Which risk factor was most prevalent in cardiovascular events according to the research?

High blood pressure (hypertension) was the most significant contributor, found in over 93% of individuals experiencing heart attacks or strokes.

Does the study suggest heart attacks happen without any warning signs?

No, the study refutes this, finding that 99% of cardiovascular events are linked to at least one of the four major risk factors.

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99% of Heart Events Linked to Major Factors

Q: What are the four main risk factors for heart attacks identified by the study?

The study identified high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and tobacco use as the four primary risk factors.

10 Jan

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Summary

Nearly all cardiovascular events link to four risks.
High blood pressure is the leading cause.
Prevention through lifestyle changes is crucial.

99% of Heart Events Linked to Major Factors

A comprehensive international study involving over 9 million adults in the United States and South Korea has found that nearly all major cardiovascular events are preventable. Researchers confirmed that 99% of heart attacks, strokes, and other serious cardiac incidents are linked to four common health risk factors: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and tobacco use. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology in 2025, challenges previous notions of cardiovascular events occurring without warning.

High blood pressure emerged as the most significant contributing factor, identified in over 93% of individuals who experienced a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure. Even in younger women under 60, over 95% of cardiovascular events were associated with at least one of these four risk factors, highlighting the pervasive nature of these issues across different demographics.

Experts emphasize that the focus must remain on controlling these modifiable risk factors through early detection, regular screening, and effective management. This approach is deemed more critical than pursuing less treatable or non-causal factors, ultimately aiming to significantly reduce the incidence of life-threatening heart conditions.