Cardiologist provides advice to males on preventing heart attacks
In a recent discussion, cardiologist Alexei Utyin highlighted the factors contributing to the higher rate of heart attacks in men compared to women.
Men, Utyin explained, lack the hormonal protection provided by estrogen, making their arteries more susceptible to damage. This, combined with a higher prevalence of traditional risk factors such as smoking, unhealthy diets, and greater exposure to stress, increases the cardiovascular risk in men.
Moreover, men tend to accumulate more visceral fat, which is linked to atherosclerosis and heart disease, while women typically store fat subcutaneously, which is less harmful. Men may also delay seeking medical attention for symptoms, leading to worse outcomes after the onset of heart problems.
However, after menopause, the risk in women tends to increase as the protective effects of estrogen diminish.
Utyin also warned that vaping, though considered a temporary strategy for quitting regular cigarettes, carries significant health risks for minors and non-smoking adults. Studies show that vapes are less harmful than regular cigarettes, but their use by these groups still poses significant health risks, including the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and endothelial dysfunction.
On the topic of diet, Utyin emphasized that the best source of omega-3 remains two servings of baked fish per week. Chia and flax seeds, walnuts, and seafood are also sources of these fatty acids. However, from an evidence-based medicine perspective, omega-3 has little impact on cardiovascular mortality.
The REDUCE-IT study, however, showed that Vascepa, a drug based on EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), reduces cardiovascular risks in patients with high risk and elevated triglycerides taking statins. Other omega-3 supplements have not shown the same effectiveness, and in 2020, the STRENGTH study found that omega-3 may increase the risk of arrhythmia.
Utyin urged that fighting harmful habits, managing weight, and increasing physical activity could potentially increase lifespan and reduce the gap between men and women's heart attack rates. He also expressed concern over the use of vapes by minors, emphasizing the need for education and regulation to protect the younger generation.
In Russia, only 30% of women and 14% of men achieve target blood pressure levels, highlighting the need for improved public health initiatives and education.
In conclusion, understanding the factors contributing to heart health is crucial in combating this widespread issue. By making informed choices, seeking medical advice, and adopting healthier lifestyles, we can work towards reducing the disparities in heart attack rates between men and women.
- Cardiologist Alexei Utyin discussed the factors that contribute to a higher rate of heart attacks in men compared to women, stating that men's arteries are more susceptible to damage due to a lack of hormonal protection from estrogen.
- Utyin pointed out that men, due to factors such as a higher prevalence of traditional risk factors, accumulation of visceral fat, and delayed seeking of medical attention, face increased cardiovascular risk.
- In the context of diet, Utyin advised that the best source of omega-3 remains two servings of baked fish per week, and highlighted the potential risks of omega-3 supplements, as shown in studies like the STRENGTH study.
- Utyin underscored the importance of fighting harmful habits, managing weight, and increasing physical activity to potentially increase lifespan and reduce the cardiovascular risk gap between men and women, while also expressing concern over the use of vapes by minors.
