A recent study has revealed that a simple blood test can significantly predict long-term cardiovascular outcomes in women. The study focused on three key biomarkers: high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a). These biomarkers contribute to 5-year and 10-year cardiovascular risk predictions, each representing unique pathways for potential treatment.
Researchers measured these biomarkers in over 27,000 women in the United States, with participants followed over a span of 30 years. The average age of the women at the start of the study was 54.7 years. During the three-decade follow-up period, 3,662 major cardiovascular events were recorded.
The findings suggest that extending preventive strategies for atherosclerotic cardiovascular events beyond the conventional 10-year risk estimates could be beneficial. While hs-CRP is a marker of inflammation, LDL cholesterol is linked to lipid-related risk, and lipoprotein(a) highlights genetic and additional risk factors. Together, these biomarkers provide a more detailed prediction of cardiovascular outcomes.
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a critical marker of inflammation in the body. Elevated hs-CRP levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. Inflammation is a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis, where arteries harden and narrow due to plaque buildup. High hs-CRP levels indicate ongoing inflammation, which can worsen cardiovascular disease, making it a valuable predictor of future cardiovascular issues.
LDL cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, contributes to plaque formation in the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. It plays a significant role in the development of atherosclerotic plaques, which can obstruct blood flow, leading to heart attacks or strokes. Monitoring LDL levels is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk and guiding treatment decisions, such as lifestyle changes or medication.
Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol in the blood and is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, even in individuals with normal LDL cholesterol levels. Elevated Lp(a) levels can lead to plaque formation and arterial narrowing, increasing cardiovascular risk. Lp(a) is particularly significant because its levels are largely determined by genetics and are less influenced by lifestyle changes compared to LDL cholesterol.
When the researchers assessed all three biomarkers together, they found that participants with the highest levels had a more than 1.5 times increased risk of stroke and over 3 times increased risk of coronary heart disease compared to women with the lowest levels. Although this study focused on women, the researchers believe similar results would likely be found in men.
"In recent years, we've gained a better understanding of how increased inflammation levels can interact with lipids to heighten cardiovascular disease risks," said Ahmed AK Hasan, program director at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). "This insight explains why lower levels of these markers are often better for heart health."
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)