Addressing Detection and Prevention Gaps to Reduce First-Time Heart Attack Risks

Despite widespread use of traditional risk assessment tools for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, the global incidence of heart attacks continues to climb. Recent research, led by Nick Nurmohamed in collaboration with Mount Sinai and published in the European Heart Journal, highlights significant gaps in detecting at-risk individuals before their initial myocardial infarction (MI).

Analyzing data from nearly 5 million Americans, the study reveals deficiencies in identifying early symptoms and implementing preventive therapies. Notably, younger patients aged 60 or below, especially men, often exhibit fewer documented risk factors or symptoms and are less likely to consult primary care providers. This subgroup is also more prone to experiencing severe ST-elevation MIs.

Conversely, older adults and women tend to have more recorded risk factors and symptoms but still encounter inadequate preventive measures. These disparities emphasize the urgent need for more effective diagnostic tools and proactive management strategies.

Nurmohamed emphasizes the importance of developing advanced blood tests and imaging techniques to identify high-risk individuals earlier, even in the absence of symptoms. The prototype approaches currently under investigation aim to enhance early detection, potentially saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.

This research underscores a critical gap in cardiovascular prevention efforts and advocates for innovative solutions to better predict and prevent the first occurrence of heart attacks. Early intervention and improved risk stratification could significantly decrease the burden of this leading cause of death worldwide.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-gaps-vulnerable-heart.html