How to Prevent Heart Disease When It Runs in Your Family

Having a close male relative (like a father or brother) diagnosed before age 55, or a first-degree female relative (mother or sister) diagnosed before age 65, can raise your own risk by nearly 50%. 

However, genetics is only a factor in heart disease. They don't dictate your future. At Healthstone Primary Care, Dr. Hector Fabregas and our team help patients in Pembroke, Davie, and Weston, FL, understand their risks and implement effective prevention strategies.

Here’s how we advise patients with a family history of heart disease.

Screenings that go beyond the basics

The general public usually starts routine heart screenings in their 20s or 30s. However, when heart disease runs in your family, our specialist may recommend earlier or more frequent testing. These tests help us see what's happening inside your arteries before symptoms appear.

We often suggest specific screenings for high-risk patients, such as:

• Lipoprotein(a) test: This is a genetic type of cholesterol that isn't included in a standard lipid panel. High levels can lead to early heart disease.

• Coronary calcium scan: This specialized CT scan checks for buildup in the heart arteries. It helps us see if plaque is already forming.

• High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) test: This measures inflammation in the body, which is a known contributor to heart issues.

• Advanced lipid profiling: We assess the size and number of your cholesterol particles, not just the total count.

By identifying these markers early, we can create a personalized plan to manage your health.

Proactive steps to protect your heart

Even with a genetic predisposition, your lifestyle choices are immensely important. A healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of heart disease by about 50% even in those with high genetic risk. 

We encourage patients to focus on these preventive steps:

• Stay active: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. Exercise strengthens the heart muscle and improves circulation.

• Follow a heart-healthy diet: That means eating enough fiber, healthy fats, and vegetables, while reducing processed sugars and sodium.

• Monitor your numbers: Keep a close watch on your blood pressure and blood sugar. 

• Avoid tobacco: Smoking or vaping significantly damages blood vessels. If you smoke, quitting is the single most important step you can take for your heart.

If you have a family history of heart disease, the team at Healthstone Primary Care can create a personalized prevention plan for you. Schedule an appointment today.