A large international study shows that taking your lifestyle seriously—especially after age 50—can result in more than a decade of heart disease–free living.
A major international study has now confirmed that lifestyle matters—especially from the age of 50 and beyond.
By steering clear of five key risk factors, both men and women can gain over ten healthy years free from cardiovascular disease. Here are the main findings from the research:
Smoking Greatly Increases Your Risk
Tobacco remains one of the most damaging culprits when it comes to heart and vascular diseases. Even a few cigarettes per day can damage your blood vessels and accelerate the hardening of the arteries—long before symptoms appear.
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High Blood Pressure Wears Down The Body
High blood pressure is often a silent threat, with many people unaware of it until serious damage has already occurred. It puts extra strain on the heart and significantly raises the risk of both heart attacks and heart failure.
Too Much Cholesterol Can Clog Your Arteries
Elevated cholesterol levels can cause fat to build up in the blood vessels, gradually blocking circulation. This leads to an increased risk of serious heart conditions, often without warning.
Untreated Diabetes Takes A Toll On The Heart
Type 2 diabetes, in particular, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. It damages the blood vessels and weakens the body's ability to repair itself, meaning even minor health issues can escalate quickly.
Weight Outside The Normal Range Disrupts Balance
Both overweight and underweight conditions come with health risks. Being overweight strains the heart and increases inflammation, while being underweight may signal malnutrition or underlying health issues, weakening the body’s resilience.
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Early Intervention Has The Greatest Impact
While the study focused on individuals in their 50s, the researchers noted that making lifestyle changes earlier in life can add even more healthy years. Prevention truly pays off when it starts early.
Women Gain The Most Years By Avoiding Risk Factors
According to the study, women who avoided all five risk factors developed cardiovascular disease over 13 years later and lived nearly 15 years longer than those exposed to all five. The health gap is not just significant—it’s transformative.
Men Also Stand To Gain Significantly
Men without the five risk factors enjoyed over ten extra years without heart disease and lived almost 12 years longer than peers who had all the risks. The benefits were consistent across all health indicators.
Lifestyle Changes Are The Key
Simple adjustments—like eating well, staying active, and quitting smoking—can yield enormous improvements. In some cases, medication for blood pressure or cholesterol may be needed, but many positive outcomes are achievable through everyday choices.
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Structural Support Also Matters
While individuals hold responsibility for their health, the study also points to the vital role of society. Legislation, clear public information, and regulation of harmful products are essential for making healthy decisions more accessible to all.
The article is based on information from Videnskab
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