Heart disease is the leading cause of death around the world. In many cases, heart disease is preventable. Lifestyle, behaviors, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of heart problems.

Whether you’re young or old, by being aware of the behaviors that increase the risk of heart problems, you can take steps to prevent or reduce your risk.

1. Smoking

Smoking is the top cause of preventable death worldwide. It increases the risk of heart disease by damaging the lining of the arteries, making them more likely to become narrow and blocked. Smoking also increases blood pressure and heart rate.

If you are a smoker, quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your heart and overall health.

2. Lack of physical activity

Physical activity can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and reduce stress.

Being inactive, on the other hand, can increase the risk of heart disease, including heart attacks, and stroke.

3. Unhealthy eating habits

The food you eat can have a significant impact on your risk of heart disease. Diets that are high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can lead to high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol levels, and obesity.

Eating a healthy diet can help lower your risk of heart disease. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help improve heart health.

4. Obesity and overweight

Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of heart disease. Excess weight puts a strain on the heart and increases the risk of high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol levels.

Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

5. High blood pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that can increase the risk of heart disease. If left untreated, high blood pressure can damage the heart and blood vessels.

High blood pressure can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications.

6. High cholesterol levels

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that can be found in our bloodstream. It is essential for our body, but too much of it can increase the risk of heart disease.

High cholesterol levels can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can cause narrow and blocked arteries. A healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet and physical activity, can help reduce cholesterol levels. Medications may also be prescribed in some cases.

7. Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects how our body processes glucose. Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. Diabetes can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Managing blood glucose levels through diet, exercise, and medication can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

8. Excessive drinking

Excessive drinking can increase the risk of high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and heart failure. Drinking too much alcohol can also lead to obesity and weight gain. People who drink should do so in moderation.

Moderate consumption is defined as no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.

9. Stress

Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart disease. Stress can cause changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and hormones, all of which can have a negative impact on heart health.

Managing stress through relaxation techniques, physical activity, and social support can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

10. Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person experiences pauses in breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Treating sleep apnea through lifestyle changes and using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine can help reduce the risk of heart problems.

By being aware of the behaviors that increase the risk of heart problems, you can take steps to prevent or reduce your risk of heart disease.

A healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and stress management can go a long way in protecting your heart health.