ArcaMax

Around 28 million folks with premature heart disease have a family history of cardiovascular disease (CVD). But many folks don't know they carry genetic risk factors for cardio woes and they lose the opportunity to retool their lifestyle and receive medical treatments to control or reverse the dangers.

Now, a study in JACC that looked at the genetic risk factors (there are more than 50) in more than 53,000 people has found a way to pin down just how much your genes could put you at risk for CVD and its consequences.

Researchers recommend combining info on your genetic risk factors with clinical, environmental, and family history -- creating what is called an Integrated Polygenetic Risk Score or PRS. That can let you and your doctor in on just how much at risk you are for coronary heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, AFib, deep vein blood clots (VTE), thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA), high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol and lipoprotein (a).

The good news? Modifying your poor lifestyle choices can tamp down your genetic risks! A 2016 study found that even a moderate effort to upgrade your lifestyle reduces the genetic risk for coronary artery disease by 50%.

So, if you have a family history of heart disease, get a genetic screen and have your doctor combine that data with info on your lifestyle habits, environmental conditions, and other medical problems so you can reduce your risks. Also, discuss the anti-aging and heart-protecting benefits of therapeutic plasma exchange (info at Lifespan-Edge.com/research). That's advice I recommend you take to heart!

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.