Cardiovascular disease (CVD) includes conditions such as heart disease and stroke. One of the biggest risk factors is high cholesterol, which can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of serious health problems.
Why it matters
- CVD is one of the leading causes of illness and death in the UK
- High cholesterol often has no symptoms – making regular checks important
- Healthy lifestyle choices can prevent or manage risks
Understanding Cholesterol
LDL (“bad” cholesterol): Can build up in arteries and increase risk of CVD
HDL (“good” cholesterol): Helps remove excess cholesterol from the body
Triglycerides: Another type of fat that can raise risk if levels are too high
Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease
Some factors can’t be changed, but many can be managed with lifestyle changes:
- Age: Risk increases with age
- Family history: Higher risk if close relatives had heart disease or stroke early in life
- High cholesterol: Too much LDL cholesterol damages arteries
- High blood pressure: Puts extra strain on the heart and vessels
- Diabetes: Can increase risk of CVD
- Smoking: Damages arteries and raises cholesterol levels
- Unhealthy diet: High in saturated fat, sugar, and salt
- Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise contributes to obesity and poor heart health
- Excess alcohol use: Can raise cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight
🌟 Tips for a Healthy Heart
- Eat smart: Choose more fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, beans, lean protein, and healthy fats (e.g. olive oil, nuts, fish)
- Reduce saturated fats: Cut back on fried foods, processed meats, and full-fat dairy
- Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days
- Stop smoking: Smoking damages arteries and raises cholesterol risk
- Limit alcohol: Too much can raise cholesterol and blood pressure
- Get checked: Ask your GP about a cholesterol test or NHS Health Check, especially if you’re over 40
💬 Community Message
High cholesterol is silent but preventable. By making small changes and getting regular checks, you can protect your heart health and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.