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Higher BMI means higher risk of heart disease

Increased body mass index (BMI) has been found to significantly raise the risk of heart disease – regardless of exercise level, smoking status or diabetes – and that even relatively minor increases come with increased cardiovascular risk.

Research from the Australian National University found that as little as a five unit increase in BMI raises the risk of heart attack and angina by 23%. Those with BMIs between 20 and 22.5 are the least at risk, while for moderately overweight people, the risk is 43% higher. For those with BMIs above 32.5, the risk is more than doubled.

Researchers said that the findings highlight the importance for all Australians to manage their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, stop smoking, exercise daily and eat a healthy diet.

Read more at Australian National University

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