Myths about Heart Disease
Myth
I can stop taking my cholesterol, blood pressure or diabetes medication now that my levels are at the recommended target.
FACT
Cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes medications only work while you are taking them. Taking the medication on a daily basis helps you to keep your cholesterol or blood pressure or blood sugar under control. Changes in your lifestyle such as weight loss and exercise may make it possible to lower the dose, but this must be done under the supervision of your doctor.
Myth
Women do not get heart disease.
FACT
Women usually get heart disease 10 years later than men, but women do catch up quickly. Even though female hormones are important in decreasing the incidence of blocked arteries, heart attacks can still occur. The risk for heart disease increases after menopause or after the age of 50 for women (and the age of 40 for men). However, if a woman smokes, she increases her risk for early heart disease.
Myth
I am too young to have a heart attack.
FACT
Heart disease occurs in both younger and older people. Although it is not common, heart attacks can happen when people are in their 20's and 30's, from unusually high cholesterol levels that are hereditary.
Myth
I exercise a lot and I am in good shape, so my cholesterol must be fine.
FACT
In addition to exercise, there are many other factors that affect blood cholesterol levels, such as diet, body weight, smoking, family history, age and gender. Physical activity helps improve blood cholesterol levels by increasing your HDL (good) cholesterol, maintaining a healthy body weight and improving the overall fitness of your heart and blood vessels.
Myth
Only overweight people have to worry about high cholesterol.
FACT
Anyone can have high cholesterol, regardless of weight. Being overweight is not the only risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, cholesterol levels are affected by many factors, such as what you eat, how much cholesterol your body produces and how much it gets rid of, physiological conditions and eating habits. Overall, maintaining a healthy weight is a good foundation for a healthy lifestyle.
