Risk Factors and Prevention

Prevention begins with what you can discussand act on.

The goal is not perfect control. The goal is earlier awareness, appropriate care, and practical steps that can reduce risk over time.

Risk factors clinicians may consider

Blood pressure
Cholesterol and other lipid measures
Blood sugar, diabetes, and metabolic health
Tobacco and nicotine exposure
Family history and inherited conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia
Physical activity, diet, sleep, and weight where clinically relevant
Kidney health, chronic conditions, and social conditions that affect access to care

Questions to bring to a clinician

Which measurements should I understand at my next visit?
Does my family history change what we should discuss?
Which prevention steps are most important for my situation?
Would an inherited risk factor such as familial hypercholesterolemia or Lp(a) be relevant to discuss?

What this page does not do

It does not calculate your personal risk, recommend treatment, or tell you which test you should receive. Those decisions belong in a conversation with a qualified clinician who knows your history.

Explore testing conversations

Sources and limitations

Start with evidence. Keep the claims precise.

CDC: Heart disease prevention ↗CDC: Heart disease risk factors ↗American Heart Association: Life's Essential 8 ↗

Legacy Heart Health Initiative is a cardiovascular health, prevention, and early-action program in development. This page is not medical advice and does not replace a qualified clinician. If you may be experiencing an emergency, contact local emergency services rather than using this site.