Preventing heart disease: America’s leading cause of death

Last updated: 8/10/2026

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, responsible for one out of every five U.S. deaths each year.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds, but many cases can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices and early intervention.

Understanding your risk factors, recognizing warning signs, and taking steps to protect your heart can improve your long-term health and reduce your risk of serious complications from heart disease.

What is heart disease?

“Heart disease” is a blanket term to define several types of heart conditions. In the United States, the most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD). With CAD, blood flow to the heart is constricted and this leads to a heart attack.

Other forms of heart disease include:

• Heart failure.
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms).
• Heart valve disease.
• Congenital heart defects.
• Cardiomyopathy.

According to the CDC, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.

Why is heart disease America’s leading cause of death?

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States because several common conditions and lifestyle factors can damage the heart and blood vessels over time. According to the CDC, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy eating habits are among the most significant contributors to heart disease risk.

Risk factors for heart disease

Diabetes

People with Type 2 Diabetes or Prediabetes are at a higher risk for heart disease because elevated blood sugar can damage blood vessels and the nerves that help control the heart.

Excessive alcohol use

Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure, contribute to weight gain, and increase the risk of heart-related conditions over time.

High blood pressure

Often called a “silent” condition, high blood pressure forces the heart to work harder and can damage arteries throughout the body.

High cholesterol

High cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Obesity

Carrying excess weight places additional strain on the heart and is associated with several other risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

Physical inactivity

Regular physical activity helps strengthen the heart, improve circulation, and maintain a healthy weight, while inactivity can increase cardiovascular risk.

Smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels, lowers oxygen levels in the blood, and significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Unhealthy diet

A diet high in sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and added sugars can contribute to several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing heart disease.

Signs and symptoms of heart disease

Heart disease symptoms can vary depending on the condition. Some people experience noticeable symptoms, while others may have few warning signs.

Common symptoms include:

• Chest pain or discomfort.
• Shortness of breath.
• Fatigue.
• Dizziness.
• Heart palpitations.
• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly depending on the underlying condition.

Heart attack symptoms: when to seek emergency care

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is blocked.

According to the American Heart Association, common warning signs include:

• Chest pain, pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
• Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach.
• Shortness of breath.
• Nausea.
• Cold sweats.
• Lightheadedness.

Women may experience different symptoms than men, including unusual fatigue, nausea, or discomfort in the back or jaw.

If you think someone may be having a heart attack, call 911 immediately.

How to prevent heart disease

Follow a heart-healthy diet

Following a heart-healthy diet can help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

The American Heart Association recommends focusing on:

• Fruits and vegetables.
• Whole grains.
• Lean proteins.
• Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Low-fat dairy products.

Try to limit:

• Added sugars.
• Saturated fats.
• Trans fats.
• Excess sodium.

Stay physically active

Regular exercise strengthens the heart and improves circulation.

According to the CDC, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week. Even taking three 10-minute walks each day can improve your health.

Know your numbers

Regular screenings can help identify risk factors before they become serious problems.

Talk with your healthcare provider about monitoring:

• Blood pressure.
• Cholesterol.
• Blood sugar.
• Weight and body mass index (BMI).

Don’t smoke

Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce heart disease risk. Benefits begin shortly after quitting and continue to grow over time.

Manage stress

Chronic stress can contribute to unhealthy habits and negatively affect heart health. Finding healthy ways to manage stress may help support overall wellness.

Limit alcohol consumption

According to the CDC, men should have no more than two drinks per day and women no more than one. For more, visit our Capital Journal article about alcohol awareness.

What Capital Blue Cross can do for you

We’re here to help. Check out one of our Capital Blue Cross Connect health and wellness centers for personal consultations, classes, and education. You can also visit our Care Management page, or give our Care Management professionals a call at 888.545.4512. Our experienced registered nurses and licensed social workers provide support, education, and coordination of services for all sorts of complex medical needs.

FAQ

What is the leading cause of death in the United States?

According to the CDC, heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.

What are the most common symptoms of heart disease?

Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling in the legs, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats.

Can heart disease be prevented?

Many cases can be prevented or delayed through healthy lifestyle habits such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco products, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol.

What are the biggest risk factors for heart disease?

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and family history are among the most significant risk factors.