Question

List seven risk factors and preventive actions for cardiovascular disease.

Answer 1

1. High blood pressure: The risk of developing cardiovascular disease increases with high blood pressure. Preventive actions include maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress levels.

2. High cholesterol levels: Elevated levels of cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Preventive actions include consuming a low-fat, high-fiber diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking.

3. Diabetes: Having diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Preventive actions include managing blood sugar levels through medication, regular exercise, and adopting a healthy diet.

4. Tobacco use: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke damages blood vessels and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Preventive actions include quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke.

5. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, all of which contribute to cardiovascular disease. Preventive actions include maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet.

6. Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Preventive actions include engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, biking, or swimming, for at least 150 minutes per week.

7. Unhealthy diet: Consuming a diet that is high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars contributes to cardiovascular disease. Preventive actions include adopting a healthy eating pattern, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.