A blood test can predict heart risk up to 30 years in advance

A study recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the Congress of the European Society of Cardiology 2024 reveals crucial information about women's cardiovascular health.

The research, led by Dr. Paul Ridker, highlights the importance of analyzing not only LDL cholesterol, commonly known as "bad" cholesterol, but also other less conventional but equally crucial indicators such as Lipoprotein (a) or Lp(a), and C-Reactive Protein (CRP).

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Study Results on Women

The study analyzed data from nearly 30,000 American women who participated in the Women’s Health Study. These women, with an average age of 55 at the start of the study, were followed for 30 years, and it was found that approximately 13% of them experienced a major cardiovascular event.

However, by adding the measurement of Lp(a) and CRP, the results were even more shocking. Women with elevated levels of Lp(a) showed a 33% greater risk of developing heart disease, while those with high levels of CRP had a 70% greater risk.

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Importance of Lipoprotein (a) and C-Reactive Protein

Lp(a) is a type of fat in the blood that, unlike LDL, is largely inherited and does not respond significantly to dietary interventions. This biomarker contributes to the risk of heart disease by promoting plaque formation in the arteries, which can lead to serious cardiovascular events.

The inclusion of these biomarkers in cardiovascular risk assessments could identify individuals who would otherwise go unnoticed in traditional evaluations.

Implications for Prevention and Treatment

The findings of this study are not only relevant for women but also have significant implications for men's cardiovascular health.

Although the research focused on women, the biological mechanisms behind heart diseases are similar in both genders. Therefore, incorporating the measurement of Lp(a) and CRP in routine assessments could allow doctors to identify and treat at-risk men who do not present traditional risk factors.

This could transform the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, improving the long-term health of all patients.

As Ridker emphasizes, “you cannot treat what you do not measure,” highlighting the importance of these new biomarkers in the detection and prevention of heart diseases.