• At least 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic activity (e.g., brisk walking, cycling).
• Add strength training 2–3 times per week.
• Reduce sitting time with regular movement breaks.

Quit Smoking & Moderate Alcohol

• Stopping smoking is one of the most powerful ways to protect your heart.
• Limit alcohol to recommended guidelines or avoid altogether.

Manage Stress & Sleep

• Stress management: mindfulness, relaxation, or counselling.
• Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night.

Medical Screening & Risk Factor Management

• Blood pressure checks: high blood pressure often has no symptoms.
• Cholesterol tests: high cholesterol contributes to atherosclerosis.
• Diabetes screening: manage blood glucose early to reduce complications.
• Weight/BMI: maintain a healthy weight.
• Family history: be aware if relatives had early heart disease.

When to Seek Medical Advice

• If you have chest pain, unexplained breathlessness, or palpitations.
• If you have multiple risk factors (e.g., high blood pressure + smoking + diabetes).
• Discuss whether medications (e.g., statins, blood pressure tablets) may help lower your risk.

Related Guides

• Common Heart Medications and Their Side Effects
• Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment
• Cardiac Rehabilitation After a Heart Event
• Preventive Health — Guide Hub

Note: Educational only; not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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