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99% of Heart Events Linked to Major Factors
10 Jan
Summary
- Nearly all cardiovascular events link to four risks.
- High blood pressure is the leading cause.
- Prevention through lifestyle changes is crucial.
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.
