We often think of medicine as a fix for problems or injuries. When a health condition develops, then we take action. However, I believe we should proactively care for and preserve the good health we have and work towards optimum health. Preventive cardiology is a subspecialty that focuses on lowering the risk of heart disease before something happens and it may help prevent the need for invasive cardiovascular procedures in the future. Preventive care should be a practice for everyone but there are people who may be at a higher risk for heart diseases:

1. A family history of heart disease

There are hereditary issues that can increase a risk of a heart attack or heart disease, even with regular exercise and healthy eating habits. People with a strong family history of heart disease, particularly in their parents and siblings, should be screened for its risk factors, including advanced blood tests and imaging tests. A cardiologist can help you determine what tests are needed and can set up a treatment plan that can reduce risk for heart attack and other heart conditions.

2. Early-age heart disease in people younger than 60

Having a heart attack or stroke at a young age is very unusual. The standard approaches to heart disease management, treatments and testing are not sufficient because the causes of heart disease can vary greatly. Early-age heart disease patients may require more aggressive care and a treatment plan specifically tailored to their unique needs.

3. Established risk factors

Certain lifestyle choices and medical conditions can increase the risk of heart disease. On their own, high blood pressure, high blood sugar or diabetes, obesity, smoking, an unhealthy diet, or a lack of exercise can all contribute to heart disease. However, when combined, they make preventing and treating heart disease more complex. People with multiple risk factors require a team of physicians to coordinate treatment.

4. Significant cholesterol disorders

Bloodwork that shows abnormally high or low levels of LDL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or triglycerides that cannot be managed by diet or exercise may be an indication of something that requires more examination. If a cholesterol disorder is genetic, it requires cardiologists to provide a different approach to care. For example, familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder that can cause extremely high cholesterol and early-age heart attacks. Screening for this disorder can help to create an effective treatment plan.

Heart and vascular disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in America. A preventive cardiologist can conduct a cardiovascular health evaluation and help you interpret your health results, determine your risk for heart disease and provide a treatment plan for you if needed. Seeking care from a preventive cardiologist before heart disease develops can be a great investment towards a happy and heart healthy life.