Heart attacks are a major public health concern in many countries worldwide. They often lead to physical disability or death and would severely impact a person’s quality of life.

For this reason, it is essential to identify risk factors that contribute to heart disease development and take appropriate actions to prevent it. However, what people may not realize is that the lifestyle they lead within their neighborhood can significantly increase their risk of having a heart attack.

What are heart attacks?

A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, resulting in damage or death of part of the heart muscle.

The blockage usually happens when a plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

The risk of having a heart attack can be influenced by several factors, including high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol levels, obesity, and diabetes. However, research has shown that where a person lives can also affect their heart health.

Neighborhood factors that increase the risk of heart attacks

Living in a certain neighborhood can affect a person’s lifestyle and, in turn, their risk of having a heart attack. Below are some neighborhood factors that can increase the risk of heart attacks:.

1. Lack of access to healthy food

People living in “food deserts,” or areas with limited access to healthy food options, may have a higher risk of heart disease.

The lack of healthy food options can lead to a diet high in saturated fats, salt, and sugar, which can increase the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity.

2. Lack of physical activity options

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining heart health, but for some people, access to safe and affordable opportunities for physical activity may be limited. Sedentary behavior can increase the risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases.

3. Exposure to pollution

Air pollution has been related to increased risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases.

People living in areas with high levels of air pollution may be at a higher risk of developing heart disease than people living in areas with lower pollution levels.

For some people, living in a neighborhood with low social cohesion and engagement may lead to social isolation, resulting in poor mental health. Chronic stress and poor mental health are risk factors for heart disease development.

5. High levels of crime and violence

Living in a neighborhood with high crime rates or violent crime may increase stress levels, leading to the development of heart disease.

The fear and anxiety associated with violence may contribute to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking, drinking, or overeating.

The importance of addressing neighborhood factors

Addressing neighborhood factors that increase the risk of heart disease may help reduce the burden of heart attacks. Below are some actions that can be taken to improve the heart health of people living in at-risk neighborhoods:.

1. Increase access to healthy food options

Government and community organizations can increase access to healthy food options, such as farm-to-table programs, farmers markets, community gardens, and mobile food markets.

2. Provide safe and affordable opportunities for physical activity

Building or improving parks, walking and biking paths, and community centers are some ways to increase access to physical activity options.

3. Improve air quality

Regulating industrial processes, decreasing vehicle emissions, and promoting alternative transportation, such as biking and walking, can all help improve air quality.

Community-based programs that promote social interaction can help alleviate social isolation and increase social cohesion.

5. Reduce crime and violence

Reducing crime and violence can decrease stress levels and improve overall mental health, leading to a lower risk of heart disease.

Conclusion

The lifestyle a person leads within their neighborhood is an important factor to consider when assessing their risk of heart disease.

While traditional risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels, cannot be ignored, addressing neighborhood factors is crucial in reducing the burden of heart attacks. Therefore, policy-makers, community organizations, healthcare providers, and individuals must work together to address these neighborhood factors and promote heart-healthy lifestyles within their communities.