High blood pressure High blood pressure has long been linked to heart disease and especially to stroke. There is a significant body of evidence which suggests that lowering blood pressure actually lowers the risk of heart disease. There is no doubt that cholesterol plays a role in heart disease. For information about lowering cholesterol, see your physician. Smoking Everyone recognizes that smokers have higher risk of heart disease.
Doctors can help patients quit smoking.
There are different issues facing men and women with respect to heart disease. We know the risk of heart disease goes up sharply after the onset of menopause. Women should be sure to consult with their physicians to discuss the pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy.