HEART DISEASE!

Prevent Heart Disease : Major Risk Factors of Heart Disease

Cholesterol Levels : Cholesterol is a type of a lipid, a soft, fatlike substance that serves as a source of FUEL. Excessive cholesterol can cause buildup of atherosclerotic plaque. Accumulation of plaque in arteries can block blood flow and lead to a HEART ATTACK. LDL cholesterol, the so-called "bad" cholesterol, is transported to sites throughout the body, where it's used to repair cell membranes or to make hormones. LDL cholesterol can accumulate in the walls of your arteries. HDL cholesterol, the so-called "good" cholesterol, transports cholesterol to the liver, where it's altered and removed from the body.

Blood Pressure: Normal blood pressure level is defined as less than 130 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) for systolic BLOOD PRESSURE and less than 85 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure. The higher the blood pressure, the more likely it is to take a toll on the heart and on the brain. BLOOD pressure should be checked whether or not your levels are high. For normal, check once every two years. For high-normal, check once a year. If extremely high, you should get immediate care. Then get multiple measurements to know if a high level is sustained over time.

Diabetes : Another risk factor for heart disease is DIABETES , a chronic disease of insulin deficiency or resistance. Type 2 diabetes, the most common type, is associated with obesity and may be prevented by maintaining ideal body WEIGHT through EXERCISE and balanced nutrition.