Health
Chronic inflammation linked to structural heart changes in major UK study
ScienceDaily reports that high inflammation levels correlate with elevated risks of heart attack and stroke.
The short version
- Researchers analyzed UK Biobank records covering nearly 480,000 adults using the inflammatory blood marker glycoprotein acetyls.[ScienceDaily]
- Higher inflammation levels correlated with thicker heart walls, reduced chamber sizes, and impaired heart filling.[ScienceDaily]
- Participants exhibiting the highest inflammation faced a 43% greater risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke.[ScienceDaily]
- Experts suggest millions may unknowingly harbor inflammation that gradually alters heart anatomy prior to noticeable symptoms.[ScienceDaily]
Key facts
- A study led by Imperial College London and the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences examined data from nearly 480,000 UK Biobank participants.[ScienceDaily]
- The research measured inflammation levels through a blood biomarker called glycoprotein acetyls.[ScienceDaily]
- Individuals with the highest inflammation levels exhibited a 43% higher risk of stroke and heart attack.[ScienceDaily]
- High inflammation was associated with silent physical cardiac remodeling, including smaller heart chambers and thicker walls.[ScienceDaily]
What remains uncertain
- The extent to which early anti-inflammatory treatments can directly prevent structural cardiac remodeling or avert heart failure remains subject to ongoing investigation.[ScienceDaily]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
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