Heart Scans Reveal Hidden Risk in Athletes: Study
When it comes to staying healthy, many of us turn to exercise as a primary form of protection against chronic diseases. And for good reason â regular physical activity has been shown to improve longevity, reduce the risk of heart disease, and even boost mental well-being. In fact, endurance athletes, such as marathon runners and triathletes, are often considered to be in top physical condition, with a lower risk of heart disease compared to the general population.
However, a recent study published in Circulation, a leading medical journal, suggests that even highly active individuals may be hiding a hidden risk â elevated coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores.
CAC scores are a measure of the amount of calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. High CAC levels are a well-established predictor of heart disease risk, indicating the presence of plaque buildup in the arteries. This buildup can lead to narrowing or blockage of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.
The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, used data from the National Runger Longitudinal Study to examine the relationship between exercise and CAC scores in endurance athletes. The study included 2,500 participants, all of whom were aged 18-55 and had a body mass index (BMI) below 30.
The researchers found that even among these highly active individuals, 12.5% had elevated CAC scores, indicating a significant amount of plaque buildup in their coronary arteries. What’s more, the study revealed that the risk of high CAC scores increased with age, with older athletes being more likely to have elevated scores.
So, what does this mean for endurance athletes and the general population alike? According to Dr. Michael Lauer, the study’s lead author, “Our findings suggest that even highly active individuals, including endurance athletes, may have elevated CAC scores, which can predict heart risk. This highlights the need for medical attention and screening, even in individuals who are considered fit and healthy.”
In other words, just because you’re an endurance athlete doesn’t mean you’re immune to the risks of heart disease. In fact, the study’s findings suggest that athletes may be more likely to develop cardiovascular disease due to a combination of factors, including:
- Age: As we age, our risk of heart disease increases, regardless of our level of physical activity.
- Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in our risk of heart disease, and athletes may be more likely to have a family history of cardiovascular disease.
- Lifestyle factors: Athletes may engage in behaviors that increase their risk of heart disease, such as a high-stress lifestyle, poor diet, or inadequate sleep.
- Undiagnosed underlying conditions: Athletes may have underlying conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, that are not detected through routine screenings.
So, what can you do to reduce your risk of heart disease, even as an endurance athlete? Here are a few tips:
- Get regular screenings: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, including blood tests to monitor your cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood sugar.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Prioritize a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to reduce your risk of heart disease.
- Manage stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your blood vessels healthy.
In conclusion, while exercise is an important factor in maintaining good health, it’s not a guarantee against heart disease. The study’s findings highlight the need for medical attention and screening, even in highly active individuals. By prioritizing regular screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and managing stress, we can reduce our risk of heart disease and stay healthy for years to come.
Source:
https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/fit-bodies-calcified-arteries
Note: The source URL provided is the news URL where the study was first published.
