Health expert urges heart risk checks at any age after new survey

Cleveland Clinic survey finds gap between confidence and actual heart health risks.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new national survey from the Cleveland Clinic reveals that many adults may be overlooking key risks to their heart health, despite feeling confident about staying heart-healthy. Dr. Leslie Cho, Director of the Cleveland Clinic's Women's Cardiovascular Center, discusses the survey findings and the importance of getting regular heart health checks, even at a young age.

Why it matters

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, making it critical for people of all ages to be proactive about monitoring their heart health. This survey highlights the need for greater education and awareness around the importance of regular checkups and risk assessments, especially as Americans focus more on longevity and healthy aging.

The details

The Cleveland Clinic survey found that while 92% of adults feel confident about maintaining their heart health, nearly half (48%) have at least one risk factor for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Dr. Cho emphasizes the importance of getting regular checkups to identify and address these risks, even for younger individuals who may not think they are at risk.

  • February is American Heart Month.

The players

Dr. Leslie Cho

Director of the Cleveland Clinic's Women's Cardiovascular Center.

Cleveland Clinic

A nonprofit academic medical center that conducted the survey on heart health risks.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This survey highlights the importance of regular heart health checkups and risk assessments, even for younger individuals who may not think they are at risk. By being proactive about their heart health, people of all ages can take steps to identify and address potential issues before they become more serious.