Cardiovascular disease refers to any disease that affects the heart and blood vessels, including atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. It remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lack of exercise, obesity, diabetes, family history, age, sex, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and controlling blood pressure and glucose levels can help prevent cardiovascular disease.