Half of heart disease risk may be inherited - cardiologists

The upcoming family holidays are a good time to discuss not only memories, but also the family's health history. The American Heart Association (AHA) reminds us of this, emphasising that genetics may play a key role in the risk of cardiovascular disease.

According to studies, up to 50% of the risk of heart disease can be linked to heredity. Knowledge of family medical history helps to assess threats in time and reduce the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke.

As Stanford University cardiologist and San Francisco Bay Area AHA board member Justin Lee noted, family reunions often involve talking about the past - and it's a good opportunity to ask important questions.

"If a great-grandmother died of a heart attack or an uncle suffered a stroke, that's important information. A family history of cardiovascular disease means increased risk for you as well," explains Lee.

Genetics is not a judgement

The doctor emphasises that hereditary predisposition is not a judgement, but a wake-up call. Even with a high genetic risk, a lot depends on lifestyle.

Refusal to smoke and vape, healthy diet, physical activity - all this significantly reduces the likelihood of problems with the heart and blood vessels. However, in some cases, high cholesterol or blood pressure can be inherited, in which case early diagnosis, regular check-ups and, if necessary, drug therapy are particularly important.

Family habits matter, too

According to Lee, health is not only influenced by DNA, but also by the environment in which a person grows up. If a family smokes, eats poorly or spends their free time predominantly in front of screens, these habits are often passed down from generation to generation and form long-term risks.

"The Vital Eight

A study published in the journal Circulation found that even people with high genetic risk can significantly reduce their risk by following the AHA's recommendations, known as the Life's Essential 8:

• healthy diet

• regular physical activity

• tobacco cessation

• adequate sleep

• weight control

• cholesterol control

• blood sugar control

• blood pressure control

What doctors advise

The American Heart Association recommends that people with a family history of cardiovascular disease:

• start collecting information from immediate family members;

• inform their doctor about inherited risks;

• have their blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar levels, and weight checked regularly;

• get routine check-ups and keep appointments;

• know the symptoms of heart attack and stroke and seek help immediately;

• learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation - most cardiac arrests happen at home.