People with these types of issues have hearts that can age faster than the rest of their bodies—sometimes by decades. And knowing this could help doctors stop heart disease in its tracks, and even spot trouble before symptoms start, essentially serving as a “game-changer” for keeping hearts healthier for a longer time.
“Seeing that bigger picture helps doctors spot people whose several small risks are quietly adding up, so they can step in early with stronger lifestyle advice or medicines instead of treating each diagnosis on its own,” Garg explains.
While “mass screening” of the general population isn’t practical, however, cardiac MRI is the “gold standard,” radiation-free way for checking heart size and function for those already investigating their cardiovascular health. Researchers suggest, for those in that position, with a doctor ordering a routine heart MRI, that the images be run through the new study’s model.
Then, if you learn your heart is older than you, the most important question, says Garg, is “‘How do I make my heart’s age match my own?’ through healthy blood pressure, good glucose control, regular activity, and a sensible weight. Our formula simply makes that conversation clearer.”
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