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About 1 in every 12 Canadians is living with heart disease1
Men are twice as likely to suffer a heart attack than women 2
Women usually get their first diagnosis of heart disease at age 65 to 74, Men at age 55 to 64 2
Risk factors for heart disease include:
- Age. Heart disease risk increases with age. This is especially so for men over the age of 45, women over the age of 55 and/or women who have gone through menopause
- Family history. If anyone in your immediate family (siblings or parents) has had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a heart attack, your risk of heart disease is higher
- Build. People whose bodies are shaped more like apples, with fat accumulating at the waistline or higher, have a higher risk of heart disease
What can be done to reduce the risk of heart disease
- Early detection and treatment. Speak with your doctor or healthcare professional about your risk factors for heart disease.
- Reduce or quit smoking. This not only improves your chances of escaping heart disease, but many other health problems.
- Consume alcohol in moderation. Drinking too much places you at risk for multiple health issues, including heart disease.
- Exercise. You don’t need to run a marathon but stay active. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day.
- Eat healthy. Canada’s Food Guide is a great place to start. In general stick to fresh, unprocessed foods.
- Stay at a healthy weight. Achieve and maintain a weight that is healthy for you by adjusting your diet and staying active.
- Manage stress. Learn how to manage your stress, and cope with problems in healthy ways.