A heart attack can occur for a variety of reasons. The best way to prevent a heart attack is by having regular check ups with your doctor and by trying to live a healthy lifestyle.  Below are some common factors that can contribute to an increased risk for heart attack:

• persons with inherited hypertension (high blood pressure)
• persons with a family history of heart disease (especially with onset before age 55)
• persons with type 1 diabetes
• people who are under a lot of stress
• people who drink too much alcohol
• persons overweight by 30 percent or more
• persons who eat a diet high in saturated fat

If you feel you have a higher risk for any of these heart attack causes contact your doctor for more information.