Which patient demographic is most at risk for heart disease?

Older adults, particularly those with a family history of heart disease, are recognized as the demographic most at risk for developing this condition. As people age, the risk factors associated with heart disease increase significantly. This includes the prevalence of hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and accumulated lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity levels. Additionally, a family history of heart disease can indicate a genetic predisposition, which further elevates the risk.

In contrast, young adults, women in their 20s, and children generally have a lower incidence of heart disease due to their age and greater physiological resilience. Although these groups can have other health issues, the cumulative risk factors for heart disease predominantly manifest in older adults, making them the demographic at greatest risk.