Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States
and is a major cause of disability. Almost 700,000 people die of
heart disease in the U.S. each year. That is about 29% of all U.S.
deaths. Heart disease is a term that includes several more specific
heart conditions. The most common heart disease in the United States
is coronary heart disease, which can lead to heart attack.
The risk of coronary heart disease can be reduced by taking steps
to prevent and control those adverse factors that put people at
greater risk for heart disease and heart attack. Additionally,
knowing the signs and symptoms of heart attack, calling 911 right
away, and getting to a hospital are crucial to the most positive
outcomes after having a heart attack. People who have had a heart
attack can also work to reduce their risk of future events.
