Coronary ischemic heart disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. To deal with it, it is important to prioritize prevention through regular age-appropriate cardiac check-ups, thus reducing the risk factors that can be controlled. Dr. César Vecco, cardiologist at our clinic, provides us with valuable information on how to maintain proper cardiovascular health.

When should cardiac check-ups be started?

Cardiological check-ups should begin at an early age, as early detection can save our lives. They should be performed as follows:

Between 20 and 30 years of age

The first check-up should be performed between this age range, in people with no symptoms and no family history of cardiovascular disease.

Recommendations:

• Have a laboratory test every 3 years.
• Have an electrocardiogram every 5 years.
• Have your blood pressure measured at least every 2 years.

Between 40 and 50 years of age

The frequency of these checkups increases slightly for this age range.

Recommendations:

• Have a laboratory test every 2 years.
• Have an annual electrocardiogram.
• Measure your blood pressure ideally every 4 months.
• It is advisable to perform a stress test before the age of 50.

From 50 years of age

In this range, the frequency of check-ups increases and new studies are incorporated.

Recommendations:

• To undergo annual laboratory tests, expanding the requested parameters, according to the physician’s criteria.
• Have an electrocardiogram every 6 months.
• Have your blood pressure measured regularly.
• Have a stress test every 2 years or annually.

Note that if the person has risk factors such as family history, the aforementioned controls will increase in frequency and will begin at an earlier age.

Tips to take care of your heart health:

• Maintain an adequate diet and weight.
• Constant physical activity, including aerobic exercise 30 minutes a day.
• Avoid cigarette smoking and places contaminated by cigarette smoke.
• Moderate consumption of alcoholic beverages.
• Have regular diagnostic tests in order to detect risk factors at an early stage.

Dr. César Vecco
Cardiologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma