When it comes to keeping your heart happy, a little knowledge goes a long way. Sure, heart disease is a serious topic—it’s one of the leading causes of death in Australia—but understanding the risks and taking steps to protect your ticker doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Whether you’re 45 or 75, knowing what to look out for and how to take care of your heart can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll break down the facts about heart disease, explore how to spot the sneaky symptoms and share some simple tips for keeping your heart ticking and in good shape.
Are You at Risk? Understanding Heart Disease
Heart disease can affect anyone. If you are over 45, your risk is higher. Many other factors also increase the chance of heart problems. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and being overweight.
In Australia, about 1 in 3 adults have high blood pressure. Smoking is also common, and it doubles the chance of getting heart disease. Many Australians do not get enough exercise or eat healthy food. These habits make the risk even higher.
If your family members have had heart problems, your risk increases too. Knowing these risks can help you make better choices for your health.
An estimated 1.3 million Australians aged 18 and over (6.7% of the adult population) were living with one or more conditions related to heart, stroke, and vascular disease, based on self-reported data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2022 National Health Survey (ABS 2023c)1. This includes 600,000 adults (3.0%) who reported having coronary heart disease (including angina and heart attack).
CVD was more commonly reported by men than women (7.6% and 5.8%, respectively) and increased with age, affecting around 1 in 4 (28%) adults aged 75 and over in 20221.
In 2024, cardiovascular disease accounted for almost 12% of the total burden of disease (14% males, 10% females)1, ranking fourth as a disease group behind cancer, mental and substance use disorders, and musculoskeletal conditions. Coronary heart disease was the leading single cause of burden for males and the seventh leading single cause for females in 20242.
Recognising Symptoms and Acting Quickly
Heart disease symptoms are not always easy to notice. Knowing the signs can help you act quickly. Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and feeling very tired. Some people may also feel dizzy or have pain in their arms, back, or jaw.
In Australia, heart disease symptoms can differ between men and women. Women may feel nausea or back pain instead of chest pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away. Acting quickly can save your life.
Your Family History and Heart Health
Your family history can affect your risk of heart disease. If close relatives have had heart problems, your risk is higher. This could be due to shared genes or habits. Talk to your doctor about your family history. They can suggest tests or changes to help you stay healthy.
Why Regular Heart Health Checks Matter After 45
A Heart Health Check with your GP will help you understand your risk of having a heart attack or stroke in the next 5 years and what you can do to prevent it3.
Many people may not know their risk of developing heart disease, especially since you often can’t feel risk factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol.
A Heart Health Check is a 20-minute check-up with your GP and a nurse, to assess your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
Who needs a Heart Health Check:
- All people aged 45–79 years
- People with diabetes from 35 years
- First Nations people from 30 years
Speak to your GP about a Heart Health Check if you do not already have heart disease.
What Happens During a Heart Health Check?
A heart health check is a full review of your cardiovascular system. It starts with a physical exam. Your doctor will check your pulse, weight, and blood pressure. These basic checks provide important information about your heart’s condition.
Blood tests are a key part of the check. These tests measure cholesterol and blood sugar levels. High cholesterol and high blood sugar can increase the risk of heart problems. Your doctor will also ask about your family history and lifestyle. This includes questions about your diet, exercise, and habits like smoking or drinking alcohol.
Sometimes, your doctor might recommend an electrocardiogram (ECG). This test looks at the electrical activity of your heart. It can show signs of heart disease or other problems. Each part of the check works together to fully understand your heart health.
Heart Health Indicators to Monitor
Several signs can show if your heart is healthy. These are checked during a heart health exam.
Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can damage your heart and blood vessels4. It is a major risk factor for heart disease. Many Australians have high blood pressure without knowing it. Regular checks are the best way to stay informed.
Cholesterol Levels: Cholesterol is a type of fat in your blood. Too much “bad” cholesterol (LDL) can block your arteries. This increases the chance of a heart attack. Knowing your cholesterol levels helps you take action.
Blood Sugar: High blood sugar can lead to diabetes. Diabetes is a serious risk factor for heart disease. Managing your blood sugar helps protect your heart.
Weight and Waist Size: Being overweight puts extra strain on your heart. Carrying fat around your waist is especially harmful. Losing even a small amount of weight can help your heart.
How Often Should You Get Checked?
In Australia, adults over 45 should have regular heart health checks. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, checks should start at 30. Blood pressure should be checked at least once a year. Cholesterol and blood sugar levels should be tested every 2 to 5 years.
If you have risk factors like diabetes or a family history of heart disease, you may need more frequent checks. Your doctor can help you decide what is best for you.
How much does a Heart Health Check cost?
Since April 2019, Heart Health Checks have been covered by Medicare and are free at practices that bulk bill this service.
Ask your GP about the cost of your Heart Health Check before your visit.
Simple Lifestyle Changes to Protect Your Heart
You can reduce your risk of heart disease by making a few changes. These changes are easy to start and can have big benefits for your heart health.
1. Eat Healthy Food
Choose fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are good for your heart. Avoid foods that are high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. These can raise your blood pressure and cholesterol. Cooking methods like steaming or grilling are better than frying.
2. Stay Active
Exercise is very good for your heart. Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days. Walking, cycling, or swimming are great options. Regular exercise helps keep your weight under control and lowers your blood pressure.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking damages your heart and blood vessels. It also raises your blood pressure. Quitting smoking can improve your heart health quickly. Talk to your doctor about ways to stop smoking.
4. Limit Alcohol
Too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and add extra calories. This increases your risk of heart disease. Drinking in moderation helps protect your heart.
5. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is important for your overall health. Adults should get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. Poor sleep can affect your heart and make it harder to manage stress.
Taking care of your heart doesn’t have to be a grand gesture—it’s the small, everyday choices that make the biggest impact. Whether it’s swapping out those chips for a handful of nuts or taking a brisk walk around the block, each step brings you closer to a healthier heart. Remember, age is just a number, but a healthy heart is timeless. So why not book that Heart Health Check today? Your heart has been there for you through every laugh, every tear, and every adventure—let’s give it the love it deserves. Stay heart-smart and live life to the fullest, one beat at a time!
References:
1. AIHW, Heart, stroke and vascular disease: Australian facts, 2024, https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/61010c29-cd66-46c7-9d7d-de590c0c7788/heart-stroke-and-vascular-disease-australian-facts.pdf?v=20250108111512&inline=true
2. HeartFoundation Australia, 2024, Statistics and information on coronary heart disease in Australia, https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/evidence-and-statistics/coronary-heart-disease-key-stats
3. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, 2023, Heart Health, https://www.health.gov.au/news/heart-health#:~:text=A%20Heart%20Health%20Check%20is,cholesterol%20and%20blood%20sugar%20levels.
4. Effects of high blood pressure (2014). https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/health-threats-from-high-blood-pressure
