A recent study published in Radiology found that severe COVID-19 infection can lead to extensive inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events. The research, led by Fudan University, included 803 patients who underwent serial coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) between September 2018 and October 2023.
The study analyzed data from 690 COVID-19 patients and 480 uninfected patients, showing that those infected with COVID-19 had a higher risk of developing high-risk plaques in their coronary arteries. This increased risk was seen even after adjusting for vaccination status, age, and other factors.
Over the course of 1 year, COVID-19 infection was associated with an accelerated progression rate of total coronary atherosclerotic volume, as well as a greater advancement of noncalcified segments of atherosclerotic lesions. This can lead to increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
The study’s findings also highlight the potential long-term cardiovascular risks associated with COVID-19 infection. Experts warn that patients who have had severe COVID-19 should be aware of this increased risk and take steps to mitigate it.
According to Dr. Junbo Ge, senior author of the study, “COVID-19 is initially characterized by acute lung injury and respiratory failure… However, emerging evidence indicates COVID-19 also involves an extreme inflammatory response that can affect the cardiovascular system.” This inflammation can lead to ongoing plaque growth in high-risk plaques, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke for up to a year.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/covid-19/report-severe-covid-can-catalyze-arterial-plaque-growth-sparking-deadly-heart-problems