Latest news with #CARDIA
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Your heart sends warnings 12 years before a heart attack; here's the sign most people miss and preventions steps you need to know now
Heart attacks are usually framed as sudden emergencies, but research shows they commonly follow a slow, silent buildup that begins long before pain or hospital alarms. A major analysis of CARDIA participants found that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) — things like brisk walking, cycling or swimming — often starts a steady decline about 12 years before a cardiovascular diagnosis, with the pace accelerating in the final two years. Experts including Dr. Sudhir Kumar (Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad) warn that this gradual loss of stamina is frequently misread as normal ageing; spotting it early creates a large window for prevention, screening and targeted lifestyle or medical interventions that can avert major cardiac events. Physical activity often starts falling 12 years before heart disease: Study The paper titled 'Trajectories of Physical Activity Before and After Cardiovascular Disease Events in CARDIA Participants' analysed physical activity data collected across decades from participants first enrolled in 1985–86. Researchers used repeated activity assessments (multiple timepoints through midlife) to model long-term trajectories and compare people who later developed cardiovascular disease (CVD) with those who did not. The key quantitative findings: MVPA began to decline, on average, roughly 12 years before a first CVD event; declines steeped in the two years immediately before diagnosis; and low activity levels tended to persist after the event, widening the gap versus peers who remained CVD-free. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo The study used CARDIA's longitudinal design to reveal this long preclinical window rather than a single cross-sectional snapshot. CARDIA tracked moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) — activities that raise heart rate and breathing noticeably (brisk walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, sports). In practice, MVPA estimates came from validated activity questionnaires administered repeatedly; these give a life-course view rather than a one-off reading. Because changes emerged gradually over a decade, the timing matters: a single clinic visit that notes 'low activity today' can miss whether someone is on a downward trajectory. Longitudinal decline, especially an accelerating fall in MVPA is the important signal researchers flagged. Changes that raise heart disease risk A sustained drop in MVPA is not just a lifestyle statistic; it maps to several physiologic changes that raise cardiovascular risk: Cardiac deconditioning: Less habitual activity reduces cardiac stroke volume and aerobic capacity, so daily exertion becomes harder. Endothelial and vascular changes: Lack of movement promotes poorer endothelial function and favours atherogenic plaque formation. Metabolic effects: Inactivity increases the risk of weight gain, insulin resistance and adverse lipid changes — all major drivers of atherosclerosis. Inflammation and autonomic imbalance: Sedentary behaviour links to low-grade inflammation and less favourable autonomic (heart rate variability) profiles. Together, these pathways mean a progressive drop in MVPA both reflects and contributes to the biological processes that eventually cause heart attacks or strokes. For public guidance, major health bodies emphasise staying active because of these mechanistic links. MVPA declines over time reflect race and gender inequalities in heart health CARDIA authors also examined demographic patterns. While MVPA tended to decline across all groups with age, the trajectory and baseline levels differed by sex and race. Notably, the study found that Black women recorded consistently lower activity levels across adulthood, and certain groups showed more continuous declines — patterns that can concentrate cardiovascular risk in already disadvantaged populations. These findings imply prevention must be tailored: population-level recommendations are necessary but insufficient without culturally and structurally appropriate supports. Think longitudinally, not just cross-sectionally. A single 'low activity' datapoint is less informative than a trend; clinicians should ask about changes in routine and stamina over years. Use risk tools alongside functional history. Tools such as the ASCVD Risk Estimator help assess 10-year risk, but trend information about MVPA can flag patients who might benefit from earlier screening or intervention. Act early. Declining MVPA constitutes a window for action — lifestyle counselling, targeted exercise support, and if indicated, medical risk-factor treatment (BP, lipids, glycemia). The earlier the intervention, the greater the chance of preventing an event. How to evaluate a patient's steady decline in stamina If a patient reports a steady, unexplained fall in activity or stamina, reasonable initial steps include: Basic cardiovascular screening: blood pressure, BMI/waist measure, lipid panel, fasting glucose/HbA1c. Calculate ASCVD or other validated risk scores (for patients in the appropriate age range) to guide intensity of preventive therapy. Functional assessment: a simple timed walk or effort-tolerance