Study Shows Young Adults May Have Early Heart Disease

High blood pressure and cholesterol in young adults could increase the risk of heart disease later in life, scientists say, regardless of exposure to these risk factors later in life.

Using data from more than 36,000 individuals, researchers modeled the complete trajectory of risk factors from age 18 to follow-up.

They used this information to estimate independent risk factor exposure badociations in young adults – aged 18 to 39 and later – aged 40 and over, with the risk of coronary heart disease, heart failure and stroke. 'stroke.

The researchers calculated averages of systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in children. younger and older adults.

High LDL levels in young adults were badociated with a 64% higher risk of coronary heart disease, regardless of subsequent exposures.

According to the data, high SBP and high ADR in young adults were independently badociated with an increased risk of heart failure by 37% and 21%, respectively.

Although no exposure in young adults was independently badociated with a stroke, high levels of SBP or high BPD elevated later in life were strong predictors.

Andrew Moran, an badociate professor at Columbia University, said, "Our findings add to the accumulated evidence that the young adult is at a critical time when high blood pressure or cholesterol are particularly harmful.

"Maintaining optimal levels of blood pressure and LDL cholesterol throughout adult life could yield substantial benefits for the prevention of cardiovascular disease throughout life."

AAP