Unveiling the Hidden Dangers: How Common Viruses Could Increase Your Cardiovascular Risk
Did you know that some everyday viruses might be quietly raising your risk of heart attacks and strokes? A recent meta-analysis of 155 observational studies reveals a startling connection between viral infections and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study, led by a researcher from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), uncovers how influenza, COVID-19, hepatitis C, and herpes zoster (shingles) significantly increase the chances of major cardiovascular events in the weeks following infection. Even viruses that linger in the body, like HIV, can contribute to long-term cardiovascular risks.
But here's where it gets intriguing. While the link between viruses and cancer is well-established, the connection to cardiovascular disease is less understood. The study highlights how these infections trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation and blood clotting, which can have lasting effects on heart health. Interestingly, the risks associated with HIV, hepatitis C, and shingles are lower than those of influenza and COVID-19, but they still pose significant clinical relevance due to their prolonged presence in the body.
The findings, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association (AHA), emphasize the importance of integrated preventive measures, especially for adults with traditional CVD risk factors. Vaccines, it seems, might play a crucial role in preventing cardiovascular disease, offering a powerful tool in our arsenal against these hidden viral threats.
