BIOLOGICAL FACTORS

BIOLOGICAL

Factors that relate to the body and its functions which can impact on our health.

Blood pressure

As blood travels around the body a force is placed on the walls of the blood vessels, referred to as blood pressure.

High blood pressure (HBP) can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. Factors contributing to HBP include smoking, poor diet, inactivity, and stress.

Body weight

Everyone is a different shape and size, and it can be difficult to just look at how much a person weights to determine the consequences of their health. Organisations commonly use body mass index (BMI) to determine if groups are likely to be carrying excess body weight.

Can contribute to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, CVD and cancer

Cholesterol levels

·       LDL cholesterol can build up on the walls of the blood vessels in the body, providing less room for blood to travel and this can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke.

·       HDL can help reduce the build up of cholesterol in the blood vessels and reduce the likelihood of these conditions.

Glucose regulation

Glucose is a type of sugar that the body uses to create energy. When carbohydrates are consumed, it is broken down into glucose which is absorbed into the bloodstream.