Millions of people in the United States are affected by heart disease. When it comes to preventing or managing it, knowing your family history is just the beginning.

“If there’s cardiovascular disease in your family, you're more likely to have it,” said Dr. Betsy Manor, a family medicine physician. “But there are actually other factors besides genetics that can modify your risk of heart disease.”

Dr. Manor joins us on this episode of the For Health’s Sake podcast to talk about these common risk factors and how lifestyle affects them. Our conversation also covers:

  • Different types of heart conditions
  • How a doctor evaluates heart disease risk
  • Lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk
  • How a doctor can help monitor heart disease

Check in on your heart health

One of the best things you can do to keep your heart healthy is to get regular preventive care checkups. Your primary care doctor can evaluate your current health, answer any questions you have and refer you to a specialist if necessary.

Whether you’re due for a checkup or just want to get your next doctor appointment on the calendar, schedule it today.