The leading cause of death in Australia is cardiovascular disease (CVD), with one in four deaths being caused by stroke, heart or vascular disease. Men are over-represented in the statistics with rates of CVD around twice that of women. Men also have twice the rates of acute heart attacks. 

What are the risk factors? 

Some of the risk factors for an individual will be fixed and potentially out of your control such as your age, family history, ethnicity and social environment. But it isn’t all doom and gloom if you have a Y chromosome. It’s important to know that it is never too early or too late to make some changes in your lifestyle to prevent heart disease. 

Smoking is the number 1 risk factor for CVD with smokers being 3x more likely to die from a heart attack and twice as likely to die from a stroke. Every cigarette you smoke is doing your blood vessels harm and conversely, every cigarette you don’t smoke is reducing your cardiac risk. More people have quit than continue to smoke and you can too! 

An unhealthy diet contributes to high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol and diseases such as diabetes. The flow on effect is often obesity and an unhealthy heart. 

Did you know that fewer than 1 in 30 Aussie men eat the recommended amount of vegetables and fruit? A heart-healthy diet is low in unhealthy fats, salt and added sugar, and rich in wholegrains, fibre, vitamins, antioxidants and healthy fats.   

Physical inactivity is an important component of weight but also cardiovascular fitness. Half of Australian adults are too inactive which increases the risk of CVD. 

Being active will also help you feel more energetic, have stronger bones and muscles, and feel happier and more relaxed. Should you have a cardiac event you will also bounce back more quickly!

Start with small, realistic goals and work your way up to the recommended 30 to 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity (for example, brisk walking) most days of the week. 

Obesity is a key risk factor for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnoea and CVD. 3 in 4 Australian men are overweight or obese. Losing weight can be hard, but it can reverse some of the above health conditions and your body will thank you for it! Start with small steps and be consistent and the results will pay off. 

Alcohol in excess can contribute to weight gain, increased cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and weak heart muscles (cardiomyopathy).  Half of Australian men drink more than 4 standard drinks on one occasion. Try cutting down the alcohol percentage, space your drinks, and have a few alcohol-free days a week.  

Mental health is known to potentially worsen your risk for CVD. Anxiety, depression, stress and isolation can all increase your blood pressure and increase your chances of reaching for unhealthy convenience foods, cigarettes or excessive alcohol. The better your headspace, the more likely that you will make healthy choices. So slow down, fill your virtual wellness cup and ask for help if you need it. 

What will your GP do? 

Take a thorough history and physical exam. Order some investigations which may include blood tests for kidney markers, blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Consider an electrocardiogram (ECG) and other tests such as an echocardiogram or stress test if your risk level is considered high. We will help work with you in the managing of your risk factors and in getting additional support such as allied health professionals or a cardiologist if needed. 

There is a lot to digest there, and it can be overwhelming if you tick a few of the boxes. But just start with one thing. Aim for a bit better every day. Get help and keep moving forward, and before you know it your heart will be a bit healthier! 

The key take home messages are: 

• It’s never too early or late to manage your risk of heart disease and improve your heart health  
• You can help reduce your risk of heart disease by making positive changes to your lifestyle  
• High blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes can increase your chance of developing heart disease  
• Understand your risk by seeing your GP for a Heart Health Check. 

For more information: 

https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/heart-health-education/are-you-at-risk-of-heart-disease 

This article has been written by Dr Tim Yap.