Now a blood test to predict if you’re going to have a sudden cardiac arrest!

A researcher has found that a simple blood test can predict a person’s risk for sudden cardiac death. Samuel C. Dudley , M.D., Ph.D, chief of cardiology at the CVI, said that the primary prevention model for at-risk patients in the U.S. is to implant an ICD before a cardiac event happens. While it’s better to be safe, this has led to widespread overuse of ICDs throughout the U.S. and abroad. Dudley asserted that with this blood test, they can refine the need for such a device, and instead implant the cardiac defibrillators only in the most severe cases of sudden cardiac death risk.

The new blood test is in a pilot phase and will be validated in a large, multi-site trial led by Dudley and other researchers at Lifespan’s CVI anticipated to start this fall. The study has been published online in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Tips to keep heart disease at bay

Kick the butt

The chemicals found in tobacco can damage your heart and blood vessels, leading to narrowing of the arteries, which in turn can lead to a heart attack. It also increases your heart rate and blood pressure. Even occasional or ‘social smoking’ is dangerous and increases the risk of heart disease. The good news is that no matter how long you have been smoking, you will feel better, and begin reaping rewards as soon as you kick the habit. 

Eat healthy for your heart

One of the starting points is to revamp your diet and make smart substitutions such as switching to heart-healthy cooking oils like canola oil that is high in mono and polyunsaturated fats which help in reducing the risk of coronary artery disease. Canola oil also contains omega-3 fatty acids, a type of polyunsaturated fat, which may decrease your risk of heart attack, protect against irregular heartbeats and lower blood pressure.  Limit your intake of salt and sugar as excessive consumption can lead to high blood pressure or cholesterol. Add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet. 

Just move it

Avoid leading a sedentary lifestyle; exercising daily is a must, even if it is for 30-45 min. Regular physical activity helps you control your weight and reduce your chances of developing conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, which may put a strain on your heart. Go for a walk; try some yoga, dance or aerobics to stay active, upbeat and positive. Your exercise sessions don’t have to be strenuous, even taking the stairs instead of the elevator counts! 

ps- this is only for information, always consult you physician before having any particular food/ medication/exercise/other remedies.

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