How can I avoid atherosclerosis?

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How can I avoid atherosclerosis?

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Atherosclerosis is progressive, but it's also preventable. Nine risk factors are to blame for up to 90% of all heart attacks:

Smoking./li>
High cholesterol./li>
High blood pressure./li>
Diabetes./li>
Abdominal obesity ("spare tire")./li>
Stress./li>
Not eating fruits and vegetables./li>
Excess alcohol intake (more than one drink for women, one or two drinks for men, per day).

Not exercising regularly./li>

Experts agree that reducing your risk factors leads to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

For people at moderate or higher risk -- those who’ve had a heart attack or stroke, or who suffer angina -- taking a baby aspirin a day can be important. Aspirin helps prevent clots from forming. Ask your doctor before starting daily aspirin, as it can have side effects.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...This answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.

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