Heart Disease

In the United States, the most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to heart attack. You can greatly reduce your risk for CAD through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.

Coronary artery disease can cause a heart attack. If you have a heart attack, you are more likely to survive if you know the signs and symptoms, call 9-1-1 right away, and get to a hospital quickly. People who have had a heart attack can also reduce the risk of future heart attacks or strokes by making lifestyle changes and taking medication.

About Heart Disease

The term "heart disease" refers to several types of heart conditions. The most common type in the United States is coronary artery disease, which can cause heart attack, angina, heart failure, and arrhythmias.

• Signs and Symptoms
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Heart Attack
• Other Related Conditions

Preventing Heart Disease

You can help prevent heart disease by making healthy choices and managing any medical conditions you may have.

• Get moving: physical activity makes your heart stronger.
• Halt the salt: compare labels and choose less sodium in the foods you and your family eat.
• Eat lean and green: Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins (fish, chicken, turkey) and low-fat dairy, and limit the red meat and butter.
• Get your blood pressure checked and follow your doctor’s treatment plan if you have high blood pressure.
• Drink in moderation: Alcohol can raise your risk for high blood pressure. Women should have no more than one drink per day, and men should have no more than two drinks per day.
• Quit smoking.

More Information

• What You Can Do
• Guidelines and Recommendations

Related Fact Sheets from the CDC:

• Heart Disease Fact Sheet
• Men and Heart Disease
• Women and Heart Disease
• Atrial Fibrillation Fact Sheet
• Heart Failure Fact Sheet
• Know the Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack