Did you know that stroke and heart attack are two of the leading causes of death in the world? According to the World Health Organization, over 17 million people die from cardiovascular diseases each year.
The good news is that both stroke and heart attack are largely preventable if you know your risk factors and take action to reduce them.
Find out your risk with this online test
If you’re concerned about your risk of stroke or heart attack, there are a number of online tests that you can take to assess your risk.
One such test is the American Heart Association’s “My Life Check” assessment, which is designed to help you understand your risk factors for cardiovascular disease and make a plan for improving your heart health. The assessment takes about 10 minutes to complete and asks you questions about your diet, exercise habits, smoking status, and blood pressure.
Understanding your risk factors
If you’re at risk for stroke or heart attack, it’s important to understand your risk factors so that you can take steps to reduce them. Some of the most common risk factors for cardiovascular disease include:.
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Lack of exercise
- Poor diet
- Family history of cardiovascular disease
If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack.
Some lifestyle changes that can help include quitting smoking, getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress. In some cases, medication may also be needed to help lower blood pressure or cholesterol levels.
Interpreting your results
Once you’ve completed the online test, you’ll receive a personalized report that outlines your risk factors and provides recommendations for improving your heart health.
The report may include information on your ideal blood pressure range, target cholesterol levels, and recommended lifestyle changes.
It’s important to note that an online test is not a substitute for advice from a medical professional.
If you’re concerned about your risk of stroke or heart attack, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your results and develop a plan for reducing your risk. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
Conclusion
Stroke and heart attack are serious health concerns, but they are also largely preventable. By understanding your risk factors and working to reduce them, you can improve your heart health and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
If you’re concerned about your risk of stroke or heart attack, be sure to talk to your doctor and take advantage of online resources like the American Heart Association’s “My Life Check” assessment.