Silent Atherosclerosis: A Hidden Threat Unveiled
New research reveals that silent atherosclerosis begins in early adulthood and escalates with age, highlighting the need for early detection.
57.1% of adults show signs of silent atherosclerosis.
Prevalence increases significantly with age, especially in men.
Imaging techniques could enhance early detection and treatment.
A recent study presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2026 has uncovered alarming findings regarding silent atherosclerosis, which was detected in individuals as young as 18. The REACT study analyzed 16,808 adults aged 18 to 70 from Denmark and Spain, revealing that 57.1% exhibited signs of this condition, with prevalence rising sharply as age increases.
The research highlighted distinct patterns based on sex, with men showing earlier signs of disease compared to women, who experienced a significant increase during midlife. The study suggests that conventional cardiovascular risk assessments may overlook substantial cases of silent atherosclerosis, particularly in younger individuals. Researchers advocate for enhanced imaging techniques to facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment, potentially reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the future.
