Scientists pinpoint reason why 'healthy' people have heart attacks and strokes

 

Scientists have recently uncovered why some seemingly healthy people still suffer heart attacks and strokes despite having no obvious risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or smoking. Research shows that hidden dangers such as chronic inflammation and genetically driven cholesterol variants play a major role. One major culprit is high levels of C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), a marker of inflammation in the body. Even in people who appear healthy, elevated hs-CRP has been linked to a significantly higher chance of developing coronary heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular events. This means traditional risk checks often miss people who are silently at risk because inflammation isn’t routinely tested.

Another hidden risk is Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a), a type of “bad” cholesterol that is almost entirely determined by genetics and unaffected by lifestyle changes like diet or exercise. Around one in four people have elevated Lp(a), which increases the likelihood of clogged arteries, stroke, and even valve problems in the heart. Unlike standard cholesterol, it isn’t usually tested, leaving many unaware of their risk. These findings explain why “healthy” individuals can still fall victim to sudden cardiovascular events. Experts now recommend broader testing, such as hs-CRP and Lp(a), alongside lifestyle changes and, in some cases, preventive medication like statins to reduce hidden risks.

See also: The risks of developing metabolic syndrome