A study from Public Health England found that one in 10 men over the age of 50 have a heart that is 10 years older than their actual age. In the U.S., one in three deaths is attributed to cardiovascular disease. Every 40 seconds, one American dies as a result of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease claims more lives than all forms of cancer and chronic lower respiratory disease combined. The unfortunate part is that cardiovascular disease can be prevented by adhering to a healthy lifestyle, yet many Americans are still falling victim to heart disease.
In response to the alarming number of individuals over the age of 50 being diagnosed with heart disease, there has been a health initiative created in the UK known as the Heart Age Test. The online or app survey takes less than five minutes and involves some simple yes or no questions that can help reveal the age of your heart.
Associate Professor Jamie Waterall explained, “It’s about empowering people to understand what action they can take. Cardiovascular diseases affecting the heart, brain, and blood vessels are a major cause of premature death and ill health, but they’re largely preventable.”
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Providing people with their heart age may make people aware that changes need to be made in a person’s life.
What puts you at risk
Risk factors for heart disease are split into two categories: modifiable and non-modifiable. Modifiable risk factors include obesity and smoking, while non-modifiable risk factors include gender and age.
Another interesting aspect that the app includes is the use of your postal code. Where you live also plays a part in your heart health. For example, if you live in a rural area, you are less likely to be exposed to car pollution compared to someone in the city. Furthermore, stresses vary between countryside living and city dwelling. Lastly, where you live may also be an indication of your socioeconomic status, and it is known that those who live in poorer areas tend to have worse heart health.
If you’re interested in learning how old your heart is, visit the One You website and answer the provided questions. They also have an additional resource that measures overall health, which asks questions more specific to diet, exercise, and other lifestyle habits.
In the meantime, the steps you can take to bring you closer to a healthier heart include being physically active, tackling obesity, monitoring and controlling your blood pressure and cholesterol, lowering salt consumption, improving your diet, stop smoking, de-stressing, drinking less alcohol, and getting fresh air.
Reprinted with permission from Bel Marra Health.
