Those at high risk of developing heart attacks must take the following preventive measures: Their diet must be healthy and low in fats and salt, high in fibre and complex carbohydrates. Weight reduction is necessary for those who are over v weight Physical exercise must be done regularly. Smoking must be stopped completely. Those with diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol must take drugs to keep their condition under control. Aspirin in low doses, in the long term, helps to prevent heart attacks and strokes, by thinning the blood and making it less liable to clot easily.