Heart Disease Risk: What You Need to Know | Barton Health

Many of us aspire to long, healthy lives, but a concerning disconnect exists between perceived heart health and actual risk. As a cardiologist, I often encounter patients who are confident in their cardiovascular well-being despite having multiple risk factors they may not fully appreciate.

A recent survey by the Cleveland Clinic underscores this point. The findings revealed that nearly one in four Americans are unsure if they are at increased risk for heart disease, even though the majority possess at least one known risk factor – such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a family history of the condition, or a sedentary lifestyle.

The insidious nature of heart disease lies in its gradual development. Plaque can accumulate in arteries over decades, often without noticeable symptoms. By the time symptoms manifest, significant damage may already be present. This highlights the critical importance of preventative measures and early intervention in maintaining cardiovascular health throughout life.

The survey also offered encouraging insights. Most Americans recognize that achieving longevity isn’t dependent on costly treatments or exclusive wellness programs. Instead, respondents prioritized staying physically active, maintaining cognitive function, and preserving independence – all evidence-based strategies for healthy aging.

Protecting your heart doesn’t necessitate complex interventions. Foundational strategies like regular exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and ensuring adequate sleep deliver measurable cardiovascular benefits.

Even if recent life changes – such as weight gain, sleep disturbances, or increased stress – have occurred, it’s never too late to adopt healthier habits. In fact, 84% of survey respondents reported making at least one positive health improvement, whether through dietary changes or increased physical activity.

However, significant knowledge gaps persist. Many individuals are unaware of the substantial increase in heart disease risk associated with diabetes, or that physical inactivity is a major contributing factor. A concerning number of women are unaware that their cardiovascular risk increases after menopause.

As we observe American Heart Month, it’s crucial to remember that it’s never too early – or too late – to prioritize heart health. Scheduling an annual wellness exam is a vital step. Knowing your key health metrics – including blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar – provides a baseline for monitoring your cardiovascular status. Reviewing your family history can also reveal potential predispositions.

Following this, collaborate with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized prevention plan tailored to your individual needs and risk factors. Your cardiovascular health represents one of the most significant investments you can make in your future, and understanding your risk is the essential first step.

Here at Barton Health, we are committed to investing in the health of our community. As the region’s population ages, the need for comprehensive healthcare services grows. We are expanding our services across two campuses to reach more patients and better meet their evolving health needs. This includes plans to broaden medical services with the addition of an oncology center and expanded cardiovascular care, identified as crucial needs in our triennial Community Health Needs Assessment.

We also aim to grow our emergency department, increase the space within our operating rooms to accommodate modern surgical equipment and cutting-edge surgical robotics, and enhance the comfort of our patient rooms. To ensure the highest quality of care, Barton Health has partnered with Cleveland Clinic Connected advisors, leveraging their invaluable expertise throughout the design and construction of our new hospital. Their guidance will ensure every aspect of the facility is focused on delivering safe, efficient, and effective care.

David Young, MD, is a board-certified cardiologist and the Chief Medical Officer of Barton Health. The Barton Cardiology team offers cardiac care at offices in South Lake Tahoe, Stateline, and Incline Village. Learn more at BartonHealth.org or by calling 530.543.5497.

Understanding your risk factors is paramount. According to the American Heart Association, key risk factors include smoking, diabetes, obesity, and lipid abnormalities. Recognizing these factors and taking proactive steps to manage them can significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also crucial. Johns Hopkins Medicine emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity, noting that even increasing your daily step count can improve various heart health measures. Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels are essential components of cardiovascular health.