This article is part ofHealth Divide: Heart Disease Risk Factors, a destination in our Health Divide series.

Verywell Health: What are the first steps I should take to address my risk for heart disease?

Dr. Shepherd: Adequate change takes one small step at a time.

Ask an expert headshot of Dr. Shepherd

Xiaoyu Liu / Verywell

Its important to remember this, because disease doesn’t happen overnight.

If so, then we can start to see real change.

It all starts with how we, as healthcare providers, communicate the necessary interventions and lifestyle habits.