Taking control of your cardiovascular health starts with understanding your personal risk. One risk factor for poor heart health is plaque buildup called atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).
What is ASCVD?
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is an umbrella term for when fatty plaque buildup occurs on the walls of your arteries. It refers to diseases including coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular diseases (such as ischemic stroke), peripheral artery disease and more. Plaque buildup causes narrowed or blocked blood vessels, which can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Get help estimating your risk with the ASCVD Risk Estimator, created by the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association:
Making gradual changes can help.
Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by:
- Following a heart-healthy diet
- Staying at a healthy weight
- Don’t smoke
- Exercise regularly
- Manage your blood pressure
- If you drink, do so in moderation.
In addition to lifestyle changes, your doctor might recommend other ways to reduce your risk, such as medication. Have a conversation about what treatment plan works best for you, including potential for adverse effects and interactions with other medications you take.
