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Risk Reduction for Heart & Vascular Disease

Smoking/Chewing Tobacco
The American Heart Association has identified tobacco use to be the single most important risk factor for heart and vascular disease. Tobacco use causes:

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  • Artery damage
  • Increased deposits of plaque
  • Reduced HDL
  • Increased risk for blood clots
  • Elevated heart rate and blood pressure
  • Limited blood supply to the arms and legs

These same effects can also occur if you are exposed to high amounts of second-hand or environmental smoke. If you smoke or chew tobacco, stop now! Protect both your heart and your lungs. If you need help with quitting, talk with your doctor or nurse. Smoking cessation programs are available through Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Wellness Institute.

Risk factors that can be modified include:

  • High blood cholesterol is one of the major risk factors for heart and vascular disease
  • The American Heart Association has identified tobacco use to be the single most important risk factor for heart and vascular disease.
  • High blood pressure raises your risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
  • Lack of regular exercise (sedentary lifestyle) increases your risk for heart and vascular disease
  • Heart and vascular disease occurs at an earlier age and progresses faster in persons with diabetes.
  • Excess Weight can lead to high blood pressure, diabetes and elevated cholesterol levels.
  • Depression increases the likelihood that cardiovascular disease will develop and it predicts poorer recovery following a cardiac or vascular event. Depression also makes it more difficult to stop smoking and to engage in a healthy lifestyle.
  • Stress can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure and overeating.

Developed and Reviewed by: Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute
Review Date: 2/06

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