Coronary artery disease is not only the most common type of heart disease; it is also the leading cause of death in the United States, affecting both men and women of all races. Unfortunately, age and family history are two risk factors of this disease that cannot be prevented. However, there are many factors you can control to help prevent this disease from occurring.

High Blood Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty, wax–like substance that is present in everyone’s blood; however, when too much cholesterol is in the blood, it can build up on the walls of the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. Left alone, this condition can lead to a possible heart attack.

High Blood Pressure

A blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg or higher is considered high blood pressure, according to the National Heart, Blood, and Lungs Institute. High blood pressure or hypertension can occur in men, women and children but mainly affects those over the age of 35 and those with a family history of high blood pressure. People with diabetes and/or kidney disease are more likely to develop high blood pressure.

Smoking

Just as blood flows through your body, so does cigarette smoke. Toxins develop in the blood and can contribute to all types of cardiac illnesses. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, smoking can lead to congestive heart failure, a condition that affects approximately 4.6 million Americans and results in approximately 43,000 deaths each year.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition in which the body either stops producing insulin or cannot properly use the insulin it produces. This causes sugar or glucose to build up in the blood, which can damage the heart, blood vessels and kidneys as well as other organs. Damage to heart and blood vessels can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Obesity

65% of adults in the United States are overweight; what’s more is 30% are considered obese, according to the American Obesity Association. Obesity increases your risk for chronic heart diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and different types of cancer.

Lack of Physical Activity

A lack of physical activity leads to a higher body weight, which, in turn, can contribute to different types of heart illnesses and bone and muscle pain. Further, this can lead to an individual developing signs of depression or anxiety which can have adverse effects on one’s health.