• A heart attack occurs when one or more coronary arteries get blocked. Over time, a coronary artery can narrow due to the build-up of various substances, including cholesterol (atherosclerosis). This condition is called coronary artery disease. During a heart attack, one of these plaques can rupture and spill cholesterol and other substances into the bloodstream. A blood clot forms at the site of the rupture. Bigger clots can completely block the flow of blood through the coronary artery.
• Factors associated with increased risk of a heart attack include:
• Age - increase in age weakens the heart muscles or build-up of plagues
• High cholesterol levels
• Diabetes
• Genetics - family history increases the risk
• Heart surgery
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Consumption of tobacco in any form, either chewable or smoked
• Extreme stress

Some preventive measures to overcome heart attack risks include:

• Quit smoking
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet
• Stay active: get plenty of exercise
• Get plenty of good quality sleep
• Keep diabetes under control
• Keep alcohol intake down
• Maintain blood cholesterol at optimum levels
• Keep blood pressure in control
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Avoid stress and learn how to manage stress