Heart Attack

Frequently Asked Questions

6. Who is at greatest risk of a heart attack?

Certain factors make it more likely that you will develop coronary artery disease and have a heart attack. These risk factors include some things you cannot change. If you are a man over age 45 or a woman over age 55 you are at greater risk. Having a family history of early heart disease -- heart disease in a father or brother before age 55 or in a mother or sister before age 65 is another risk factor. You are also at risk if you have a personal history of angina or previous heart attack, or if you have had a heart procedure, such as angioplasty or heart bypass. (Answer continues on next page.)