Cardiovascular diseases, such as a heart attack, are the leading causes of death around the world. 

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle is reduced or blocked. The blockage is usually caused by a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the heart’s arteries. 

Most heart attacks are caused by coronary artery disease, which is the most common cause of death in the United States. 

The warning signs of a heart attack include: 

• Chest discomfort that lasts more than a few minutes or doesn’t go away and returns 

• Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, and stomach 

• Shortness of breath 

Other signs of a heart attack can include: 

• Breaking out in a cold sweat 

• Nausea 

• A rapid or irregular heartbeat 

• Unusual tiredness 

• Heartburn or indigestion 

• Lightheadedness 

According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, more than 99% of people who experience a heart attack previously had at least one of four major cardiovascular risk factors that were above ideal healthy levels. These risk factors include: 

• High blood pressure 

• High cholesterol 

• High fasting glucose or high blood sugar 

• Tobacco use 

For this study, researchers analyzed medical data from more than 9 million adults in South Korea and almost 7,000 adults in the United States for up to 20 years, allowing scientists to see multiple measurements for blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and smoking exposure before a participant had their first cardiovascular issue.  

At the conclusion of the study, researchers discovered that more than 99% of the study participants had at least one risk factor at unhealthy levels before experiencing a heart attack. What’s more, scientists found that high blood pressure was the biggest culprit of the four major risk factors, affecting more than 95% of South Korean participants and over 93% of U.S. participants.  

Fortunately, these risk factors are categorized as modifiable, meaning they are potentially preventable. If high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar can be reduced, as well as eliminating the use of tobacco, there is a possibility that the risk of heart attack can be decreased.  

If you are experiencing any symptoms of a heart attack, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Cardiology Department by calling (718) 206-7100. If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 right away. 

Follow

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.