Cardiovascular risk refers to the likelihood of developing conditions such as heart attack, stroke or peripheral artery disease over time. It arises from the combined effect of multiple factors that can be modifiable or non modifiable.

Non modifiable factors include age, sex and genetics. Risk increases with age, is generally higher in men at younger ages, and clusters in families due to inherited traits and shared environments.

Key modifiable risk factors are high blood pressure, elevated LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and unhealthy diet. High blood pressure damages artery walls and accelerates atherosclerosis. Unfavorable lipid profiles promote cholesterol deposition in arteries, forming plaques that can rupture and cause acute events. Diabetes amplifies vascular injury through chronic high glucose and associated metabolic changes. Smoking contributes to endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and thrombosis. Excess body fat, especially abdominal, and sedentary behavior worsen blood pressure, lipids and glucose control.

Chronic kidney disease and certain inflammatory conditions also increase risk. Psychosocial stress, sleep problems and air pollution are emerging contributors.

Risk is commonly estimated with tools that integrate several variables such as age, sex, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, smoking status and the presence of diabetes. These models provide an absolute risk over a time horizon, often 10 years, helping to target preventive measures.

Prevention focuses on lifestyle changes including healthy eating patterns, regular physical activity, weight control and smoking cessation, combined when needed with medications to treat hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes. Early identification and comprehensive management of risk factors substantially reduce cardiovascular events and mortality.