Health
Blood Test May Predict Women’s Heart Disease Risk Decades Ahead
Recent research suggests that a single blood test could predict a woman’s risk of heart disease up to 30 years in advance.
Published in The New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress, the study offers promising insights into long-term heart health prediction.
The study involved nearly 30,000 women, with an average age of 55, who underwent a blood test in 1993.
This test measured two types of fat in the bloodstream and a specific protein, and the participants’ health was monitored over a 30-year period.
Dr. Paul Ridker, the lead study author and director of the Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, stated:
“The strongest predictor of risk was a simple blood measure of inflammation known as high sensitivity C-reactive protein, or hsCRP, followed by cholesterol and lipoprotein(a).”
He emphasized the significance of these findings, noting:
“Knowing all three predicted risks not just at five or 10 years, but at 20 and 30 years, gives us a road map for how to target specific therapies for the individual patient, rather than an overly simple ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.”
C-reactive protein (CRP), produced by the liver, increases with inflammation and indicates a higher risk of heart disease.
LDL cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, can accumulate in the arteries, elevating the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Additionally, lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a type of LDL cholesterol that also contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.
Dr. Ridker highlighted:
“This is a large, convincing study that puts together three predictive blood tests that haven’t been looked at in this way before.”
The study found that women with the highest levels of LDL cholesterol had a 36% increased risk of heart disease compared to those with the lowest levels.
Those with the highest levels of Lp(a) had a 33% greater risk.
Women with the highest levels of CRP faced a 70% increased risk.
Moreover, women with elevated levels of all three measures were 1½ times more likely to experience a stroke and over three times as likely to develop coronary heart disease.
Despite the importance of these measures, Dr. Ridker pointed out:
“While most doctors measure cholesterol, very few measure hsCRP and Lp(a).”
He added:
“It is a truism of medicine that doctors will not treat what they do not measure.”
The ability of a single blood test to predict risk 30 years later is described by Ridker as “astonishing.”
He remarked:
“It tells us how much silent risk we simply are unaware of, and gives us an opportunity to start preventive efforts far earlier in life.”
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst for Fox News and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, praised the study, stating it is a “big step forward” in using blood tests to determine a woman’s cardiac risk.
Siegel noted:
“This is a large, convincing study that puts together three predictive blood tests that haven’t been looked at in this way before.”
He further explained:
“Since inflammation can cause heart attacks, it is confirmatory that an elevated inflammation marker (CRP) conveys a 70% increased risk for heart disease.”
Siegel also mentioned that LDL and Lp(a) have been previously linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
Looking ahead, Siegel envisions that blood markers like these will be combined with artificial intelligence to assess heart disease and stroke risk.
Based on the study’s findings, Ridker advises patients to ask their doctors to measure hsCRP and Lp(a).
“The time has come for our guidelines to change,” he asserted.
Ridker observed that women often seem less concerned about heart disease than men.
He explained:
“Unfortunately, our traditional screening guidelines rarely identify at-risk women until they are in their late 60s or 70s. Yet prevention must start in our 30s and 40s for it to be most effective.”
Preventive measures should initially focus on a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management.
However, some patients may require drug therapies to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.
The researchers acknowledged that the study’s main limitation was its focus on health professionals.
Ridker noted:
“Yet in other settings, we know this is also true for men — and, if anything, an even greater concern for minority individuals.”
The research received funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), and the National Cancer Institute (NCI).
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
As flu season approaches, it’s crucial to take steps to protect yourself from viral illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasize that getting a flu shot annually is the most effective way to reduce the risk of seasonal flu and its complications. However, lifestyle factors like diet can significantly influence how effective your flu shot will be. Jennie Stanford, MD, FAAFP, DipABOM, a double board-certified physician, shares insights on which foods can boost or hinder your flu shot’s effectiveness. Here are the six best and worst foods to consider.
Fatty Fish
Eating fatty fish such as salmon and sardines can help fight inflammation due to their richness in polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs), specifically omega-3 fatty acids. A 2010 study highlights, “The anti-inflammatory effects of marine n-3 PUFAs [such as the omega-3s EPA, DHA, and DPA] suggest that they may be useful as therapeutic agents in disorders with an inflammatory component.” If seafood isn’t to your taste, consider chia seeds, olive oil, and avocados as alternative anti-inflammatory foods.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are high in sodium and refined carbohydrates, which can lead to inflammation. These are often found in fast food and pre-packaged items like chips, cookies, and frozen meals. Stanford warns that these foods “can make side effects worse after vaccinations,” making them a poor choice if you want to maximize your flu shot’s effectiveness.
Berries
Berries are packed with antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system. Stanford notes that their high antioxidant content makes them particularly beneficial during cold and flu season. Other antioxidant-rich foods like leafy greens, turmeric, and green tea can also enhance your flu shot’s effectiveness.
Foods High in Added Sugars
Foods loaded with added sugars can contribute to inflammation, potentially undermining the benefits of your flu shot. Sweet treats like ice cream, cake, and candy fall into this category. Instead, try satisfying your sweet tooth with natural sources of sugar, such as high-fiber fruits.
Alcohol
While there is no definitive data showing that drinking alcohol immediately before or after your flu shot compromises its effectiveness, frequent alcohol consumption can negatively impact your immune system. The Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) explains, “The immune system is made up of two parts: The innate immune system: this provides general immunity by responding to viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause disease [and] the adaptive immune system [which impacts] your immune memory.” Drinking affects both parts of the immune system, potentially reducing your body’s ability to respond to the flu shot.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
In addition to berries, other antioxidant-rich foods can also help increase your flu shot’s effectiveness. Leafy greens, turmeric, and green tea are excellent choices. These foods can boost your immune system, making it easier for your body to respond effectively to the flu vaccine.
