When You Should Be Screened for Heart Disease

1. Age and Gender:
   
   Men aged 45 and older and women aged 55 and older should consider regular heart disease screenings. However, it's important to remember that heart disease can affect people of any age and gender.
2. Family History:
   
   If you have a family history of heart disease or have close relatives who experienced heart problems at a young age, you should consider earlier screening. Genetic factors can significantly increase your risk.
3. High Blood Pressure:
   
   If you have high blood pressure (hypertension), it's crucial to undergo regular screenings for heart disease. Hypertension is a leading risk factor for heart disease.
4. High Cholesterol:
   
   Elevated cholesterol levels in the blood can contribute to the development of heart disease. If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings.
5. Diabetes:
   
   Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of heart disease. Regular screenings are essential to monitor your heart health and take preventive measures.
6. Smoking:
   
   Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, you should undergo regular screenings and consider quitting to reduce your risk.
7. Obesity:
   
   Being overweight or obese increases the risk of heart disease. If you have excess body weight, consult your healthcare provider about appropriate screening intervals.
8. Sedentary Lifestyle:
   
   Lack of physical activity can contribute to heart disease. Regular exercise and screenings go hand in hand to maintain heart health.

1. Blood Pressure Measurement:
   
2. Regular blood pressure checks are essential, as hypertension is a silent killer that often goes unnoticed until complications arise.
3. Cholesterol Levels:
   
   A lipid profile measures cholesterol levels in the blood, including LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides.
4. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG):
   
   An ECG records the heart's electrical activity and can detect abnormal rhythms or signs of previous heart attacks.
5. Stress Tests:
   
   Stress tests evaluate how your heart responds to exercise or medication-induced stress, helping identify coronary artery disease.
6. Echocardiography:
   
   This ultrasound-based test provides detailed images of the heart's structure and function, helping diagnose various heart conditions.
7. Coronary Calcium Score:
   
   This CT scan measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries, indicating the presence of coronary artery disease.