discussion can be very revealing; refer for formal stress testing only if clinical suspicion of ischemia is present. Consider social drivers: ask about work, caregiving, safety, access to safe walking spaces and time pressures — these often explain activity declines and must be addressed. From prevention to recovery: Practical guidelines for safe and sustainable cardiovascular fitness Public health and cardiology bodies recommend at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity) as a baseline goal for adults; more gives additional benefit. Practical tips to meet and sustain MVPA: Break activity into short, consistent bouts (eg. , 30 minutes, 5 days/week). Choose enjoyable activities (walking, cycling, swimming, dance) to improve adherence. Build movement into routines (active commuting, stairs, standing breaks at work). Set trajectory goals rather than single-day targets (track weekly MVPA minutes). Address barriers (childcare, unsafe neighbourhoods, pain) with tailored solutions or supervised programs. If someone does have a cardiovascular event, the evidence strongly supports early referral to structured cardiac rehabilitation (CR). CR combines monitored exercise, risk-factor management, nutrition and psychosocial support; it reduces mortality and improves functional recovery. Typical guidance: begin activity gently (short walks) in hospital recovery, progress under supervision to 30+ minutes of aerobic activity several times weekly, and incorporate supervised outpatient CR when available. How to track activity trends (tools that help detect a worrying decline) Wearables and phone apps: track MVPA minutes and weekly totals. Look for a sustained downward slope over months/years, not day-to-day noise. Simple logs: a weekly activity diary or 6-minute walk distance recorded every few months provides a low-tech trend. Clinical prompts: clinicians should routinely ask, 'Compared with two years ago, do you find doing your usual activities harder?' A 'yes' can prompt further evaluation. Also Read | Boost liver function with this gut-friendly no-bake date bar supporting overall wellness; gastroenterologist shares easy homemade recipe
Economic Times
2 days ago
- Health
- Economic Times
Heart attack clues start about 10 years earlier, warns CMC Vellore-trained doctor. And most people miss them
Synopsis Research shows that signs of an impending heart attack can start nearly ten years before the event, often going unnoticed. Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist trained at CMC Vellore, highlights that a steady decline in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity begins about 12 years prior to cardiovascular disease diagnosis, with a sharper drop two years before. Studies, including the CARDIA research published in JAMA Cardiology, confirm these findings and emphasize the importance of maintaining regular physical activity throughout adulthood to reduce heart disease risk and support recovery after cardiac events. Heart Disease Clues Start Years in Advance — Most People Miss Them Heart attacks often catch people by surprise, but emerging evidence shows that warning signs can start nearly ten years before the event. Many individuals miss these early indicators because they are subtle and develop gradually over time. Declining physical activity, in particular, has been identified as a key early clue that signals the risk of future cardiovascular problems. This finding comes from experts, including Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist trained at CMC Vellore and currently practising at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad. Dr. Kumar points out in an X post that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA)—activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming—begins to fall around 12 years before cardiovascular disease is diagnosed. While some reduction in physical activity is normal with age, the decline is much sharper and more significant in those who later develop heart disease, especially in the two years before diagnosis. This pattern suggests that a steady drop in physical activity is more than a natural part of aging; it can be an early sign of underlying heart problems. — hyderabaddoctor (@hyderabaddoctor) The Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, published in JAMA Cardiology, echoes these findings. Researchers followed participants from young adulthood to midlife and observed that those who eventually suffered cardiovascular events showed a marked and steady decline in physical activity starting about 12 years before the event, with a faster drop in the last two years. The study also revealed that Black women had the lowest activity levels throughout adulthood and faced greater risks after cardiovascular incidents. Experts emphasize maintaining regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 150 minutes weekly throughout life. Dr. Kumar advises that waiting for a heart event before becoming active is too late. Instead, building and sustaining healthy activity habits early on is crucial to reducing risk. After any heart-related episode, gradual resumption of physical activity with medical guidance supports recovery and long-term heart health. Consistent physical activity remains the most effective way to prevent heart disease and improve outcomes after a cardiac event. Recognizing early clues like declining activity can prompt timely medical attention. Staying active throughout adulthood is essential for protecting heart health over a lifetime.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Heart attack clues start about 10 years earlier, warns CMC Vellore-trained doctor. And most people miss them
