Genetics and heart disease: What you need to know | – Times of India

Genetic factors play a crucial role in the development of heart disease. Studies show that up to 60-70% of heart disease cases are attributable to genetic factors. While lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise can also increase risk, genetics Can increase a person’s susceptibility to heart disease and determine the severity of the condition.
Understand the relationship between heredity and genes heart disease It is crucial to identify high-risk patients and develop targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
Gene mutations responsible for regulating cholesterol Leads to increased blood cholesterol levels, a major risk factor for heart disease.

Variations in genes play a role in the regulation of blood pressure and are associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension. hypertensionthe leading cause of heart disease.
Genetic factors can also cause congenital heart disease, including heart valve problems, holes in the heart, or abnormal blood vessels. Many of these diseases are caused by mutations in specific genes involved in heart development.
Dr. Sunip Banerjee, founder, CEO and chief cardiologist at KHLC, said one of the main ways genetic factors contribute to heart disease is through inherited disorders such as familial hypercholesterolemia, which causes elevated cholesterol levels in the blood. are high and increase the risk of heart disease at a young age. Other genetic disorders include cardiomyopathy, aneurysms, and congenital heart defects. Genetics also play a role in how our bodies respond to certain medications or treatments. Depending on a person’s genetic makeup, they may respond differently to the drug, which may affect its effectiveness in lowering cholesterol levels.
In addition, researchers continue to work to discover new genes and genetic variants that play a role in the development of heart disease. This could help identify individuals at higher risk and develop more effective ways to prevent and treat these diseases. One promising area of ​​research is the use of genetic testing to assess a person’s risk for heart disease. This involves analyzing a person’s DNA to identify genetic variations that may increase their risk. In addition to genetic testing, research on targeted gene therapy is also ongoing. This involves using certain drugs or techniques to modify or correct specific genetic mutations that cause heart disease. The approach holds promise for preventing and treating heart disease at the genetic level.

Arindam Sen, director and chief executive of Heartnet, said genetic testing could help identify individuals at higher risk of heart disease. Timely screening can identify specific genetic variants that may increase the risk of certain diseases, allowing individuals to take early preventive measures and make necessary lifestyle changes. While a person cannot change his genes, he can take preventive measures and make lifestyle changes to reduce his overall risk of heart disease.
While we cannot change our genetic makeup, understanding our genetic risk factors and making active lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the likelihood of these diseases. Early identification and intervention, as well as regular checkups and screenings, are critical to managing genetic risk factors and improving overall heart health.