Heart disease deaths largely tied to preventable lifestyle factors, study shows

A new analysis of Global Burden of Disease data indicates that nearly 90% of ischemic heart disease deaths worldwide are associated with modifiable risk factors such as diet, body weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and physical inactivity. The study, published in JAMA Cardiology, found that while overall mortality has declined over the past three decades, deaths linked to high body‑mass index (BMI) and elevated fasting plasma glucose have risen, particularly in the United States.

Experts note that diet plays a crucial role in heart health by influencing cholesterol levels, blood pressure and blood‑sugar regulation. Consuming foods high in saturated fat can raise LDL cholesterol, whereas diets rich in unsaturated fats, soluble fiber, fruits, vegetables and potassium‑containing produce help lower cholesterol and support healthier blood pressure. Reducing processed‑food salt intake and maintaining a healthy weight are among the key strategies to lower heart‑disease risk.

The findings underscore the public‑health importance of targeting lifestyle behaviours to prevent cardiovascular disease and suggest that greater progress is needed to curb the impact of obesity and diabetes‑related risk factors.