Heart and Vascular Disease: The Risk Factors

Cardiovascular disease refers to disorders of the heart or any of the blood vessels. These include:

Some cardiovascular diseases, like heart valve defects, congenital heart disease and aortic aneurysms, do not have risk factors. However, many cardiovascular disorders are acquired.

Heart and vascular risk factors include:

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Smoking
Family history

You cannot change your family history or your genetics. But, you can help guard against many of these risk factors by:

Not smoking
Eating a low-fat diet
Exercising regularly
Maintaining a healthy weight
Talking to your doctor about your questions and concerns

UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.

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