Despite its frequency, affecting many adults in the United States, the term atherosclerosis is recognized by only about half of Americans — less recognized than other heart-disease-related terms like cholesterol, coronary artery disease, aneurysm, embolism, HDL, LDL, and edema.
The good news is that Americans are aware of the threat of heart disease. In fact, when asked to name the greatest threat to their health, heart disease came in second, cancer being first.
Whether or not they recognize atherosclerosis as a disease, most people with risk factors for athero are aware of the threat the risk factors pose to their health, as they include smoking, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, hereditary heart conditions, and diabetes. More than 60 percent of Americans 41 years and older report having at least one risk factor that contributes to the progression of the disease.
And most respondents believe that lifestyle changes, including exercise, a healthy diet, and not smoking, can help reduce their risk for heart disease and other athero-related conditions.
Patients who have been given information by their doctors are significantly more likely to understand their risk factors that contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.
So talk to your doctor, educate yourself, and take steps today for better health tomorrow.