New Study Promotes Heart Disease Reversal
A new study suggests that coronary heart disease risk may be reversed with proper therapy. The study presented by the American College of Cardiology suggests that patients treated with a cholesterol lowering drug may experience reduced coronary artery blockages. The study conducted over a two-year period suggests that arteriosclerosis declines in patients treated with Rosuvastatin, a high dose cholesterol lowering medication.
Studies in the past have failed to link disease regression with medication use. This study is important because it implies even patients with significant risk of coronary heart disease and associated side effects may have options available to them.
The trial involved administering 40mg of rosuvastatin to patients daily. Typically patients prescribed this drug take five to ten mg every day.
Also good news, the study suggests that LDL cholesterol levels in patient’s regressed by more than 50% when taking high doses of the medication.
Heart Disease Statistics
This study is vital given the grim statistics associated with heart disease. Studies suggest that more than 23 million people in the United States alone are diagnosed with heart disease every year. Heart disease results in more than 690,000 deaths every year or roughly 241 deaths of each 100,000 people. That means heart disease ranks as the number one killer in the United States.
Heart disease is linked with multiple symptoms and side effects including high blood pressure and coronary artery disease. The American Heart Association has linked heart disease with increasing risk of stroke, congenital heart failure and heart attacks. Cardiovascular disease is so prevalent in fact it kills more people than the next 7 causes of death in the United States combined (according to the American Heart Association).
Your best bet is to try to prevent heart disease if possible. This study however, presents exciting new information suggesting that even if you have heart disease, you may be able to recover somewhat with few side effects.
Reduce Your Risk
Coronary heart disease results when fatty substances or plaque builds up in the arteries, hindering the flow of blood and oxygen to and from the heart. Serious problems including heart attack are associated with this condition.
Coronary heart disease is hereditary, but also the result of lifestyle factors including being overweight, having diabetes or engaging in unhealthy behaviors including smoking or not exercising.
Fortunately there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of coronary artery disease. These include:
- Avoid or quit smoking.
- Check your blood pressure.
- Exercise regularly.
- Consider multi vitamin and mineral supplements.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in whole foods. Limit your intake of fatty and processed foods that are often high in cholesterol.
Remember prevention is often the best medicine. If you can avoid heart disease you are better off in the long run. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors for heart disease and work together to decide on a plan of action that will promote your optimal health and well being.
