What's Happening?
A study published in the European Heart Journal indicates that COVID infections may accelerate the aging of blood vessels, particularly in women. The research, led by Professor Rosa Maria Bruno, suggests that COVID could lead to early vascular aging, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and heart attack. The study involved 2,390 participants from 16 countries, assessing their vascular age using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity measurements.
Why It's Important?
The findings highlight the long-term health implications of COVID infections, emphasizing the need for early identification and prevention strategies for cardiovascular diseases. The study suggests that women may be more susceptible to vascular aging due to differences in immune system responses. This research underscores the importance of monitoring vascular health in COVID survivors and implementing lifestyle changes and medical interventions to mitigate risks.
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What's Next?
Researchers will continue to follow participants to determine if accelerated vascular aging leads to increased cardiovascular events. The study calls for identifying modifiable targets to prevent vascular aging in future COVID surges. Healthcare providers may focus on reducing risk factors through lifestyle changes and medical treatments to protect against heart attacks and strokes.
