As interest in healthy aging rises, a recent survey from the Cleveland Clinic highlights a troubling gap in heart health awareness among Americans. The 2026 report shows that about 24% of Americans are unsure if they are at risk for heart disease. Despite this uncertainty, a significant 69% of respondents reported they have at least one known risk factor.
Here are some of the most common factors:
- High blood pressure: 31%
- High cholesterol: 24%
- Family history: 23%
- Obesity: 20%
- Poor diet: 18%
- Sedentary lifestyle: 17%
- Daily stress: 16%
- Sleep apnea: 15%
- Smoking: 14%
- Diabetes: 13%
Dr. Samir Kapadia, chair of cardiovascular medicine at Cleveland Clinic, emphasizes that “Healthy aging is about prevention.” Heart disease often develops quietly over the years. Staying active, understanding risk factors, and addressing them can significantly affect one’s quality of life.
The survey also reveals that most Americans believe longevity is something achievable through everyday choices, rather than costly medical treatments. When asked about what longevity means to them, many prioritize:
- Staying active and mobile (62%)
- Maintaining cognitive health (56%)
- Preserving independence (56%)
Only a small 5% of participants associated longevity with expensive medical treatments. Interestingly, 70% believe the heart is at its best in one’s 20s or 30s, yet 95% agree that anyone can take steps at any age to improve longevity and heart health.
Top strategies for heart health include:
- Exercise (41%)
- Eating a balanced diet (25%)
- Maintaining a healthy weight (23%)
- Regular checkups (20%)
- Managing stress (20%)
Despite feeling overwhelmed by rising stress and weight gain—33% and 29% respectively—84% report making positive changes. Key improvements include:
- Eating healthier (40%)
- Being mindful of health metrics (36%)
- Increasing exercise (27%)
- Improving sleep (25%)
While 72% of Americans feel confident in maintaining heart health, many lack awareness of common risks. Nearly half don’t realize diabetes can increase heart disease risk, and about 44% are unaware of the dangers of inactivity. A remarkable 71% are also uninformed about women’s heart disease risks post-menopause.
This American Heart Month, the Cleveland Clinic’s Love Your Heart campaign urges people to understand their risk factors. The goal is to encourage proactive decisions for lifelong heart health. Making simple lifestyle changes can help everyone take charge of their well-being.
For more details, check out Cleveland Clinic’s recommendations on their website.
