Americans underestimate risk for heart attack and stroke.

One American dies from cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds. Despite that fact, many people still are underestimating their risk for heart disease and stroke, according to a Gallup poll sponsored by The Bayer Co. They appear to be unaware of the full extent of their risk for cardiovascular disease and fail to recognize the crucial link between a family history of heart disease and stroke and their own personal risk for these diseases,

In the survey of 1,000 adults aged 35-65, 32% did not consider themselves to be at risk for a heart attack or stroke, although they did list at least one personal risk factor for these diseases. In addition, 30% who indicated a family history of heart disease or stroke said they weren't at risk for these diseases.

"These Americans fail to realize the essential role that a family history of heart disease plays in determining their personal risk. The perception isn't in line with reality," maintains Noel Bairey Merz, director of the Preventive & Rehabilitative Cardiac Center, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles. "One study found that a family history can elevate an individual's risk to over sever times that of someone without a family history."

Not only are those with a family history not fully aware of its impact on future cardiovascular disease, but the poll also discovered that many of them have additional risk factors, further escalating the danger. Among those with a family history, 70% had high blood pressure; 70% had high cholesterol; 68% are obese; 65% smoke; and 63% don't exercise.

While a family history of heart disease and stroke is a serious concern, it doesn't have to be a deadly one. People who know that heart disease or stroke is lurking in their family tree have a potentially...