Infarktrisikofaktoren

Infarktrisikofaktoren are factors that increase an individual's likelihood of experiencing an infarction, which is the tissue death caused by a lack of blood supply. These factors can be broadly categorized into modifiable and non-modifiable.

Non-modifiable risk factors include age, with the risk of infarction increasing significantly with advancing years, and family history, where a genetic predisposition can play a role. Sex also influences risk, with men generally having a higher risk at younger ages than women, although this difference tends to diminish after menopause.

Modifiable risk factors are those that can be influenced or changed through lifestyle adjustments and medical intervention. The most significant among these is high blood pressure, or hypertension, which damages blood vessels over time. High cholesterol levels, particularly elevated LDL ("bad") cholesterol, contribute to the buildup of plaque in arteries. Diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood sugar, also significantly accelerates vascular damage. Smoking is a potent risk factor, as nicotine constricts blood vessels and carbon monoxide damages their lining. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to other risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Chronic stress is also implicated as a contributor to cardiovascular disease.

Understanding and managing these infarktrisikofaktoren is crucial for preventing heart attacks and strokes. Medical professionals assess these factors to determine an individual's overall risk and to develop personalized prevention strategies.