Early Decline in Physical Activity as a Red Flag — hyderabaddoctor (@hyderabaddoctor) Importance of Sustained Physical Activity Heart attacks often catch people by surprise, but emerging evidence shows that warning signs can start nearly ten years before the event. Many individuals miss these early indicators because they are subtle and develop gradually over time. Declining physical activity, in particular, has been identified as a key early clue that signals the risk of future cardiovascular finding comes from experts, including Dr. Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist trained at CMC Vellore and currently practising at Apollo Hospitals in Kumar points out in an X post that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA)—activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming—begins to fall around 12 years before cardiovascular disease is diagnosed. While some reduction in physical activity is normal with age, the decline is much sharper and more significant in those who later develop heart disease, especially in the two years before pattern suggests that a steady drop in physical activity is more than a natural part of aging; it can be an early sign of underlying heart Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, published in JAMA Cardiology, echoes these findings. Researchers followed participants from young adulthood to midlife and observed that those who eventually suffered cardiovascular events showed a marked and steady decline in physical activity starting about 12 years before the event, with a faster drop in the last two study also revealed that Black women had the lowest activity levels throughout adulthood and faced greater risks after cardiovascular emphasize maintaining regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for at least 150 minutes weekly throughout life. Dr. Kumar advises that waiting for a heart event before becoming active is too late. Instead, building and sustaining healthy activity habits early on is crucial to reducing risk. After any heart-related episode, gradual resumption of physical activity with medical guidance supports recovery and long-term heart physical activity remains the most effective way to prevent heart disease and improve outcomes after a cardiac event. Recognizing early clues like declining activity can prompt timely medical attention. Staying active throughout adulthood is essential for protecting heart health over a lifetime.
Time of India
03-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Diabetes? The one beverage women should ditch to slash the risk
In the modern world, where convenience often takes precedence over health considerations, women today face a silent but serious threat: one daily beverage choice that dramatically elevates diabetes risk. Drinking sugar‑sweetened or artificially sweetened sodas, diet sodas, and even fruit juices may seem harmless, but mounting evidence highlights their profound metabolic impact. These drinks pose significant health risks, particularly for women. In fact, consuming sugary beverages regularly can lead to various health issues, including an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Let's explore the detrimental effects of sugary drinks on women's health and find alternatives that are healthier and far better. The impact of sugary beverages on women's health Increased risk of type 2 diabetes: Regular consumption of sugary drinks is strongly linked to an elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes. These beverages cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels, leading to insulin resistance over time. For women, this risk is particularly pronounced. A study published in The BMJ found that avoiding sugary drinks was associated with a significantly lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes and related complications. In fact, the same study, based on women's health cohort data, revealed that switching one sugary drink a day to water or unsweetened alternatives cuts risk by ~7–10%. Moreover, meta‑analyses show that each 12‑oz soda per day increases diabetes risk by ~25%, and fruit juice by ~5%. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like นี่อาจเป็นโอกาสทองที่ดีที่สุดในรอบ 5 ปีสำหรับการเทรดทองคำ IC Markets อ่านเพิ่มเติม Undo Contribution to obesity: Sugary drinks are calorie-dense and provide little nutritional value. They contribute to weight gain by increasing overall calorie intake without promoting satiety. This is especially concerning for women, as obesity is a major risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. Heart disease risk: The consumption of sugary beverages is also linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The rapid absorption of sugar from these drinks can lead to elevated blood pressure and increased fat accumulation in the liver, both of which are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. How do these beverages disrupt metabolic health Rapid sugar flooding and liver impact: Liquid sugar bypasses fiber and protein, causing