How long does it take for cardiovascular disease to develop?

I've been hearing a lot about cardiovascular disease lately and how it can be prevented. But I'm curious, how long does it actually take for cardiovascular disease to develop? Is it something that happens suddenly or over a long period of time?

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Great question! Cardiovascular disease usually develops over a long period of time, often decades. It's a result of damage to the heart and blood vessels caused by factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes. By making lifestyle changes early on, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease later in life.

That's really interesting. So even if I'm young and healthy now, I should still be thinking about my cardiovascular health? I always thought it was something to worry about when I was older.

Absolutely! It's never too early to start thinking about your cardiovascular health. In fact, the earlier you start making healthy choices, the better. This includes eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, and managing stress. These lifestyle factors can have a big impact on your heart health over time.