It’s no secret that heart disease is a serious medical issue in the United States, including Southern California. In fact, the figures and statistics on this subject are staggering. According to specialists at the Cleveland Heart Lab, 2200 people in the U.S. die from heart disease each day. On top of that, someone in the United States suffers a heart attack every 43 seconds. Perhaps the most surprising figure to some is that 50% of those that experience a stroke or a heart attack actually have normal cholesterol levels.
 
Heart disease and strokes are the leading causes of death in the U.S. Antiquated studies once indicated that the majority of strokes were suffered by 65+ year-old men. However, the truth of the matter is that an enormous amount of women and those under the age of 65 die from heart attacks and strokes each year—even more so than those older than 65.
 
In the case of women, heart attack and strokes result in more deaths for females than the next four leading causes—even cancer. Saying that heart disease is an incredibly serious and sadly common condition is a gross understatement. Those who have suffered from a heart attack or stroke in the past and those who are currently at risk should consider undergoing inflammation testing for heart disease as an essential preventative measure to sure up your health.
 
The purpose of a heart disease inflammation test is to give both you and your physician the clearest, most comprehensive view of your cardiovascular health. Determining your heart disease risk level is a foundational step in guarding your health and ensuring a long future. At the California Center of Longevity and Functional Medicine, in Woodland Hills, and serving greater Los Angeles, we are focused on keeping you healthy through prevention of illnesses in the first place, and a proactive approach to ensuring you are given the best possible chance for a long and healthy life, through smart lifestyle choices, including proper nutrition, an exercise regimen, and nutritional supplements.
 
How Heart Disease Inflammation Tests Work
A heart disease inflammation test is usually a combination of simple blood and urine testing that is sometimes supplemented with cholesterol testing. These three tests come together to offer valuable, unmatched insight to your current heart heath, as well as your risk for future heart disease. Assessing your heart disease risk factors before any potential health crises arise is smart way to safeguard your future. 
 
Understanding the Risk Factors of Heart Disease in Los Angeles
When it comes to heart disease, it often takes a major medical event—like a heart attack or stroke—to bring a patient’s cardiovascular health to his or her attention. In order to combat future heart-related episodes, the wisest course of action is to consider the risk factors that may apply to you—before tragedy strikes.
 

• Age

As you get older, the risk for developing heart disease or suffering a heart attack and/or stroke grows. But, as previously stated, more and more individuals under 65 suffer from heart disease, so it is not singularly a matter of age.
 

• Gender

Overall, males over 45 years old experience have an elevated risk for heart disease, and the same is true for women over 55 years old.
 

• Weight

Being obese or overweight takes a major toll on your body and overall health, but it particularly impacts your heart health. The risk for developing heart disease in those above a normal weight range is significantly higher. However, losing 5% to 10% of your body weight can significantly reduce your risk for heart disease.
 

• High Blood Pressure

An ideal blood pressure is generally in the range of 120/80 mm Hg when resting. It’s important to know your own blood pressure so that you are aware of any unusual spikes that may indicate a heart disease related issue.
 

• Smoking

With every five cigarettes smoked, the risk for heart disease and related episodes increases dramatically, but quitting smoking immediately reduces the potential to develop serious heart health related conditions.
 

• High Blood Cholesterol

A LDL-cholesterol level that remains less than 100 mg/dL and a non-HDL level that stays under 130 mg/dL are ideal for decreasing your risk for heart disease.
 
Of course, many other risk factors exist, including but not limited to diabetes, physical inactivity, and family history. Though risk factors may vary, the need for preemptive inflammation testing for heart disease is essential for everyone. The best way to live a long, healthy, and therefore happy life is to maintain a solid foundation of health.
 
Receiving a simple heart disease inflammation test from the California Center of Longevity & Functional Medicine in Woodland Hills, CA is an excellent first step in taking control and responsibility of your health and well-being for the long term.
 
 
Dr. Allan Kurtz specializes in creating comprehensive health and longevity plans for patients of all ages. Fellowship trained in Integrative and Functional Medicine, Dr. Kurtz is also a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and The Institute for Functional Medicine. Founded in Woodland Hills, CA, the California Center of Longevity & Functional Medicine was created to help patients throughout the greater Los Angeles area in restoring and maintaining ideal health for a lifetime. To schedule a consultation at The California Center of Longevity and Functional Medicine, contact us today online or call  818.346.1440.