Genomics and Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death and a major cause of disability in the United States. More than 600,000 Americans die of heart disease annually. This represents about 26% of all deaths in the United States. To raise awareness of this disease, February has been recognized as "American Heart Month" since 1963.

Illustration of arteries at various levels of blockage. Some medical conditions, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes, can increase your risk of developing heart disease. Lifestyle factors (such as an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and alcohol or tobacco use) and having close biological relatives with heart disease can also increase your risk of developing this disease.

Some families have a common genetic disorder called familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). This disorder causes elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (or LDL) cholesterol, which can increase a person's risk for premature coronary heart disease and death. Approximately 1 of every 500 people in the United States has FH (or an estimated 600,000 people). FH remains under-diagnosed and under-treated. However, this disorder can be easily and effectively identified using cascade testing (also known as family tracing). Early detection and treatment of FH can help reduce the risk for coronary heart disease and death in persons with the disorder.

Listen to a new podcast about familial hypercholesterolemia. Learn more about family health history.