Victoria AdolphusA recent study published in Radiology reveals a shocking connection between COVID-19 and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, even after recovery.¹ The research suggests that COVID-19 fuels dangerous plaque buildup in the arteries, making heart-related complications more likely.
The Silent Attack on the Heart
COVID-19 isn’t just a respiratory illness; it can also silently attack the heart. The virus accelerates plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes long after recovery. This inflammation can lead to ongoing plaque growth, particularly in high-risk, noncalcified plaques.
Key Findings:
- Plaque Growth: Plaque volumes grew faster in SARS-CoV-2 patients, with a higher incidence of developing into high-risk plaques (20.1% vs. 15.8%).
- Coronary Inflammation: Patients with COVID-19 had a higher risk of coronary inflammation (27% vs. 19.9%).
- Target Lesion Failure: COVID-19 patients had a higher risk of target lesion failure (10.4% vs. 3.1%), indicating an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
The Need for Ongoing Heart Health Monitoring
The study’s senior author, Dr. Junbo Ge, emphasizes that these effects persist during the aftermath of COVID-19, regardless of comorbidities such as age, hypertension, and diabetes. “Effective management strategies for these patients are imperative,” Dr. Ge said.
What’s Next?
The findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection may exacerbate cardiovascular risk by accelerating the progression of susceptible plaques and coronary inflammation. However, a more comprehensive understanding of the biological mechanisms is required to formulate preventative and therapeutic approaches.
Stay vigilant, and prioritize your heart health!
