Poll: Many unaware heart risk begins early

CHICAGO, Feb. 20 (UPI) -- Nearly two-thirds of U.S. adults are unaware that risk factors for heart disease can begin long before adulthood, a survey indicates.

Recent research, published in the journal Circulation, shows the risk of heart disease can appear as early as age 9, European researchers say.

The survey, conducted by StrategyOne for The Quaker Oats Co., also indicates about 48 percent of respondents ages 18-24 agree heart health information is overwhelming and two-thirds say they do not feel equipped to help reduce their risk of heart disease based on their current knowledge about diet, exercise and heart disease facts.

Dr. Nieca Goldberg, medical director of New York University's Women's Heart Program, is partnering with Quaker Oats to help Americans better understand steps they can take to achieve better heart health.

"Most people are aware of the childhood obesity problem our country is facing, but few connect the dots between this epidemic and heart disease risk later in life," Goldberg says in a statement.

Goldberg recommends to:

-- Start the day with breakfast.

-- Get 30 minutes of exercise each day.

-- Consume more whole grains. Currently only 5 percent consume at least half of their total grain intake as whole grains, the recommended amount.

-- Have blood pressure and cholesterol checked.

-- Take advantage of research, tips and tools readily available.

The online national survey among 1,000 adults ages 18-64. All significance tests were conducted at the 95 percent confidence level. No margin of error was provided.