Unhealthy living habits and obesity could potentially accelerate heart aging by 5 to 45 years.
Evaluating heart health is vital to detect issues early and pinpoint effective treatments.
A recent study focused on developing a method to estimate the functional age of people's hearts compared to their biological age.
The research incorporated cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a potential means to examine the appearance and functioning of the heart. The findings suggested that several health conditions, such as obesity and atrial fibrillation (AFib), and an unhealthy lifestyle could hasten the heart's functional aging.
Participants from various locations across three countries were involved in this retrospective observational study. Researchers compared a healthy reference population of 191 participants with a testing population of 366 participants who exhibited at least one comorbidity, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity. Furthermore, a "preliminary external validation" cohort of 25 people was utilized.
Study authors, including Pankaj Garg, MD, PhD, noted several key findings. A heart that's 5 to 45 years older:
- A simple math formula uses information from heart MRI scans to assess heart age. Healthy participants' heart age corresponds with their real age. However, people with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, an irregular heartbeat, or excess weight may have hearts that look significantly older.
- The average functional heart age was about 4.6 years older among people with health issues compared to healthy individuals. Those with extreme obesity (BMI of 40 or higher) had a functional heart age 45 years older than their chronological age. Similarly, people with atrial fibrillation displayed a higher functional heart age compared to healthy participants.
- Heart aging was sometimes higher for other comorbidities in specific age groups. For participants between the ages of 30 and 69, those with high blood pressure showed a greater functional heart age compared to healthy participants within the same age bracket. Conversely, in the 70 to 85-year-old group, participants with diabetes and high blood pressure had lower functional heart ages than healthy participants in the same age range.
With limitations such as estimations and potential survivor bias, this work signifies a promising step in effective cardiac health monitoring. Understanding the functional age of the heart could help motivate patients to improve their lifestyles, identify those at risk for future cardiac events, and make diagnoses earlier when preventative measures are more effective.
- Seniors with heart conditions might find motivation in learning their heart's functional age being significantly older than their biological age.
- Cardiovascular fitness is vital to maintaining heart health, as a sedentary lifestyle can hasten functional heart aging.
- Other heart diseases, such as atrial fibrillation (AFib), can contribute to an older functional heart age.
- Disease, including chronic diseases like diabetes, can speed up the heart's aging process.
- Sports and regular physical activities can help manage obesity, a condition that contributes to a faster functional heart age.
- The heart is a vital organ, and its health plays a crucial role in one's overall health and wellness.
- Medicine and science have been working to develop methods for effective cardiovascular health monitoring.
- Older adults are more susceptible to heart-related issues due to factors like a sedentary lifestyle and age-related medical conditions.
- Fitness and exercise can help reduce the estimated functional age of the heart, making it more beneficial for seniors to maintain an active lifestyle.
- This research could potentially be extended to estimate the functional age of other organs, such as the brain or lungs, due to the use of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Contraindications and potential risks associated with specific medical treatments or therapies need to be considered when assessing an individual's heart health.
- Cancers and respiratory conditions can also impact one's cardiovascular health, necessitating the need for comprehensive health assessments.
- Eye health and hearing are often overlooked aspects of overall health, but they are critical to one's well-being and can affect cardiovascular health indirectly.
- Mental health is linked to cardiovascular health, as stress can increase the risk of heart disease.
- Skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, can be managed through various therapies and treatments, which may improve heart health.
- Weight management is crucial for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system, especially for those struggling with obesity.
- Neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis can have indirect effects on cardiovascular health, making it essential to monitor both aspects of health.
- CBD, a compound found in cannabis, has been studied for its potential heart benefits, but more research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety.
- Medicare often covers heart health-related services, making it essential for seniors to understand their benefits and take advantage of available resources.
- Cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, can have adverse effects on the heart, necessitating close monitoring during and after treatment.
- Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or reducing alcohol consumption, can help improve cardiovascular health.
- Fashion and beauty trends often prioritize health and wellness, with many promoting active lifestyles and mindful eating habits.
- The food and drink industry plays a significant role in one's health, as poor nutrition can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
- Family dynamics can influence one's overall health, as supportive relationships often lead to healthier choices and better care.
- Home and garden maintenance tasks can be a form of physical activity, contributing to heart health.
- Healthy cooking involves choosing nutrient-rich foods and preparing meals in a way that supports heart health, making it essential to prioritize healthy cooking when managing one's lifestyle and cardiovascular health.
