All over the world c ardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death and contribute significantly to the reduction in quality of life. Multiple risk factors - some of which depend on choices made by each of us - significantly increase the probability of cardiovascular diseases to occur. Cardiovascular prevention is, therefore, one of the most important areas of preventive medicine . Knowing, avoiding and controlling risk factors These are the main individual cardiovascular risk factors that are modifiable: Tobacco consumption Drinking alcoholic beverages Unhealthy food Sedentary life Stress High blood pressure High cholesterol Diabetes (or pre-diabetes) Overweight and obesity However, each person's cardiovascular risk does not depend solely on the isolated and individual risk factors. The simultaneous presence of some of these factors increases the risk by more than just the simple sum of their individual effect. There are also environmental risk factors and family risk factors, some of which are transmissible. Medical assessment of cardiovascular risk There are medical consultations specifically aimed at cardiovascular risk and which are an important component of preventive medicine . The existence of risk factors, heart disease or another chronic disease, family history of heart disease or stroke, or the simple fact of wanting to know your individual cardiovascular risk may motivate a medical consultation for cardiovascular risk assessment. This consultation is usually carried out by doctors specializing in cardiology, internal medicine and general and family medicine, but may also involve other health professionals, such as nutritionists, physiologists, among others. The determination of risk and guidance and prescription of control and/or treatment measures consider: The individual risk factors present and their severity; Personal and family clinical history; Observation data; Results of any necessary tests. Some risk factors, such as age or family genetics cannot be changed. However, many other factors are modifiable with healthy lifestyle habits , such as adequate nutrition, regular physical exercise, smoking cessation or, in some cases, the need to start or adjust pharmacological therapy. A targeted cardiovascular risk consultation plays a critical role in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases, of which stroke and acute myocardial infarction are important examples. Identifying and controlling risk factors is essential to prevent cardiovascular diseases; Early detection and action on disease is essential to reduce complications. Remember Maintaining healthy habits from an early age and following regular medical supervision are your best contribution and your first steps towards good cardiovascular health! Author : Ana Sofia Corredoura The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
