Heart Attack Risk Factors: Know Your Numbers!
Numbers offer a window into our health. Through readings of our blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose—along with our weight and waistlines—doctors can determine just how healthy we are.
When "our numbers" are up, so is our risk for heart attack. That's why it's so important to have routine health screenings, maintain a sensible diet and get plenty of exercise.
"Target Numbers" for Lowering Heart Attack Risk
From blood pressure to weight, each category in a health screening has a target number, or acceptable range*. Our Health & Wellness section offers an in-depth list. Here are a few highlights:
|
Measurement |
Acceptable Range* |
|
|
|
|
Blood Pressure |
120 / 80 |
|
|
|
|
Cholesterol |
|
|
Total Cholesterol |
Less than 200 |
|
LDL ("Bad" lipids) |
Less than 160 |
|
HDL ("Good" lipids) |
Women: More than 50
Men: More than 45 |
|
Triglycerides |
Less than 150 |
|
|
|
|
Glucose |
|
|
Fasting |
Less than 100 |
|
|
|
|
Waist measurement |
|
|
Women |
Less than 35 inches |
|
Men |
Less than 40 inches |
|
|
|
|
Body Mass Index |
Less than 25 |
* Depending on your health history, your acceptable range may be different from those listed here. Be sure to consult your physician. This site and its health-related information and resources are not intended to be a substitute for medical advice for the care that patients receive from their health care providers.
Take Action
If your numbers are higher than what is considered healthy for your age, gender and size, make lifestyle changes and seek treatment.
Lifestyle changes can include quitting smoking; eating a vegetable-rich, low-saturated fat diet; and 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. See our Health & Wellness section for an inspiring collection of ideas for taking action to beat heart disease and getting your blood pumping. “25 Ways to Keep Fit” is just the beginning!
More Information in Health & Wellness
John C. Lincoln invites you to browse our Health & Wellness section for articles and health tips regarding blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose and weight management.
Throughout this online health encyclopedia, you'll encounter ample discussion of what the above numbers mean and how to keep them in check. The following links are a few examples of what you'll find.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Blood Pressure
Cholesterol
Glucose
Waist Measurement and BMI
Smoking and Heart Disease
Diabetes and Heart Disease
Obesity and Heart Disease
Genetics and Heart Disease