What's Happening?
A study published in the European Heart Journal suggests that Covid-19 infection, particularly in women, may lead to accelerated aging of blood vessels, equivalent to five years. The research, led by Professor Rosa Maria Bruno from Université Paris Cité, involved 2,390 participants from 16 countries, including the U.S. The study measured vascular age using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and found that those infected with Covid, even mildly, had stiffer arteries compared to those who were not infected. The effect was more pronounced in women and those experiencing long Covid symptoms. Vaccinated individuals showed less arterial stiffness than unvaccinated ones.
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Why It's Important?
The findings highlight a potential long-term cardiovascular risk associated with Covid-19, particularly for women. Stiffer blood vessels increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attack. Understanding the vascular effects of Covid-19 is crucial for developing preventive measures and treatments to mitigate these risks. The study underscores the importance of monitoring cardiovascular health in Covid-19 survivors and may influence public health strategies and medical guidelines regarding post-Covid care.
What's Next?
Professor Bruno and her team plan to continue monitoring the participants to determine if accelerated vascular aging leads to increased heart attacks and strokes. This ongoing research could inform future healthcare policies and interventions aimed at reducing cardiovascular risks in Covid-19 survivors. Additionally, the study may prompt further investigation into gender differences in immune response and vascular health post-Covid.
Beyond the Headlines
The study raises questions about the long-term health implications of Covid-19 and the need for targeted healthcare strategies for women. It also suggests potential benefits of vaccination in reducing vascular aging, which could influence vaccination campaigns and public health messaging.
