Skip to main content
Healthy aging and longevity

5 ways to prevent a heart attack

Print This Page
These are the most effective ways to protect yourself.
  • Every year, about 805,000 Americans have heart attacks, 75% of which are first-time attacks.
  • The average age of a first heart attack among men: 65.
  • However, the most troubling fact about heart attacks is that many people don't take steps to protect themselves, says Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, executive director of interventional cardiovascular programs at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital Heart & Vascular Center. "Reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease is the best way to guard against heart attacks," he says. "There are simple ways to do this, but unfortunately, many people still don't follow them as they should."

    To continue reading this article, you must log in.

    Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.

    With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:

    • Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
    • 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
    • Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
    • In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
    • Interactive features like videos and quizzes
    • Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources

    SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!

    Already a member? Login ».

    Print This Page

    Disclaimer:

    As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

    No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

    Free Healthbeat Signup

    Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

    Sign Up