Heart Attack – Genetic or Acquired?

Medical specialists debate whether to test patients for heart problems if they have no genetic risks.  Which patient is at risk – the genetic factored or the acquired symptomatic?  The answer is both.  Reduced blood supply can cut off blood and oxygen to the heart, resulting in severe heart damage or death.  The task is to diagnose the problem early enough to properly treat it.

Genetic or inherited factors are beginning to form recognizable patterns.  Those persons who should be monitored include patients with inherited high blood pressure, low levels of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) or high levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL).  Type 1 diabetics and individuals with a family history of heart disease should be tested frequently.  After women pass menopause age, their heart disease risk increases up to the earlier level already attained by men.

A faulty gene found in some families may make individual members heart attack prone, according to research by the Cleveland Clinic, which identified MEF2A, a gene which may be important in artery health.  Canadian studies also agree that this gene, dealing with hardening of the arteries, is important. An Icelandic firm, deCode, has identified a different gene, FLAP, and has medical solutions in human trials presently.    Described as a very small step in the right direction, the gene studies can alert patients and their doctors to begin modifying lifestyles and treatment plans to ensure a longer, healthier life.  Scientists are saying that both activity and genetics can play a part in prevention of heart problems.