Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, especially among older adults. Despite advancements in medicine, it remains a serious health issue. Currently, one person dies from heart disease every 33 seconds in the U.S. Older adults are particularly at risk. Statistics show that nearly 25% of adults aged 75 and older have heart disease. This term covers various heart conditions, including coronary artery disease and heart failure. For adults aged 65 to 74, about 14% are affected, while 9% of those aged 55 to 64 have received a diagnosis. There are seven main types of heart disease. These include coronary artery disease, which narrows blood vessels, arrhythmias that cause irregular heart rhythms, and heart valve diseases. Other types are cardiomyopathy, heart failure, congenital heart disease, and issues with the protective sac around the heart. Despite its prevalence, heart disease is not unavoidable. Medical experts believe that understanding and managing risk factors can significantly impact heart health. Simple lifestyle changes can lower the risk, and it's never too late to start making these changes. High cholesterol and high blood pressure are among the most common risk factors for older adults. About 63% of those aged 60 and over have high blood pressure. Other risk factors include diabetes, lack of physical activity, obesity, poor diet, alcohol use, and smoking. Genetics also play a role in heart disease risk, with about half of the risk being hereditary. Knowing your family history is important. Genetic testing can help evaluate your risk and guide health decisions. Doctors advise that those at higher risk can improve their heart health by adopting heart-friendly behaviors. Regular exercise and managing blood sugar and blood pressure are crucial steps.