Heart disease rarely announces itself. For many, the first warning comes too late, even when they believed they were managing their health.
New research now suggests that prevention might begin earlier than previously assumed, potentially shifting how doctors approach cardiovascular risk.
Earlier action
A study led by researchers at Mass General Brigham indicates that a cholesterol-lowering drug, typically used after heart disease is diagnosed, may also benefit high-risk individuals before any visible artery damage appears.
The findings, reported by Science Daily and published in JAMA, were presented at the American College of Cardiology’s annual meeting.
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Measurable impact
The trial followed more than 3,600 patients with diabetes considered at high risk but without confirmed atherosclerosis. Participants received either evolocumab or a placebo alongside standard treatments.
Over nearly five years, those given evolocumab experienced a 31% lower risk of a first major cardiovascular event, including heart attack or stroke.
At the same time, LDL cholesterol levels dropped significantly, with reductions of about half compared to the control group.
- 31% lower risk of first events
- Around 50% lower LDL levels
- Similar safety outcomes in both groups
What it means
Heart disease remains the leading global cause of death, and lowering LDL cholesterol is a central prevention strategy.
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The results suggest that more aggressive treatment earlier in the disease process could help reduce risk before damage occurs.
Researchers caution that further studies are needed to confirm whether the findings apply to broader populations.
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