What Is a Heart Attack?
6. Who’s At Risk
The people most at risk of having a heart attack are generally those that have atherosclerosis. However, atherosclerosis usually does not cause symptoms and by the time the patient is aware of a problem, it is often too late. People are more prone to heart attacks as they get older and women over 55 and men over 45 are more likely to experience one.
People who smoke are also more likely to have a heart attack, as are non-smokers who are exposed to cigarette smoke. Diabetes is another potential factor, as is obesity. A high blood pressure will also increase somebody’s risk of a heart attack, and high blood cholesterol levels will also increase the risk.
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