Identifying Modifiable Risk Factors for Heart Disease

A 45-year-old male patient presents to the clinic for a routine physical examination. He has a family history of cardiovascular disease and is a current smoker. He reports a sedentary lifestyle and a high-fat diet. As the nurse, you recognize that these factors contribute to the patient’s risk for heart disease.

Fill in the blank to complete the statement: The nurse should educate the patient that his risk is heightened by modifiable factors such as ____________ and ____________, which can be reduced through lifestyle changes.