New Study Reveals Key Lifestyle Changes Could Prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest
By Tim Newman | Fact-checked by Jill Seladi-Schulman, Ph.D.
A groundbreaking study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology has identified 56 non-medical risk factors associated with sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a condition that results in the heart suddenly stopping or failing to pump blood effectively. Globally, SCA accounts for approximately 2 million cases annually.
The researchers, examining data from over 500,000 adults, found that between 40% to 63% of SCA instances could potentially be prevented by addressing these risk factors. Notably, the study highlights lifestyle modifications as yielding the largest proportion of preventable cases.
Among the most significant lifestyle risk factors identified were smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity, and excessive television watching. Surprisingly, regular consumption of alcohol, particularly red wine, was linked to a reduced risk of SCA. Conversely, regular physical activity proved highly beneficial.
Psychosocial factors such as feelings of lethargy, loneliness, and depression were associated with increased risk, while social engagement showed protective effects. The research underscores the importance of addressing both physical and psychological health to mitigate SCA risks.
Dr. Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist, emphasized that prevention strategies must evolve from a reactive to a proactive approach. He advocated for comprehensive lifestyle changes, including healthier diets and regular exercise.
Despite these promising insights, limitations exist; the study focuses on associations rather than causality, and different types of SCA may involve distinct risk factors. The authors stress the need for a broader preventative strategy to effectively combat sudden cardiac arrest’s substantial burden on healthcare systems.
Dr. Nicholas Grubic and Dr. Dakota Gustafson, who contributed an editorial alongside the research, affirm that shifting focus from acute response to prevention is crucial, albeit challenging. They call for enhanced public health initiatives to facilitate these changes.
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