Heart Disease Risk Calculator
Assess your 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on statistical models. It is not medical advice. Consult your doctor for personalized cardiovascular assessment, especially if you have existing heart conditions.
Your Heart Disease Risk Assessment
10-Year Risk
Key Risk Factors
Ideal Targets
- Total Cholesterol: <200 mg/dL
- HDL: >60 mg/dL
- Blood Pressure: <120/80 mmHg
- BMI: 18.5-24.9
- Fasting Glucose: <100 mg/dL
Heart Health Recommendations
Understanding Heart Disease Risk
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Our calculator estimates your 10-year risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) based on the Pooled Cohort Equations from the American Heart Association.
Key Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Several modifiable and non-modifiable factors influence your cardiovascular risk:
Major Risk Factors:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol levels
- Smoking/tobacco use
- Diabetes or prediabetes
- Obesity (especially abdominal fat)
- Physical inactivity
- Family history of heart disease
- Age (risk increases after 45 for men, 55 for women)
Interpreting Your Risk Score
10-year risk categories help guide prevention strategies:
- Low Risk (<5%): Maintain healthy lifestyle
- Borderline Risk (5-7.4%): Consider lifestyle improvements
- Intermediate Risk (7.5-19.9%): May need medical intervention
- High Risk (≥20%): Requires medical evaluation
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this heart disease risk calculator?
This calculator uses validated equations from major cardiovascular studies. It provides a reasonable estimate for most adults aged 40-79 without existing heart disease. However, individual risk may vary based on factors not included in the calculation.
Can I reduce my heart disease risk?
Absolutely! Many risk factors are modifiable through lifestyle changes: quitting smoking, improving diet, increasing physical activity, managing blood pressure/cholesterol, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce risk.
At what risk percentage should I see a doctor?
Consider consulting a healthcare provider if your 10-year risk exceeds 7.5%, or if you have any concerning symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath, etc.). Those with diabetes or very high cholesterol may need evaluation regardless of score.
Why isn't family history included in this calculator?
While family history is important, it's not part of the standard risk equations. If you have a strong family history of early heart disease (male relatives before 55, female before 65), discuss additional screening with your doctor.
How often should I check my heart disease risk?
Adults should assess cardiovascular risk every 4-6 years starting at age 20, or more frequently if you have risk factors. Annual checks are recommended after age 40 or if you're working to improve your numbers.