Young adults are at a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis, a condition that can lead to heart disease and stroke. This is due to the fact that their arteries are more susceptible to damage from factors such as high cholesterol and blood pressure, which can be caused by an unhealthy lifestyle and poor diet.
Researchers at the National Center for Cardiovascular Research (CNIC) have found that young people’s arteries are more vulnerable to damage due to these factors. This may be because they are less exposed to aging, which can weaken the artery walls and make them more prone to inflammation and plaque buildup.
To address this issue, the study suggests that doctors should begin controlling risk factors at an earlier age. This could involve implementing primary prevention strategies such as lifestyle modifications, such as diet changes, reducing alcohol consumption, lowering salt intake, or using medications if necessary.
The results of the study emphasize the importance of early intervention and control of risk factors in young adults as a preventive measure. The authors recommend screening for subclinical atherosclerosis and aggressive management of risk factors in order to alleviate the global burden of cardiovascular disease. They suggest screening for cholesterol or atheroma plaques in the carotid or femoral arteries to identify those at risk and begin aggressive risk factor management.
It is estimated that 30% of people between 40 and 45 years old have some form of atherosclerosis in their arterial segments. This underscores the importance of taking preventive measures early on in life in order to reduce the risks associated with this condition later on.
