When a person thinks about their age, they usually focus only on their date of birth, but health experts warn that individuals can age prematurely due to their lifestyle. This can lead to certain organs becoming fatigued and at a higher risk of disorders and chronic diseases. According to the "Daily Mail," an online test can help individuals measure the actual age of their heart muscle.
A person can estimate the actual age of their heart by answering several essential questions about their health status. Heart diseases raise significant concern globally; in the United States, for instance, data suggests that 40 percent of the population will suffer from heart disorders to varying degrees by 2030. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that heart diseases are responsible for one in every five deaths in the United States.
To take this online test, one needs to visit the "MyHealthCheckup" website where individuals can receive useful information for free. If a person cannot answer certain questions, such as their cholesterol levels, it does not affect the overall test since they can click on "I don't know" and move on to other questions.
The website measures several health indicators, including:
- Age
- Weight and height
- Waist measurement
- Blood pressure
- Are you taking medication to control blood pressure?
- Diabetes
- Are you taking medication to control blood sugar?
- Is there a history of heart diseases in your family?
- Do you smoke?
- Cholesterol levels
- Have you ever experienced a stroke or heart problem?
- How often do you exercise?
Upon answering the questions, the site provides a detailed report, displaying the actual age of the individual's heart muscle. For instance, a person may be 25 years old, but to their surprise, their vital muscle might be in a condition equivalent to someone who is 30. The website also estimates the percentage likelihood of experiencing a heart attack in the coming years and recommends steps to reduce risks.
The platform advises following a healthy lifestyle, including exercising and quitting smoking, to lessen the chances of serious heart diseases. Some steps to enhance heart health include:
- Regular cholesterol checks.
- Constant blood pressure monitoring.
- Paying attention to diet, avoiding foods high in sugar and fats.
- Regular exercise.
- Avoiding smoking.