The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine
The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine

Men's Health

Preventing Cardiovascular Diseases

Picture of an elderly man with his golf clubs

Primary risk factors for chronic disease:

At the top of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list of primary risk factors for all chronic diseases are: smoking, poor nutrition, and sedentary lifestyle.

Living a healthier lifestyle can help to prevent heart disease. This includes the following:

  • eliminating all tobacco products
  • adhering to a heart-healthy diet
  • following an appropriate exercise program

Eliminate all tobacco products:
You should be aware that all tobacco products are included as risk factors for chronic illness, not just cigarettes. And, although there may be medical uses from derivatives of some social drugs, such as alcohol, there is no therapeutic use for nicotine. As soon as you stop smoking, your body begins to heal itself from the devastating effects of tobacco.
Adhere to a heart-healthy diet:
One aspect of managing your heart attack risk factors includes eating a heart-healthy diet, including appropriate levels of the following:
  • calories
  • cholesterol
  • fat
  • fiber
  • sodium

To try and eliminate any confusion, the federal government has established a food pyramid and food labeling laws.

Maintaining a heart-healthy, balanced diet will help to:

  • manage stroke and heart-attack risk factors.
  • prevent or manage other chronic diseases.
  • assist in losing weight and boosting energy.
  • promote overall good health.
Follow an appropriate exercise program:
One vital step toward reducing your chances of having a heart attack is making the time to exercise. Today, with our fast-paced society, people must schedule time to exercise. Choose an activity that you enjoy doing, then talk with your physician about an exercise plan that meets your individual capabilities and needs.

An exercise program will help in the management of almost all stroke and heart attack risk factors.