High cholesterol is not the only factor that can trigger a heart attack, said cardiologist Dr. David Carrizo in an interview with Vanitatis.

He explained that a heart attack usually refers to acute damage to the heart muscle caused by a sudden interruption of blood flow.

According to Dr. Carrizo, the development of cardiovascular disease depends on a combination of factors — and high cholesterol is just one piece of the puzzle. The real causes of heart attacks often lie in a mix of metabolic dysfunction, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and chronic inflammation.

“Insulin resistance, elevated blood glucose levels, high blood pressure, a sedentary lifestyle, regular consumption of ultra-processed foods, and hidden inflammatory processes in the body — all of these can significantly increase the risk of a heart attack,” the doctor noted.

Dr. Carrizo also reminded that cardiovascular diseases remain one of the leading causes of death worldwide. He recommended taking a comprehensive approach to risk assessment and regularly monitoring weight, physical activity, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels.