High blood pressure can damage arteries over time, increasing the risk of heart disease.
High levels of LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) can lead to the buildup of plaques in your arteries, narrowing them and increasing the risk of heart disease.
Smoking damages blood vessels, lowers good HDL cholesterol, and raises blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease.
Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease. High blood sugar from diabetes can damage blood vessels and the heart.
Excess weight can lead to conditions that increase your chances of heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.
A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and sugar can increase the risk of heart disease.
Lack of exercise is a risk factor for heart disease. Regular physical activity helps control weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes.