Speak with an experienced advisor! In short, the likely answer is yes but there are some factors within your control that can positively affect your chances of getting a more favorable rate for life insurance. The list below includes health and lifestyle issues that if implemented will be evidence to the insurance company that you are serious about your health and motivated to live more healthy.
- If you are a smoker or tobacco user, quit! Smoking greatly increases the risk of coronary heart disease and is a leading cause of cardiac related deaths in the US. If you continue to smoke with a diagnosis of angina, you are likely to be declined for life insurance.
- Regular follow-up with your cardiologist is imperative. Completion of suggested diagnostic tests such as a thallium stress test, echocardiogram or ultra fast CT will provide the insurance company crucial information on your condition and its stability. Without adequate follow-up, most companies will not consider making an offer.
- Normal blood pressure and cholesterol readings are critical. Well controlled blood pressure and cholesterol in many cases stabilizes angina and reduces your risk of progression.
- Regular exercise makes a difference. Lack of exercise is one of the main contributing factors of angina. Exercise also helps to control weight and reduce stress levels. If you have angina, make sure you follow your doctor’s prescribed exercise program.
- Watch your weight. Obesity is a major risk factor for those diagnosed with any heart related problem including angina. If you are overweight, it is likely that the insurance company will not look at your case as favorably as if your weight was within normal limits.
- A low fat diet including fruits and vegetables will improve overall health and has a positive impact on heart health. A healthy diet will help in reducing blood pressure and cholesterol thereby reducing the risk for angina.
- Provide a detailed cover letter from your physician as well as a personal letter detailing your alcohol usage history and rehabilitation.
- Be a nonsmoker. Smoking increases policy rates by up to 70% without any alcohol history.
- No history of bankruptcy or other financial problems.
- Have a consistent marriage without divorce including active involvement with children if present.
If you are a reformed alcohol user, there is a good chance of getting a competitively priced life insurance policy. The key is to be physically healthy and to provide positive information regarding your character. Providing clear-cut and encouraging information regarding your health and lifestyle issues in many cases will allow the insurance company to justify a better rate.
For more information, contact MEG Financial at (877) 583-3955.
