A new scientific study states that there is a stress gene that could be associated with an increased risk of death from heart attack or other heart disease. This study indicates that stress can directly increase the risk of heart problems. Your estimates indicate that patients with heart problems Problems with this type of gene are 38% more likely to have a stroke or die of heart disease.
A team of scientists at Duke University has identified that changing a single letter in the DNA of the human genome is responsible for greater vulnerability to stress. Patients who had this genetic change had a 38% increased risk of heart attack or other cardiovascular disease The results were maintained even after scientists took into account other factors such as age, obesity and smoking.
- As a result of these findings.
- Scientists say stress management techniques and drug therapies could reduce heart disease and related deaths.
According to Dr. Redford Williams, Director of the Center for Behavioral Medicine Research at Duke University School of Medicine, this study represents a first step towards identifying specific genetic variants, where people are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In his own words, “this is a step towards the day when we can identify people based on this genotype who are at increased risk of developing heart disease in the first place. “
Identifying people with this genetic modification could lead to life-saving interventions. In the study group, which included 6,000 people with heart disease, 10% of men and 3% of women had this genetic change associated with poor emotional stress management.
Upon discovering that there was a possible mechanism behind this relationship, these scientists proposed the solution to the problem, either by modifying behavior or, if necessary, with medications, some lifestyle changes can reduce stress, such as maintaining a balanced diet and exercising regularly. , which can help people feel more empowered to meet the demands of life.
In this regard, Professor Jeremy Pearson of the British Heart Foundation asks people who feel nervous and concerned about their stress levels to consult their doctor.