Certain diseases (such as diabetes), disorders, personal habits (such as smoking) and medications or chemicals are known to increase the risk of coronary heart disease, especially heart attacks. These factors, which cause heart problems, are called risk factors for coronary heart disease. To avoid a heart attack, you need to be aware of the various factors which trigger coronary heart disease. These include high blood pressure, abnormal blood cholesterol levels, and smoking; These factors need to be changed or even eliminated.