03/02/2026
Your birthday cake might say 40, but your heart could be telling a different story. 'Heart Age' is a simple way to understand your risk of heart disease. If your heart is older than you are, it means you have a higher risk of health issues compared to others your age. Here in Aotearoa, knowing when to check is crucial. National guidelines often suggest that MΔori, Pacific, and South Asian peoples start these checks earlier. That usually means age 30 for men and 40 for women in those groups. Factors like blood pressure and cholesterol are the big drivers that speed up aging. The good news is that you can change them. Unlike other places that look at a 10-year risk, NZ doctors often focus on the next 5 years to give you immediate goals. Have you ever booked a heart risk assessment to find out your true numbers? π«