Prevention of Heart Attack

If you or someone else has symptoms of a heart attack, call 112 or 102. This page is about lowering risk.

Most heart attacks are linked to risk factors that can be reduced. Prevention matters for people who have never had an attack and even more for those who have had one.

Know your numbers

Have blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and weight checked regularly, from the age of 30 or earlier with a family history. Ask your doctor about your overall heart risk.

Daily habits

• Do not use tobacco in any form, and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Be active: aim for at least 150 minutes a week of brisk walking or similar activity, starting gradually.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet with more vegetables, pulses and whole grains and less salt, sugar and fried food.
• Keep a healthy weight, especially around the waist.
• Limit alcohol.
• Sleep 7 to 8 hours and treat sleep apnoea if present.
• Manage stress with relaxation and social support.

Medical prevention

• Treat high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol as prescribed.
• Take statins and other medicines if your doctor advises.
• Do not take aspirin daily for prevention unless a doctor recommends it, since it raises bleeding risk.
• Get vaccinated against flu as advised.

After a first heart attack

Cardiac rehabilitation, regular medicines and follow-up lower the risk of another event.

Know the warning signs

Learn the symptoms and teach family members to call 112 or 102 without delay.

Key point

Controlling blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar and tobacco prevents most heart attacks.

Before your appointment

Bring all your reports, ECGs and medicine strips, and a list of every medicine and supplement you take, including herbal products. Note when symptoms occurred, what brought them on and how long they lasted. Share your family history of heart disease, and your smoking, alcohol, diabetes and blood pressure history. Ask about cardiac rehabilitation and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.