Cardiovascular disease, which contributes to mortality worldwide, is influenced by genetic factors and lifestyle choices. A recent study published in Nature Human Behavior focused on a Chinese population sample and found that individuals with a higher genetic risk for cardiovascular disease who adopted an unfavorable lifestyle were at greater risk for early-onset cardiovascular outcomes. However, adopting a favorable lifestyle was associated with a significant reduction in early-onset coronary artery disease. Lifestyle interventions were particularly beneficial for younger individuals with a higher genetic risk for cardiovascular disease.
The prospective cohort study included 96,400 Chinese adults and focused on genetic risk factors for coronary artery disease, ischemic stroke, and intracerebral hemorrhage. Lifestyle factors examined included smoking, dietary habits, physical activity, and body mass index. Participants were categorized based on genetic and lifestyle risks, with those at high genetic risk and unfavorable lifestyles having the highest risk for cardiovascular disease outcomes. The study revealed that favorable lifestyle changes could significantly reduce the risk of early-onset coronary artery disease, ischemic stroke, and late-onset coronary artery disease in individuals with high genetic risk.
Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a cardiologist not involved in the study, emphasized the importance of lifestyle modifications in reducing cardiovascular disease risk, especially for individuals with a high genetic predisposition. He highlighted the potential impact of targeting lifestyle improvements at younger patients with higher genetic risk to achieve better public health outcomes. However, the study has limitations, including its focus on a specific population group, reliance on self-reported data, and inability to conduct separate analyses for younger participants. Future research could explore these findings in diverse populations to validate the results.
Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar, a cardiologist, noted the clinical implications of the study data, emphasizing the need for personalized prevention strategies tailored to individuals with high genetic risk and unhealthy lifestyles. Regular health checkups, monitoring of core cardiovascular risk factors, and collaboration with healthcare providers are crucial in optimizing cardiovascular health. Lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation, healthy weight management, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity can help reduce modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Taking charge of heart health involves making practical lifestyle changes. Working with healthcare providers to prioritize lifestyle modifications, monitoring key cardiovascular risk factors, and developing personalized prevention plans can help individuals optimize their cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of adverse events. Emphasizing healthy lifestyle choices, including smoking cessation, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity, is essential in managing cardiovascular risk factors. Consulting with healthcare providers about lifestyle changes and potential medications can further support individuals in improving their modifiable risk factors and overall heart health.
