Introduction
Cardiovascular diseases and hypertension are serious medical problems that can have a substantial influence on a person’s overall health. While certain risk factors for chronic diseases are controllable via lifestyle changes, some are not and cannot be changed. To successfully avoid and treat these illnesses, it is critical to be aware of both types of risk factors. Modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and hypertension include lifestyle decisions that can be modified to lower the risk (World Health Organization, 2023).
Cardiovascular Disease Risks
Modifiable
These might include:
- Unhealthy diet: A diet heavy in saturated fats, cholesterol, and salt can raise the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and hypertension. It is advised to have a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
- Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles lead to the development of cardiovascular diseases and hypertension (Park et al., 2020). Exercise on a regular basis can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your blood pressure, and enhance your overall cardiovascular health.
- Tobacco use: Tobacco use destroys blood vessels and raises the chance of developing cardiovascular disease. Quitting smoking can dramatically lower your chances of developing these illnesses.
- Excessive alcohol drinking can elevate blood pressure and contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases. It is advised that alcohol be used in moderation.
Non-Modifiable
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease and hypertension that cannot be modified are known as non-modifiable risk factors. These might include:
- Age: As people get older, their risk of cardiovascular disease and hypertension rises. As people become older, their chances of acquiring certain illnesses rise.
- Family history: Having a family history of cardiovascular disease or hypertension might put a person at risk. The development of these disorders is influenced by genetic factors.
- Gender: Women are typically more likely than men to acquire cardiovascular disease and hypertension (Woodward, 2019). Women’s risk significantly rises after menopause.
- Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as African Americans, are more likely than other ethnicities to acquire hypertension.
Conclusion
It is critical to understand both modifiable and unmodifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Individuals can considerably lower their chance of acquiring these illnesses and preserve good cardiovascular health by adopting a healthy lifestyle and addressing modifiable risk factors.
References
Park, J. H., Moon, J. H., Kim, H. J., Kong, M. H., & Oh, Y. H. (2020). Sedentary Lifestyle: Overview of Updated Evidence of Potential Health Risks. Korean Journal of Family Medicine, 41(6), 365–373. Web.
Woodward, M. (2019). Cardiovascular Disease and the Female Disadvantage. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(7), 1165. Web.
World Health Organization. (2023). Hypertension. World Health Organization. Web.