Explain why living a healthy lifestyle is the most important step in preventing cardiovascular disease.

Answer:

Living a healthy lifestyle helps control the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, excess weight, and diabetes. Eating nutritious foods, being physically active, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol reduce strain on the heart and blood vessels. These habits are important because they can prevent problems from developing and help manage risks that are already present.