Q. All the men in my husband’s family have had heart attacks at an early age. My husband takes excellent care of himself – he eats right, exercises, doesn’t drink or smoke. What else should he be doing to reduce his risk?
Answer from Dr. Andrew Carter, director of interventional cardiology research for Providence Heart and Vascular Institute: Your husband should have a full lipid profile to assess the levels of various types of cholesterol in his blood. A full lipid profile measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol), triglycerides, and other fats in the blood. Results from the profile will indicate whether your husband should be making additional lifestyle modifications or beginning drug therapy to further reduce his risk for heart disease.
He should also be screened for high levels of homocysteine, an inherited risk factor for heart disease. Homocysteine cannot be identified on routine cholesterol checks, so he likely will have to request the appropriate blood tests.
Homocysteine is an amino acid in the blood that contributes to the development of clogged arteries (atherosclerosis). Ongoing studies have shown that people with high homocysteine levels have a heart attack risk that’s three or more times greater than people with normal levels.
High homocysteine levels can be reduced through dietary interventions and vitamin supplements, so it’s very important for your husband to be screened and, if indicated, begin therapy as soon as possible.
