Know Your Risk for Heart Disease

Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality globally, but the good news is that you can modify many of its risk factors. 

In honor of American Heart Month, Dr. Asif Aziz and Guiselle Berry, FNP, at Elite Primary Care, PA, in Greenville, Texas, is taking this opportunity to help you identify your risk for heart disease. We’re happy to work with you to make modifications to reduce the risk factors that are within your control and manage any chronic conditions that may arise.

Risk factors that you can’t control

Even though you can’t change some of your risk factors, it’s important to identify them. The most common risk factors for heart disease that you can’t control are: 

Family history

Your genetic makeup plays a role in your risk for heart disease. If close relatives, such as your parents or siblings, have a history of heart conditions, it may increase your susceptibility. Understanding your family history allows our team to assess potential genetic factors contributing to heart disease.

Age 

Anyone can develop heart disease, but the risk goes up as you age.

Risk factors that you can control

Keep in mind: Just because you have non-modifiable risk factors, it doesn’t mean you’re destined to have heart disease. Focus on what you can control.

Lifestyle choices significantly influence your heart health. When assessing your risk factors for heart disease, consider the following:

Your diet

A heart-friendly diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein sources, and 100% whole grains. Eating well can contribute to a healthier heart. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods and trans fats can increase your risk of heart issues.

Your physical activity levels

It’s no secret that physical inactivity isn’t good for you, but it’s especially harmful for your heart. The American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology, and the American College of Sports Medicine all highlight that sedentary behavior and a lack of physical activity are the leading modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease. 

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week.

Your smoking status

While smoking is most often associated with lung issues, it can wreak havoc on your circulatory system. Smoking increases your risk of coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease, and stroke. 

If you smoke, consider smoking cessation as a way to honor American Heart Month. Talk to us if you need help quitting!

Your blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol are two major risk factors for heart disease. For example, elevated cholesterol levels contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where your arteries become clogged with fatty deposits. 

Regular blood pressure checks and cholesterol screenings are essential for early detection and management. If your blood pressure or cholesterol is consistently elevated, work with our team to implement lifestyle changes and, if necessary, explore medication options.

Your blood sugar levels

Diabetes and high blood sugar levels are also associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes or a family history of the condition, can help spot the early warning signs (prediabetes) before you develop diabetes. 

Proper management of diabetes through medication, lifestyle changes, and monitoring can mitigate your heart disease risk.

Your weight

Excess body weight, especially around your abdomen, is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. We can evaluate your body mass index (BMI) and help you work toward achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. 

We offer medical weight loss to help you reach your goals. The best part is that as you lose weight to help reduce your heart disease risk, you also reduce your risk of other obesity-related conditions. Win-win!

Protect your heart

This February, commit to protecting your heart against heart disease. Whether it’s adding more heart-friendly foods to your diet or exercising more, each step takes you in the right direction.

Questions? Whether you need to establish a primary care provider or want help managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, we’ve got what you need under one roof. Give us a call at 903-437-9212 or book an appointment to get started.