A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that assessing a person's 30-year risk of heart disease can be improved by expanding routine blood tests. Beyond traditional LDL cholesterol measurements, including lipoprotein (a) and C-reactive protein levels can provide a more comprehensive risk assessment. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 30,000 women, found that high levels of these biomarkers significantly predicted long-term cardiovascular risk. The findings were also presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2024. Although the research focused on women, the results are likely applicable to men as well. Click here for article.
Expanded Risk Assessment: The study proposes that incorporating tests for lipoprotein (a) and C-reactive protein alongside LDL cholesterol can better predict a person’s long-term risk of heart disease.
Long-Term Prediction: High levels of LDL cholesterol, lipoprotein (a), and C-reactive protein were found to increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and coronary heart disease over a 30-year period.
Early Intervention: The study supports early testing in individuals, ideally in their 30s or 40s, to identify hidden risk factors and enable early intervention.
Need for Comprehensive Testing: While traditional risk factors like obesity and high blood pressure are important, the inclusion of these additional biomarkers can reveal less obvious risks, particularly in populations like women, who may be underdiagnosed.
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