According to studies conducted at Northwestern University, this could be a true statement. Data collected on both men and women show that individuals with two or more of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease by age 55 have a higher risk for myocardial infarction or stroke.
While genetics play a major role in determining cardiac health, maintaining two or more of the major risk factors (diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking) over extended time will increase the likelihood and could predict a high lifetime risk for cardiac injury or stroke.
Taken from an article written in the Advisory Board Company website:
Having just two major risk factors for cardiovascular disease—such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and smoking—at age 55 may predict a high lifetime risk of cardiac death, according to a recent NEJM study.
Decreasing those risk factors before middle age can make a significant difference for both men and women alike. A regular physical examination with appropriate blood tests to monitor for these risk factors is key and the first step to improving the likelihood of cardiac injury.
With a national focus on diet, exercise and overall health, it is easy to find programs to support goals on an individual basis. Eliminating smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is one of the best ways to begin moving down the road to overall health. Diet and exercise have also been proven to eliminate many of the cardiac risk factors listed above.
Following through with making these important steps can assist in attaining a better state of wellness by age 55.
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