Smoking

• Smoking is responsible for increased rates of heart disease in women, as well as strokes, cancer and many other illnesses. Even nonsmokers face the risks of heart disease, as the dangers from secondhand smoke in the home or at work are almost as fatal. By quitting smoking, a woman can increase her life expectancy and prevent damage to others' health as well.
  
  

High Cholesterol

• Having a high level of blood cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease. Women's cholesterol levels tend to be higher than men's from age 55 on, making this a major health risk. Having a total cholesterol of less than 200 mg/dl, HDL ("good cholesterol") levels greater than 40mg/dl, LDL ("bad cholesterol") levels less than 130 mg/dl, and triglyceride levels of less than 150 mg/dl are considered healthy.
  
  

Diabetes

• Being diabetic increases your heart disease risk by two to four times. Many people with diabetes also have other risk factors associated with heart disease, including being overweight, which increases the risk further. Those with diabetes should take precautions to lose excess weight, get regular exercise and see their doctor regularly.
  
  

Overweight

• Obesity and overweight in women poses many health problems, including heart disease since extra weight puts extra strain on the heart and other organs. Physical inactivity and excessive drinking can contribute to these problems as well. Maintaining ideal weight and getting plenty of exercise (30 minutes most days of the week) can help avoid these health problems.
  
  

High Blood Pressure

• Having high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease in many women. Women who take birth control pills, are African American, obese or have reached menopause are particularly at risk. Losing weight, exercising and keeping your diet healthy are all ways to decrease the risk of heart disease. Reducing the amount of sodium in the diet can also help.