Smokers have twice as high a risk of heart attack as nonsmokers, and have two to four times the risk of sudden cardiac death. Smokers are also more likely to die quickly and suddenly than nonsmokers. People exposed to second-hand smoke may also have an increased risk. Among racial groups, African-Americans have the highest death rates from the disease. High blood pressure is also generally more severe among elderly African-Americans than elderly whites, leading to more cases of strokes, heart disease and kidney failure.
High cholesterol increases the risk of coronary heart disease.
This factor is even more important when other factors are present, such as diet or smoking. High blood pressure makes the heart pump more and faster, causing it to enlarge and weaken. The risk is compounded with other factors, such as obesity, smoking, diabetes or high blood cholesterol. Diabetes also increases the risk of heart disease. Stress may also contribute to the development of heart disease, because people may overeat, exercise less or smoke more when they're under stress.