Preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest Through Modifiable Risk Factors

A comprehensive study has identified 56 non-clinical risk factors associated with sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), highlighting the significant potential for prevention through targeted lifestyle and environmental modifications. The research, published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, reveals that up to 63% of SCA cases could be avoided by improving unfavorable health and environmental profiles. These risk factors encompass a broad range of areas including lifestyle habits, physical health indicators, psychosocial conditions, socioeconomic status, and local environmental factors.

The study utilized an exposome-wide association approach combined with Mendelian randomization to assess causal relationships between these risk factors and SCA, based on data from the UK Biobank. Results indicated that by eliminating the worst third of these risk domains, 40% of SCA cases could be prevented, while removing the two worst thirds could prevent up to 63%. Lifestyle changes stood out as particularly impactful, contributing to the prevention of 13-18% of cases depending on the level of intervention.

Interesting findings included the protective effects associated with moderate champagne and white wine consumption, as well as higher fruit intake, maintaining a positive mood, weight management, blood pressure control, and better educational attainment. The research also noted an inverse relationship between computer use and SCA risk, which likely reflects underlying socioeconomic differences rather than a direct protective effect.

Experts emphasize that shifting focus from reactive to preventive strategies is crucial to reducing the global burden of SCA. Developing public health initiatives that target these modifiable factors can lead to more effective and sustainable prevention efforts, especially in resource-limited settings. This study underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach that integrates lifestyle, environmental, and social interventions to combat this leading cause of death worldwide.

For more details, see the original study: [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2025.02.027]