For example, if your parents or siblings had a heart or circulatory problem before age 55, then you are at greater risk for heart disease than someone who doesn't have that family history. Also, researchers have found that some forms of cardiovascular disease are more common among certain racial and ethnic groups. For example, studies have shown that African Americans have more severe high blood pressure, and a greater risk for heart disease than whites. The bulk of cardiovascular research for minorities has focused on African Americans and Hispanics, with the white population used as a comparison. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease in other minority groups are still being studied.
Older age is a risk factor for heart disease.
In fact, about 4 of every 5 deaths due to heart disease occur in persons older than 65. As we age, our hearts tend to not work as well. The heart's walls may thicken, arteries may stiffen and harden, and the heart is less able to pump blood to the muscles of the body. Because of these changes, the risk for men of developing cardiovascular disease increases with age. Women are usually protected from heart disease until menopause and then their risk increases.