The prevalence of high blood pressure, hypertension, heart disease, and heart attacks in Black people is still among the highest in the world and is steadily increasing. Why are we still dying from these conditions? Are they preventable? According to Health Day News, coronary artery disease and the like can definitely be prevented.

Here are five ways you can prevent yourself from becoming a statistic:

See your doctor for a checkup and an evaluation of your risk.

The American Heart Association has advised that doctors evaluate patients for their general risk of cardiovascular disease starting at age 20. As part of the assessment, your doctor should check your blood pressure, body mass index, waist measurement, and pulse, and repeat the assessment at least every two years.

Your cholesterol and glucose levels should be

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