Alert! If you're 18 to 29, you may already have artery disease
In young adults, heart disease can sneak into the heart, neck and leg arteries quietly, causing what's called silent atherosclerosis. It doesn't trigger symptoms and evaluating your risks for heart woes based on blood pressure, cholesterol and lifestyle factors usually misses it. But a new study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that taking a look at the arteries of folks ages 18 to 29 using ultrasound reveals that one in 13 of them have cardiovascular disease, often in a single peripheral location (meaning not yet in the heart arteries).
If you don't take steps to protect your cardiovascular system -- and clear out your arteries if you already have disease -- as a young adult, silent atherosclerosis can evolve into more pronounced multi-artery disease. You may be surprised by an unexpected, life-risking cardiac event.
Ask your doctor about getting an ultrasound scan at your next annual check-up (You get one, don't you?). And starting today, embrace a heart-loving lifestyle that makes you younger, stronger, healthier and happier as you grow chronologically older.
You know the drill: It's exercise, healthy nutrition, stress management, quality sleep, flossing regularly, and a posse and purpose. You can get the details on how to do that at 4YOUngevity.com and my blog at michaelfroizenmd.substack.com.
Psst! Older folks don't get off the hook on this one: The study found that up to 57% of them may have silent atherosclerosis. So if you think you're heart-healthy, ask for a scan and take the steps mentioned above to stay younger and stronger, longer.
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 drmikerealage@gmail.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.
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