Researchers at the National Center for Cardiovascular Research (CNIC) have found that young people are more susceptible to the harmful effects of factors that promote atherosclerosis, such as high cholesterol and blood pressure. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, emphasizes the need for aggressive control of risk factors to begin at an earlier age, suggesting a change in primary prevention strategies.
The results of the study are considered a “call to action” to rethink when and how doctors should intervene to prevent cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that atherosclerosis can be reversed, especially if aggressive interventions are implemented early on. Lifestyle modifications, such as diet changes, reducing alcohol consumption, and lowering salt intake, can help control cholesterol levels and blood pressure. If these measures are not effective, pharmacological treatments may be necessary.
The authors of the study urge for early screening for subclinical atherosclerosis and aggressive management of risk factors to alleviate the global burden of cardiovascular disease. They recommend screening for cholesterol or atheroma plaques in the carotid or femoral arteries to identify those at risk and begin aggressive risk factor management. It is estimated that 30% of people between 40 and 45 years old have atherosclerosis in some arterial segment. This underscores the importance of early intervention and control of risk factors in young adults as a preventive measure.
Young people may be more vulnerable to damage due to these factors because their arteries are less exposed to aging. However, research shows that it is possible to reverse atherosclerosis with aggressive interventions implemented early on.
The study highlights the need for doctors and healthcare providers to take an active role in promoting healthy lifestyles among young adults as part of their primary prevention strategies.
Overall, this research emphasizes the importance of early intervention in preventing cardiovascular disease by controlling risk factors such as high cholesterol and blood pressure through lifestyle modifications or pharmacological treatments if necessary.
It also calls attention on how important it is for doctors and healthcare providers to screen young adults for subclinical atherosclerosis and manage these risks aggressively before they become serious health problems.
In conclusion, this research suggests that preventing cardiovascular disease starts from an earlier age by controlling risk factors such as high cholesterol and blood pressure through lifestyle modifications or pharmacological treatments if necessary.