Photo: BrianAJackson / iStock / Getty Images
A cardiologist from the Cleveland Clinic is providing valuable advice on how to reduce your cardiac age, a measure that translates cardiovascular risk into an age equivalent. Dr. Luke Laffin explains that cardiac age is determined by evaluating factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking habits, and diabetes. This metric helps individuals understand their heart health by comparing it to an age, making it more relatable than percentages.
Dr. Laffin emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes to improve cardiac age. Key recommendations include losing weight, eating healthier foods, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress. "Doing the right things from a lifestyle perspective is going to be important," Dr. Laffin said. He also suggests consulting with a doctor about medications to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which can further reduce cardiovascular risk.
For those curious about their cardiac age, online tools like the American Heart Association’s PREVENT Risk Age Calculator can provide insights, though they may require data from a healthcare provider. However, Dr. Laffin cautions that these tools are no substitute for professional medical advice.
Genetics also play a role in cardiovascular risk, making it crucial to be aware of any family history of heart disease. Knowing your cardiac age is not about labeling but understanding risk and taking actionable steps to protect heart health in the long run. If your cardiac age is higher than your actual age, it's never too late to make heart-healthy changes for a lower-risk future.