COVID-19 may hasten the growth of atherosclerotic plaques in arteries supplying blood to the heart, potentially increasing the risk of heart attacks and failures. Researchers analyzed data from 803 patients who underwent regular scans before and during the pandemic, finding that those infected with COVID-19 experienced faster plaque buildup and inflammation compared to non-infected individuals.
The study suggests that even mild COVID-19 infections may increase cardiovascular risk by accelerating susceptible plaque progression and coronary inflammation. Experts warn of a potential “heavier cardiovascular patient burden in the future” as the global number of confirmed cases approaches 800 million. To mitigate this risk, researchers call for integration of COVID-19 into cardiovascular preventative care pathways, with potential treatment strategies such as anti-inflammatory medications and statins under investigation.
Source: https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/covid-19-may-accelerate-dangerous-hardening-arteries