The prevalence rates of most modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease vary in different countries and regions of the United Kingdom. In general, the risk factor profile of a region tends to be worse in the North of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland than in the South of England. This is not the case for all risk factors, however. For example, for women the prevalence of doctor-diagnosed diabetes is highest in London and lowest in the North East and North West of England.

For a more detailed discussion of all the main CHD risk factors, see Coronary heart disease statistics 2007 or www.heartstats.org.