Several callers have shared that Mr. Letterman's experience finally motivated them to get checked. While Letterman recovers, the CBS Late Show is airing re-runs. More videos 10. Diabetes mellitus - Seriously increases risk. Increases the heart's workload, causing it to enlarge and eventually weaken.
Cigarette smoking is the single biggest risk factor of sudden cardiac death.
High cholesterol - Risk of CHD rises as blood cholesterol levels increase. Well over 100 million American adults are overweight. Another 42 million are considered obese, making them more likely to develop heart disease even if they have no other risk factors. Excess weight increases strain on the heart and is a major factor in high blood pressure and diabetes. Gender - Men have greater risk for heart attack and have attacks earlier in life.