Who is Most at Risk?
Heart disease doesn’t just affect one group of people – it can happen at any age. However, the risk increases as we age. For men, the chances of developing heart disease begin to rise sharply around age 45. Women tend to be somewhat protected before menopause, but after about age 55, their risk increases more quickly, catching up with men. Over time, lifestyle habits and genetics combine to influence whether plaque builds up in the arteries. If a close relative was diagnosed with heart disease at a younger age (before 55 in men or before 65 in women), your own risk is higher. Researchers are discovering that certain genes may also increase the risk of heart disease.2
Your environment and work life can also be risk factors. Air pollution from traffic, industrial sources, or even wildfire smoke has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease. Extreme hot or cold temperatures can put extra stress on the heart, too, particularly in people with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. Long work hours, irregular shifts, or high-stress environments can take a toll on both your heart and overall health. Jobs that expose people to toxins, secondhand smoke, or prolonged periods of sitting have also been linked to a higher risk.2
Your daily habits are the areas where you have the most control. Smoking and long-term exposure to secondhand smoke damage blood vessels, while heavy drinking raises blood pressure and cholesterol. Skipping regular exercise, consuming a diet high in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates, or carrying excess weight can all accelerate plaque buildup in the arteries. Even adequate sleep can have an impact – poor-quality rest and ongoing stress can push blood pressure and heart rate higher, increasing the strain on your cardiovascular system.2
