Heart attacks and genetics (smoking, doctor, diet, exercise)

[3divina]

My boyfriend's paternal grandfather died of a heart attack at a somewhat young age (58). His (my boyfriend's) dad is still alive and healthy, and the family has a fairly healthy history. The heart attack was apparently a rare case. What I want to know is, could this be something that skips every other generation, i.e., the heart attack skips my boyfriend's dad and happens to my boyfriend. I know this sounds dumb but whatever.

[suzy_q2010]

Originally Posted by 3divina

My boyfriend's paternal grandfather died of a heart attack at a somewhat young age (58). His (my boyfriend's) dad is still alive and healthy, and the family has a fairly healthy history. The heart attack was apparently a rare case. What I want to know is, could this be something that skips every other generation, i.e., the heart attack skips my boyfriend's dad and happens to my boyfriend. I know this sounds dumb but whatever.

All of us are at risk to have a heart attack.Women die of heart attacks, too. Having a family history of it does increase the risk, but in your boyfriend's case maybe not so much.

There are things he can do. Keeping lean and fit with a healthy diet and exercise and not smoking are at the top of the list. If he smokes, try to get him to stop --- and you, too, if you smoke. Exercise together, and avoid the junk food. Do not drink too much alcohol. Have a primary care doctor who can advise you about testing cholesterol levels when you arrive at the appropriate age.

And I do not think you are dumb for being concerned about his health!

[bluedevilz]

Originally Posted by suzy_q2010

All of us are at risk to have a heart attack.Women die of heart attacks, too. Having a family history of it does increase the risk, but in your boyfriend's case maybe not so much.

There are things he can do. Keeping lean and fit with a healthy diet and exercise and not smoking are at the top of the list. If he smokes, try to get him to stop --- and you, too, if you smoke. Exercise together, and avoid the junk food. Do not drink too much alcohol. Have a primary care doctor who can advise you about testing cholesterol levels when you arrive at the appropriate age.

And I do not think you are dumb for being concerned about his health!

This is all terrific advice...and really the only things within the control of you and your boyfriend.

We all have modifiable and non modifiable risk factors for heart disease.

Suzy has given great advice on the modifiable risk factors.


You have brought up one of the "non modifiable" risk factors which is genetics, others being male gender and advancing age.

I would add that most experts would worry more if a first degree male relative had a cardiac event BEFORE 50 rather than at 58, and if his dad is in good health and over 50 that is also reassuring.