Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

Heart Health

Individuals differ in their risk levels for heart disease but the reasons behind these differences may be rooted in their genetic makeup. The answer may lie in our genes. This blog post will investigate the genetic characteristics that affect heart health to show how our DNA determines our vulnerability to coronary artery disease and what actions we can implement to decrease these risks.

Genetic Description

Heart disease affects more than 18 million Americans and it causes a third of deaths which could have been prevented. 40% of the variability in coronary artery disease risk between individuals can be explained by genetic factors. Heart health depends heavily on modifiable risk factors including being overweight, experiencing high stress levels, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking habits. Preventing heart disease requires managing modifiable risk factors independent of genetic predispositions. The most common heart disease type originates when the blood-supplying coronary arteries become obstructed or narrowed. Blocked or narrowed coronary arteries can restrict oxygen supply to heart tissue which leads to chest pain or heart attacks. The risk of heart disease develops from multiple sources such as excess weight and unhealthy diet together with stress, lack of exercise, smoking habits, air pollution exposure, age-related factors as well as high blood pressure together with high cholesterol levels alongside diabetes and genetic predispositions. Genetics contribute to heart health but maintaining heart health requires an equal focus on lifestyle choices. It proves more effective to prevent heart disease than to treat it after onset. A heart-healthy lifestyle that combines non-smoking habits with a nutritious diet and regular physical activity plus quality sleep can greatly lower heart disease risk. People who have inherited vulnerability to coronary artery disease gain important risk profile knowledge through analysis of genetic markers that affect fat metabolism and processes related to inflammation and blood clotting and blood vessel function. The genetic regulation of specific markers including white blood cells, fasting insulin levels, IGF-1 concentrations and ApoB presence affects heart disease development probabilities. Doctors frequently prescribe aspirin along with statins and beta-blockers to treat coronary artery disease and mitigate its related health risks. Lifestyle changes stand as the fundamental strategy for both preventing and managing heart disease.

Taking Action for Heart Health

To promote heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease, individuals can take proactive steps such as: A healthy weight maintenance routine includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables while engaging in regular physical activity to protect heart health. People can actively protect their heart health and minimize their chances of developing heart disease through the integration of genetic knowledge with changes to their daily habits. Explore your heart health possibilities with Precision Health & Wellness tests from PlexusDx today. Access your genetic profile's valuable information and insights through PlexusDx.com, Amazon, or Walmart. Protecting your heart health requires preventive measures that ensure long-term well-being.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.

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