Heart Disease Remains Top US Killer, Men Disproportionately Affected
Heart disease remains the top killer of Americans, with over 700,000 experiencing a heart attack annually. Men are disproportionately affected, with 70 to 89 percent of sudden cardiac events occurring in them. Age is a significant risk factor, particularly after 45 for men and 55 for women.
Several factors contribute to heart disease risk. High blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, smoking, diabetes, and being overweight are well-established risk factors. Recent studies also highlight elevated GGT levels in the blood and chronic exposure to traffic noise as significant contributors. Notably, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as 'good' cholesterol, is protective against heart disease. Total cholesterol levels and the first number of a blood pressure reading (systolic) are particularly indicative of risk.
Quitting smoking can significantly reduce the risk of developing or dying from heart disease. Having diabetes mellitus increases the risk almost as much as not having it. Men are at a higher risk than women, with over 70 percent of sudden cardiac events occurring in them.
Heart disease is a pressing health concern in the U.S., with numerous risk factors contributing to its prevalence. Understanding and addressing these factors, such as quitting smoking and managing cholesterol and blood pressure levels, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and its devastating consequences.