sudden blood sugar spikes. Repeated exposure taxes the liver, leading to fat buildup, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction. Gut dysbiosis from artificial sweeteners: Diet sodas with aspartame or sucralose may alter gut microbiota, impair metabolic signaling, and increase appetite – creating an unhealthy cycle. Structural marketing targeting women: Marketing strategies – 'light,' 'healthy,' or fruit‑associated packaging – particularly target women, subtly masking these drinks' risks. In fact, the CARDIA study (30 years, ~4,600 adults) tied high intake of diet beverages to elevated diabetes risk, even after controlling for lifestyle factors. Why women, specifically, should take notice Weight gain and body fat: Sugary beverages contribute to obesity – a well‑known diabetes risk factor. Hormonal fluctuations: Women undergo metabolic shifts over the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. Adding regular sugar/diet soda intake compounds blood sugar instability. Cardiovascular vulnerability: Women with diabetes face proportionally higher risk of CVD and mortality – a risk exacerbated by sugar‑laden drinks. What are the healthier beverage alternatives To mitigate the risks associated with sugary drinks, women can consider the following healthier alternatives: Water: As banal as it may sound, water is the healthiest beverage choice! It hydrates the body without adding any calories or sugars. Infusing water with slices of fruits like lemon or cucumber can add flavor without compromising health. Herbal teas: Herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, or hibiscus, are excellent alternatives. They are naturally free of sugars and can be enjoyed hot or cold. These teas also offer various health benefits, including improved digestion and relaxation. Unsweetened green tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity. Consuming unsweetened green tea can be a beneficial addition to a diabetes-preventive diet. Sparkling water with a splash of juice: For those who crave fizzy drinks, sparkling water with a splash of 100% fruit juice can provide the desired effervescence and flavor without the excessive sugar content. Sugary beverage linked to increased risk of colorectal cancer in women under 50: Study
Yahoo
29-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Experts Urge Caution as Study Links This Popular Drink to 2x the Risk of Diabetes
Experts Urge Caution as Study Links This Popular Drink to 2x the Risk of Diabetes originally appeared on Parade. There's nothing quite like a crisp diet soda on a hot day. It's cool, bubbly and somehow so refreshing. Add some lime and you've got a summertime treat. You can even make a dirty soda by adding a little cream. Yum! But a new study is shining light on diet soda's health effects, and they might not be as harmless as they seem. A new study has found that consuming artificially sweetened beverages, which are commonly marketed as the 'healthier' alternative to sugary drinks, could significantly increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers collected data on more than 4,654 adults in the 30-year-long Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. They assessed the diets of participants at the start of the study, then again after seven and 20 years. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 Researchers discovered that individuals who consumed the highest amounts of artificially sweetened drinks, like diet sodas or sugar-free flavored waters, were more than twice as likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who rarely drank them. That's a 129% increase in risk, raising serious questions about what we're really sipping on when we go 'sugar-free.'The study adds fuel to the growing debate around artificial sweeteners. Long considered a safer option for those watching their weight or blood sugar, these sugar substitutes may interfere with insulin sensitivity and disrupt gut health, which are two key factors in developing diabetes. While the beverages contain few or no calories, their long-term metabolic effects may not be so benign. Of course, sugary drinks aren't off the hook either. Regular sodas, sweetened teas and energy drinks remain one of the most well-documented contributors to rising diabetes and obesity rates worldwide. Even 100% fruit juices, which many perceive as healthy, can elevate blood sugar when consumed in excess. This new study challenges the widely accepted belief that diet drinks are a safe swap. And while more research is needed to pinpoint exactly how artificial sweeteners may influence insulin response, the evidence so far suggests that moderation—and even reconsideration—is warranted. So, what should you drink instead? Nutrition experts continue to recommend simple, no-frills hydration. Water remains the gold standard, but unsweetened tea and black coffee are also considered safe and beneficial for most people. Infused waters with fruit or herbs can offer a flavorful twist without the potential downsides of sugar or artificial sweeteners. I'm a daily Coke Zero drinker, but after this study, I may be willing to make a change. I do love iced tea!Experts Urge Caution as Study Links This Popular Drink to 2x the Risk of Diabetes first appeared on Parade on Jun 27, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 27, 2025, where it first appeared.
