The Family Heart Foundation has a Mission. There is so much more to accomplish and you can help prevent heart attacks by spreading awareness. This could save future generations by improving the care of the inherited disorders that impact generations: elevated lipoprotein(s) and familial hypercholesterolemia.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.

Just the Beginning

The Family Heart Foundation hopes to spread the word that hereditary conditions may increase the stroke and heart attack probability between five to twenty times. People hear the terms but do not fully understand that with bad cholesterol (LDL), they are at a greater risk of a stroke or heart attack. Therefore. anyone with a family history of heart disease should consult a specialist.

Research, Education, and Advocacy

It is estimated that worldwide one in two hundred fifty children and adults have familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). Elevated Lipoprotein(a), also called Lp(a), statistics are more severe and are known to be between one in five. Many people with these disorders do not know or understand the risks. They are content with thinking that it is just part of their family’s heritage.

What are the Genetic Risks of Heart Disease?

Genes that are passed on from generation to generation are called hereditary traits. Unless other factors are introduced, at the moment it is believed that if a family member has a history of heart disease others family members are at risk also.

Heart-Related Procedures

Surgeries and medications related to heart problems are essential to your family’s medical history. This includes pacemakers or other heart-related devices. If this is part of your family history your risk of developing heart disease increases.

Familial Hypercholesterolemia Awareness Day is being recognized this year on September 24th. Click here to learn more about how you can get involved.