2023-10-25 15:07:19
Title: New Study Reveals Modifiable Risk Factors Tied to Cardiovascular Diseases
Subtitle: Fame does not protect against illness and death, but behavioral changes can save lives
Fame and fortune have not proven to be protective shields against illness and death, as evidenced by the untimely demise of star musicians Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson, actress Carrie Fischer, and football legend Diego Maradona. However, other celebrities like Antonio Banderas are taking cues from their frightening experiences and making positive changes to safeguard their health. Such behavioral adjustments have been shown to have life-saving implications, according to a study conducted by the Global Cardiovascular Risk Consortium.
The research, led by the Department of Cardiology in the University Heart and Vascular Center at the University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), analyzed data from 1.5 million individuals across 34 countries and eight geographic regions. The study’s most significant finding revealed that more than half of all cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, heart attack, and stroke, are directly linked to five classic risk factors: overweight, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, smoking, and diabetes mellitus. Notably, elevated systolic blood pressure emerged as the most dangerous risk factor.
Dr. Christina Magnussen, a cardiologist from UKE, emphasized that these five risk factors are modifiable and accessible for preventive measures, as demonstrated by Antonio Banderas’ proactive response to his heart attack. Previous studies have produced conflicting results regarding the proportion of cardiovascular diseases attributed to these factors. However, this global study provides a definitive understanding and reinforces the need for particular attention to patients with elevated blood pressure to mitigate the risk of cardiovascular diseases effectively.
While the study focused on the five classic risk factors, Professor Helmut Peter, head of the Falkenried outpatient clinic and clinic for psychotherapy in Hamburg, noted that anxiety disorders, depression, and overwork can also contribute to heart-related illnesses. The World Health Organization conducted research indicating that working over 55 hours per week significantly increases the risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke. Over a third of individuals suffering from high blood pressure do not have physical causes, illustrating the complex nature of cardiovascular diseases.
Some individual risks, such as poor oral hygiene, can be easily avoided. Dr. Norman Mangner from the Heart Center of the Dresden University Hospital highlighted the link between bacterial infection in the teeth and gums and heart problems. Neglected dental care can lead to bacterial accumulation on the tooth root, which can find its way into the bloodstream and settle on the heart valves.
In addition to oral health, ongoing research is exploring the connection between heart health and the microbiome, specifically the interaction between the heart and intestinal bacteria. Dr. Boris Leithäuser, a specialist in cardiology and psychocardiology, noted that the field is in its early stages, cautioning against unproven diagnostic criteria or therapies. However, optimism remains that future data will pave the way for necessary diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.
Dr. Sofia Forslund, head of the “Host-Microbiome Factors in Cardiovascular Diseases” working group at the Experimental and Clinical Research Center in Berlin, published a study examining the link between the microbiome, metabolome, and cardiovascular diseases. The results indicate that changes in the microbiome and metabolome occur even before the onset of noticeable cardiovascular disease, during the preliminary stages of a metabolic disorder.
With the current limitations of the study’s scope, Forslund acknowledges that causality cannot be proven, only associations. Therefore, the most effective current preventive measures for heart attacks and strokes include maintaining a healthier lifestyle, reducing work-related stress, and practicing good oral hygiene.
In conclusion, fame and wealth do not guarantee protection against illness and death. However, the study conducted by the Global Cardiovascular Risk Consortium sheds light on the modifiable risk factors tied to cardiovascular diseases. By addressing these risk factors and making necessary behavioral changes, individuals can significantly reduce their susceptibility to heart-related illnesses.]
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