Could I be at risk for heart disease? Heart disease exists on a continuum. The more risk factors you have for heart disease, the higher your risk. Major risk factors for women include: Cigarette smoking High blood pressure (140/90 or higher—or if you take high blood pressure medication) Low HDL “good” cholesterol levels of less than 50 mg/dL A family history of early heart disease (heart disease in father or brother before age 55; in mother or sister before age 65). Age 55 or older Diabetes << BACK