Early Screening for Women's Heart Disease Risks Urged

Researchers suggest starting evaluations and preventive medications for women's heart disease risks in their 30s. The study highlights the effectiveness of blood tests in predicting cardiovascular issues over three decades. New guidelines are needed to focus on early intervention, particularly for cholesterol and inflammation markers.

Researchers have recommended that evaluations and preventive measures for women's heart disease should begin in their 30s, rather than after menopause, as is currently practiced. This was the conclusion of a study presented at the European Society of Cardiology annual meeting in London.

The study demonstrated that simple blood tests can estimate a woman's cardiovascular disease risk over the next 30 years. 'This is good for patients first and foremost, but it is also important information for manufacturers of cholesterol-lowering drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, and lipoprotein(a)-lowering drugs,' said Dr. Paul Ridker of Brigham and Women's Hospital.

Current guidelines suggest not considering preventive therapies for women until their 60s and 70s. However, the study recommends updating these guidelines to incorporate early intervention strategies. The findings, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, showed that women with high levels of certain biomarkers were significantly more at risk of major cardiovascular events and strokes.

(With inputs from agencies.)