A study from Sweden, recently published in the European Society of Cardiology meeting, has made some interesting observations regarding cardiac health, which most of us know but have not actively or consciously thought about. It is a known fact that diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol are established risk factors for heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related death. However, this study has highlighted some asymptomatic individuals with marginally elevated numbers in waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose. These individuals have a higher risk of having a heart attack and stroke two to three years earlier than their peers.

Slightly Elevated Blood Pressure – High-Risk for Cardiovascular Deaths

About 34,000 middle-aged men and women in their 40s and 50s who have asymptomatic metabolic syndrome participated in the study which followed over 3 decades. Most of them may not be aware of the metabolic syndrome since their blood sugar, cholesterol, waist circumference, and blood pressure levels are on the borderline or not too elevated.

Due to the borderline nature of these conditions, most of these individuals have not yet started medications and treatment. They may have been either overlooked or advised to follow lifestyle modifications. The cumulative effect of these multiple borderline factors significantly increases the risk of suffering a heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death at an earlier age compared to individuals without these risk factors.

Early Recognition Can Prevent Cardiac Ailments.

Globally, approximately 31% of the population falls into the category of metabolic syndrome, which means they silently harbor these risk factors which are considered a precursor to early heart attacks or strokes. This study presents the importance of early recognition and management of these borderline factors, even before individuals are diagnosed with full-blown diabetes, dyslipidemia, or hypertension. Thus, as cardiologists, we should recognize these individuals who have asymptomatic multiple borderline deranged factors like waist girth (obesity), BP, cholesterol, and sugar and initiate treatment along with lifestyle factors to prevent their risk of cardiovascular disease.

Photo credits: Google