From the Cross County Cardiology Education Team
As men age, the risk of developing heart disease rises dramatically—especially after 50. At Cross County Cardiology, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the most common cardiovascular issues affecting men in this age group is the first step toward prevention, early detection, and better outcomes.
Why Men Over 50 Are at Higher Risk
Several factors contribute to increased heart risk after age 50:
Hormonal Changes: As testosterone levels decline, so does the body’s ability to regulate cholesterol and blood pressure.
Cumulative Lifestyle Habits: Years of stress, poor diet, limited physical activity, and smoking history start to catch up.
Silent Progression: Heart disease often develops slowly and without symptoms, making regular check-ups essential.
Increased Vascular Stiffness: Arteries naturally stiffen with age, increasing blood pressure and heart workload.
Higher Likelihood of Comorbidities: Conditions like type 2 diabetes, obesity, and sleep apnea often emerge or worsen in this age group.
The Top 5 Heart Issues in Men Over 50
1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
This is the most common form of heart disease. It occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. Over time, this can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or heart failure.
Fact: CAD accounts for about 1 in every 4 male deaths in the U.S. (CDC, 2023)
2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure rarely has symptoms but puts immense strain on the heart and arteries. Uncontrolled hypertension significantly increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
Fact: Over 60% of men over 50 have elevated blood pressure (American Heart Association)
3. Heart Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeat)
Men over 50 are more likely to experience atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition where the heart beats irregularly. AFib raises the risk of stroke and heart failure if left untreated.
Fact: Men with AFib are 1.5 times more likely to suffer a stroke than those without
4. Heart Failure
Despite the name, heart failure doesn’t mean the heart has stopped—it means it can’t pump blood effectively. This often results from years of uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, or prior heart damage.
Fact: More than 6 million Americans are living with heart failure, and the majority are men over 50
5. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
PAD is often overlooked but very common in aging men. It happens when plaque builds up in the arteries of the legs, reducing circulation and causing pain or cramping with walking.
Fact: PAD affects 12–20% of Americans over 60, mostly men, and is a strong indicator of widespread vascular disease
How Cross County Cardiology Can Help
At Cross County Cardiology, we don’t just treat heart conditions—we work to prevent them. For men over 50, we recommend:
Routine screenings (EKG, stress tests, vascular studies)
Lifestyle support for diet, fitness, and stress
Medication management when necessary
Education that empowers long-term heart health
Most importantly, we offer a personalized, patient-first approach—because your heart deserves expert care at every stage of life.
Final Thought
Heart disease is common—but it’s not inevitable. With proactive care and expert guidance, men over 50 can live long, healthy, and active lives. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up. Get ahead of your heart health.
Ready to take charge of your heart? Schedule a check-up today at 
