Cardiologist reveals top 3 preventable causes of death — calls smoking the worst offender

A leading cardiologist breaks down the top preventable risk factors for early death — and warns that smoking tops the list.(Image: Pexels)

Who doesn’t want a long, healthy life? But staying fit requires making a conscious effort to adopt a healthy lifestyle and work on habits that need changing. It’s about the choices you make every day for long-term gains. Cardiologist Dr Jeremy London told Moneycontrol, the top three ways to prevent risk factors for all-cause mortality.

Smoking

Unsurprisingly, the first on his list was smoking, which he termed the “worst offender,” adding, “It is, without question, the single worst thing you can do for your body. It damages nearly every organ system, increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, and is responsible for the vast majority of lung cancer deaths.”

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Sharing statistics, he further explained that approximately one in five deaths is linked to tobacco use. He urged smokers to think seriously about quitting, citing it as “the most powerful step you can take for your health.”

Poor Diet

A good diet is key to protecting heart health and longevity. Emphasising its importance, the cardiologist said, “Diets low in fruits and vegetables, and high in trans fats and ultra-processed foods, contribute to the same proportion of deaths as smoking, mainly from cardiovascular disease.”

Since food nourishes your body, Dr London highly recommends designing a nutritional plan that suits your needs and being mindful of the foods you consume.

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High Blood Pressure

The cardiologist called high blood pressure a “silent killer,” affecting 1 in 2 Americans, with most unaware of the problem. He added, “Chronic elevation of systolic blood pressure, the top number, damages the heart, brain, and kidneys.”

However, Dr London noted that it can be managed through lifestyle changes, diet, stress management, and medication when necessary.

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Additionally, studies show that regular exercise that increases your heart and breathing rate can reduce the risk of early death by 40%. Experts recommend incorporating physical activity for long-term health, regardless of age — you can start anytime. Brisk walks, running, biking, and similar activities contribute to the same benefits.

FAQs about smoking: 

Q: Why is smoking considered the worst offender for health?

A: Smoking damages nearly every organ system, increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, and is responsible for the vast majority of lung cancer deaths. Approximately one in five deaths is linked to tobacco use.

Q: How does diet impact heart health and longevity?

A: Diets low in fruits and vegetables and high in trans fats and ultra-processed foods contribute to the same proportion of deaths as smoking, mainly from cardiovascular disease.

Q: What makes high blood pressure a "silent killer"?

A: High blood pressure affects 1 in 2 Americans, with most unaware of the problem. Chronic elevation of systolic blood pressure damages the heart, brain, and kidneys.

Q: How can regular exercise benefit long-term health?

A: Regular exercise that increases your heart and breathing rate can reduce the risk of early death by 40%. Activities like brisk walks, running, and biking contribute to these benefits.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.