Can heart attack be prevented?

A heart attack happens when blood flow to part of the heart muscle becomes blocked. Plaque build-up in the arteries is influenced by blood pressure, cholesterol, nicotine exposure, diabetes, age and family history. Some factors can be changed and others cannot, so prevention reduces risk rather than removing it.

Hypertension and type 2 diabetes may have few symptoms while they affect blood vessels. Regular checks can identify them early, allowing a clinician to agree on treatment and follow-up.

Do not smoke or vape nicotine, and seek support if stopping is difficult. Choose regular movement, more vegetables and fibre, and less highly processed food and salt. Take prescribed treatment consistently, attend blood pressure and diabetes reviews, and discuss cholesterol testing with a clinician. Aim for gradual, sustainable changes rather than extreme diets or sudden intense exercise.

Call emergency services immediately for pressure or pain in the chest, especially with breathlessness, sweating, nausea, faintness or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back. Do not drive yourself if these symptoms could represent a heart attack; rapid treatment protects heart muscle.

Ask about your blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose checks, your personal risk factors, nicotine-cessation support, and which activity or medicines are suitable for you.