Uncontrollable Risk Factors
Age
As you age, your risk of heart and vascular disease increases, simply from the natural aging processes. Men 45 years or older and women 55 years or older are at higher risk for developing heart and vascular disease. Women who have passed menopause or have had a hysterectomy may want to discuss risk factors with their health care provider. If you have questions about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy during/after menopause, consult your health care provider.
Gender
Although heart disease is still the number one killer of both genders, research has shown men to be at higher risk than women.
Family History
You may be at a higher risk if your father or brother had heart or vascular disease before age 55 or your mother or sister had it before age 65. Researchers are exploring certain substances and/or genes in the body that occur in families and are linked to high frequency of heart and vascular disease.
