What can be done to prevent the injury?

Controlling risk factors is the most important way to prevent a heart attack.

Blood pressure and cholesterol levels should be controlled. For people with high blood pressure or cholesterol, there are medications that are now used to help control these problems if lifestyle changes are not effective.

Other important ways to prevent heart attacks include dietary changes, weight loss for people who are overweight, and management of diabetes. A daily exercise program is beneficial to help lose pounds or maintain weight and keep the heart healthy.

Smoking and excessive alcohol use must be avoided. Smoking more than doubles the chance of developing heart disease. It is also important to limit alcohol intake, although small amounts of alcohol each day have been shown to reduce the rate of heart attacks in some people.