Checking Heart Health Early

Elaine Demetroulis, MD,

Cardiologist, on the importance of heart-healthy checkups starting at age 20

Should heart healthy check-ups really begin at age 20? Isn’t that young?

Not at all. Screening at age 20 is not too soon - especially if there is a family history of premature heart disease. The longer risk factors go unmanaged, the higher the risk of developing heart disease.

What heart health screenings are performed at age 20?

If blood pressure (BP) is 120/80, then we would check again at least every 2 years. If it’s above 120/80, we may check more often. We do a blood test for cholesterol once at age 20, then every fourto-six years. We check weight every year – the goal is a Body Mass Index (BMI) below 25. We would also discuss smoking, exercise and dietary issues at routine appointments. What factors determine how often hearthealthy check-ups should occur?

These factors include family history of heart disease, hypertension (HTN), diabetes and whether or not the initial screening tests are normal.

What high-risk factors can affect heart health?

The major risk factors for heart disease are smoking, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity and a family history of heart disease.

What are a few of the best ways to maintain heart health?

Essentially, it is a matter of identifying and controlling modifiable risk factors. Obviously, one’s family history cannot be modified. But don’t smoke - or stop if you do. Maintain a healthy weight and dietary habits. Get regular aerobic exercise. Get regular screening for blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol levels at the recommended intervals. If you do have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, work with your doctor to keep these all as well controlled with whatever therapy is recommended by your physician – through diet and with medications when indicated.

Visit HeartHealthKC.com to complete a quick and free heart risk assessment.

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