By A recent study has found that even mild COVID-19 infections can increase the risk of heart attacks by promoting the growth of plaque in arteries. Researchers discovered that the infection can lead to the rapid growth of plaque in coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. This can ultimately lead to heart attacks, even in individuals who did not require hospitalization for their COVID-19 infection.The study suggests that inflammation caused by COVID-19 is likely the reason behind the growth of arterial plaque.
According to Dr. Junbo Ge, director of cardiology at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, “Inflammation following COVID-19 can lead to ongoing plaque growth, particularly high-risk, noncalcified plaques.” This means that individuals who have had COVID-19 may be at increased risk for heart attacks, acute coronary syndrome, and stroke for up to a year.The findings of the study highlight the importance of monitoring cardiovascular health in individuals who have had COVID-19. As Dr. Ge notes, “It’s crucial to anticipate a heavier cardiovascular patient burden in the future as most infected individuals recover from acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.” This means that healthcare providers should be prepared to manage an increased number of cardiovascular cases in the coming years.
