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Cardiology - Heart Hero

Are You at Risk of Heart Attack or Stroke?

You can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. Start by becoming aware of your risk factors - the personal characteristics and habits that may increase your chances of having a heart attack or stroke. Some you can't change or control; some you can, by making a few changes in your daily habits or taking medicine as prescribed.

The following factors may increase your risk. Print this page and check all items that apply to you. If you check 2 or more items, see a healthcare provider for a complete assessment of your risks!

  • AGE...You are a man over 45 years old. You are a woman over 55 years old, OR you have passed menopause or had your ovaries removed and are not taking estrogen.
  • FAMILY HISTORY... Your father or brother had a heart attack before age 55, OR your mother or sister had one before age 65, OR you have a close blood relative who had a stroke.
  • You SMOKE... OR live or work with people who smoke every day.
  • Your total CHOLESTEROL... is 240 mg/dL or higher, OR you don't know your level.
  • Your HDL ("good") cholesterol... is less than 35 mg/dL, OR you don't know your HDL level.
  • Your BLOOD PRESSURE... is 140/90 mm Hg or higher, OR you have been told that your blood pressure is too high, OR you don't know what your blood pressure is.
  • You get less than a total of 30 minutes of PHYSICAL ACTIVITY... on most days of the week.
  • You are 20 pounds or more OVERWEIGHT ... for your height and build.
  • You have DIABETES... OR a fasting blood sugar of 126 mg/dL or greater, OR you need medicine to control your blood sugar.

Your Risks Are Even Greater, if you have a...

  • MEDICAL HISTORY... You have coronary heart disease, OR you have had a heart attack.
  • You have been told that you have carotid artery disease, OR you have had a stroke, OR you have a disease of the leg arteries.

Use this quiz to learn where to focus your efforts. Then, work with your healthcare provider to reduce, control or prevent as many risk factors as you can. You'll be glad you did... and so will your loved ones.

© 1999 American Heart Association, Inc.