Heart Attack Causes and Prevention

80% of premature heart attacks, also known as a myocardial infarction (MI), are preventable, and you can help.

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Heart Attack Prevention

Helpful Highlights

What causes acute myocardial infarction (AMI, or MI)?

Coronary artery disease (CAD), also called simply heart disease, is the primary cause of heart attack. 

The coronary arteries are the vessels that wrap around the heart and supply oxygen-rich blood to it. When these arteries become blocked by a blood clot or narrowed by a buildup of plaque, the blood flow to your heart can decrease significantly or stop completely. This can cause a heart attack.

Can my loved one prevent a heart attack?

In general, there are many things your loved one can do that may prevent a heart attack. Some factors that contribute to heart attack risk are beyond their control, like genetics/family history and age. Still, giving their best effort toward reducing risk can postpone a heart attack and reduce the severity, should they have one.

How can they reduce the risk of having a heart attack?

Although we can't alter genetics or age, most of the risk factors are what's called 'modifiable' (can be controlled), and there are many ways you can help your loved one to do so.

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