Taking steps to enhance the effectiveness of your flu shot through diet can make a significant difference in your overall health during flu season. By incorporating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods while avoiding processed foods, added sugars, and excessive alcohol, you can give your immune system the support it needs.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
If you regularly use over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or aspirin, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. Recent research suggests that frequent use of these medications could increase the likelihood of developing tinnitus, commonly known as ringing in the ears.
A study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine followed over 69,000 women for two decades. The findings revealed that those who frequently took nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen had nearly a 20 percent higher risk of experiencing tinnitus.
“Because over-the-counter analgesics are widely available without a prescription and perceived to be safe, frequent use of these medications is very common,” explains Sharon Curhan, M.D., the lead author of the study and an assistant professor of medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
“Most people are not aware of the potential harm that these medications may cause and the possibility of adverse interactions with other medications, particularly when used frequently,” Curhan adds.
Many cold and sinus medications also include these painkillers, which can lead to unintentional overuse.
“It’s possible to take more of these medications than is intended or recognized,” Curhan notes.
Interestingly, the study found that frequent use of low-dose aspirin (100 mg or less) did not increase the risk of developing tinnitus. Curhan describes this as a “helpful finding,” especially for those who take low doses of aspirin to prevent cardiovascular issues and other conditions.
Moreover, women aged 60 and older who frequently took moderate doses of aspirin (325 mg or more) did not show an increased risk of tinnitus. However, the risk was higher among younger women. All participants in the study were initially between the ages of 31 and 48 and did not have tinnitus at the start.
Previous research has also indicated a connection between regular use of aspirin, NSAIDs, and acetaminophen and hearing loss in men. The new study emphasizes the need for further research on the relationship between pain medication and tinnitus in men and non-white women.
Understanding these risks can help you make more informed decisions about your health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Suddenly finding yourself unable to sleep can be frustrating and perplexing. Insomnia can stem from various causes, and understanding these can help you regain restful nights.
Napping Habits
Many adults unintentionally fall asleep while watching TV or when not busy. According to Dr. Doghramji, “your brain sees it as sleep.” This often occurs between 2 and 3 in the afternoon, a natural energy dip time. This can make you less tired at bedtime, leading to insomnia. Instead of napping, consider scheduling an active task during this period to boost energy and improve sleep quality.
Nap Wisely
If a nap is unavoidable, Dr. Pelayo suggests keeping it under 40 minutes to avoid grogginess. It’s also beneficial to nap where you usually sleep to maintain a consistent sleep environment.
Bedtime Activities
Reading might seem like a relaxing pre-sleep activity, but Dr. Harris advises against doing it in bed.
“I prefer that the bed is only used for sleep and sex,” she says. Activities like puzzles or coloring can also make your brain associate the bed with wakefulness, affecting your ability to fall asleep.
Alcohol Consumption
A glass of wine might help you fall asleep initially, but it can cause fragmented sleep later. Research indicates that alcohol can lead to lighter sleep in the second half of the night, causing you to wake up around 3 a.m. To minimize this, limit alcohol intake to three hours before bedtime and drink moderately.
Medication Timing
Poor timing of medications can disrupt sleep. Diuretics for blood pressure can increase nighttime urination, and some antidepressants can be either energizing or sedating. Dr. Doghramji notes that taking more than one or two bathroom breaks at night is abnormal. Always consult your doctor before adjusting medication timings.
Managing Stress
Stress can make falling asleep difficult and lead to fragmented sleep. Dr. Pelayo suggests keeping stressors, like bills, out of the bedroom.
“Put it in a separate room so when you go to your room, it’s a different world,” he says. Journaling or making lists can help manage persistent thoughts.
Sleep Environment and Routine
Lying in bed trying to force sleep can backfire. Dr. Harris recommends getting up and doing something relaxing in a different room if you can’t sleep.
“Sleep will come when it comes. If not tonight, don’t sleep in to compensate — and you’ll likely sleep better the next night,” she says.
Sleep Disorders
Insomnia can be a symptom of over 80 sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and narcolepsy. Older adults are particularly susceptible to REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), which can be an early warning sign of neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s. Non-sleep disorders, such as pain, arthritis, and PTSD, can also cause insomnia.
Exercise
Exercise can improve sleep quality, but working out too close to bedtime might be counterproductive. Aim to exercise at least two hours before bed to allow your body to wind down.
Treatment Options
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)
CBT-I is often the first-line treatment for insomnia, addressing habits and thoughts that keep you awake. Medication can be an option but comes with side effects, especially for older adults. A newer category of medication, dual orexin receptor antagonist (DORA), has shown promise for older adults with insomnia.
CBT-I can help retrain your thoughts to calm your mind. Dr. Doghramji suggests using CBT-I apps during the day to practice these skills.
When to Seek Help
If insomnia impacts your daytime function or persists despite self-help efforts, consult a doctor. Working with a sleep specialist can help identify the root causes and establish a personalized treatment plan.
“Modern sleep medicine has reached a point where most sleep disorder will improve when addressed correctly,” says Dr. Pelayo. “So you shouldn’t suffer with a sleep disorder anymore.”
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
-
Health4 months ago17-Second Neuropathy Solution
-
Health11 months agoPreventing Falls and Injuries for Seniors
-
Nutrition8 months agoThe Aging Secret of Vitamin D Unveiled
-
Health3 months agoOncologist Reveals Top 5 Cancer Prevention Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore
-
Nutrition12 months ago5 AMAZING Dinner Recipes That Are Also HEALTHY
-
Lifestyle4 months agoSleep Soundly with These 11 Expert-Approved Bedtime Routines
-
Health9 months agoDownsizing Tips: Simplifying Your Lifestyle
-
Lifestyle2 weeks agoMorning Habits That Could Add Years to Your Life