One in seven men aged 30-65 have been warned by their doctor that they are at high risk of having a heart attack, according to a survey released by the National Heart Foundation of Australia to mark Men's Health Week this week (13-19 June).

More than 5,500 Australian men die of heart attacks every year, the equivalent of 15 men every single day. The survey of 6,188 men aged 30-65 found that:

- one in five (22%) have not had their blood pressure checked in the last two years o over a quarter (27%) have not had their cholesterol checked in the last two years
- almost half have been advised by a doctor to lose weight (46%) and be more active (47%)
- nearly a third (29%) have been advised by a doctor to stop smoking

"High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels are often called 'silent killers' as there are no obvious symptoms," said Tony Thirlwell, Heart Foundation CEO - NSW.

"Men are renowned for avoiding the doctor, but unless you get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly, having a heart attack could be your first sign.

"If you think you might be having a heart attack - call Triple Zero. Symptoms are not necessarily sudden or severe and some people don't experience chest pain at all.

"The good news is that heart disease is largely preventable and simple changes really can add up to a big difference in your heart health," Mr Thirlwell said.

Warning Signs of Heart Attack:
Heart attack warning signs may include pain, pressure, heaviness or tightness in one or more parts of the upper body (chest, neck, jaw, arm(s), shoulder(s) or back) in combination with other symptoms of nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness or a cold sweat.

For important information on recognising the warning signs of heart attack and to download your own action plan visit www.heartattackfacts.org.au or call the Heart Foundation's Health Information Service on 1300 36 27 87.