Heart Disease Statistics - About Half of All Adults Have at Least One Major Risk Factor

Among the leading causes of death, heart disease is responsible for the most deaths worldwide for both men and women of all races. It is the number one cause of death in the Unites States and the second leading cause of death in Canada. Every year more than half a million people die of heart disease in North America — over 607,000 people in the USA and 48,000 in Canada

Heart disease is caused by a variety of conditions that affect the cardiovascular system. Usually these conditions will cause a disturbance in the way blood flows through the heart and blood vessels.

There are several risk factors. Eating a poor diet high in unhealthy fats results in a 30% increased likelihood of developing heart disease.

High levels of stress or prolonged stress may result in increased blood pressure, or disturbances in heart rhythm which increases the risk of developing heart disease.

Depression — people with depression are 25 to 40 percent more likely to die from heart disease than people without depression.

Your family history is also a risk factor. Your risk of heart disease is higher if any immediate family members (parents, brothers, sisters, etc.) have had a heart attack, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure...(click for more)