While there are many heart disease and stroke risk factors that you can do something about, there are others that you cannot change. The major risk factors that you cannot change are:
Age
The older you are, the higher your risk.
Sex
In women, your risk of heart disease and stroke increases after menopause.
Family and Medical History
If you have a close relative who has experienced heart disease or stroke at an early age, you are at an increased risk. In addition, women who have had pre-eclampsia during pregnancy have an increased risk.
*close relative means a parent or a sibling.
Indigenous Heritage
First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples have a higher risk of heart disease. stroke than the general population. This is because they are more likely to have high blood pressure (hypertension) and diabetes. Both conditions can cause a stroke or heart disease.
African and South Asian Heritage
People of African or South Asian heritage have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. This is because they are more likely to have high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes or other risk factors at a younger age.
Personal circumstances
Personal circumstances and environmental factors have an influence on your health. This includes things such as access to healthy food, safe drinking water, health services and social services.
Related information
Learn about other risk factors for heart disease
Learn how to live a healthier lifestyle.