Understanding the Risk Factors for Heart Disease

It is always good to know if you are at risk for something, especially for something as serious as heart disease.  Since heart disease is the leading killer in the United States, it is even more important to understand the situation.  The following are some of the risk factors involving heart disease that you and your loved ones should know about.

As we age, it is natural for our risk to increase when it comes to a weakened or thickened heart muscle.  Although men are normally at a higher risk for heart disease, women, after menopause are also at an increased risk.  Because we are a nation that loves food, watching our diet should be one of the top priorities.  Poor diets with high fat, salt, and cholesterol can contribute to high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and other conditions that all increase the risk for heart disease. Lastly, poor dental health and other personal hygiene can also contribute to heart disease.

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