How ancestry can shape your cardiovascular destiny?

Our hearts beat to the rhythm of our lives, tirelessly pumping blood to keep us alive. However, this vital organ’s health isn’t solely determined by our lifestyle choices; it also has deep roots in our family tree. The intricate interplay between genetics and heart health is a fascinating subject that sheds light on how your ancestry can shape your cardiovascular destiny.

Dr Aparna Bhanushali, Head of Growth & Scientific Support, HaystackAnalytics sheds more light on the issue.

UNDERSTANDING GENETIC INHERITANCE

Family trees often bear the indelible marks of cardiovascular health. If heart disease runs in your family, it might not be a coincidence. Almost 30-50% of the contribution to cardiovascular disease is by genetic factors, with behavioural, environmental and infectious factors contributing the remaining. Certain genetic mutations and variations in our DNA that contribute to heart conditions are often passed down through generations. Conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and arrhythmias can have strong familial patterns.

One notable example is familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder that causes exceptionally high cholesterol levels. Individuals with this condition have a significantly increased risk of developing heart disease at a young age, and it often runs in families.

ETHNICITY AND HEART HEALTH

Your ethnic background can also be a significant determinant of heart health. Different populations have unique genetic profiles that can affect their susceptibility to certain cardiovascular conditions. For instance, African Americans are more likely to develop hypertension and at a higher stroke risk. South Asians have a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease, even at lower levels of obesity, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

Researchers have identified specific genetic markers associated with these ethnic disparities in heart health. These findings highlight the importance of understanding your ancestry when assessing your risk of heart disease.

THE ROLE OF GENES IN HEART HEALTH

Genetic factors influence heart health in various ways. Here are some key aspects:

advertisement

• Cholesterol Metabolism: Genes can affect how your body processes cholesterol. Variations in genes responsible for cholesterol regulation can lead to high levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, a significant risk factor for heart disease. In Indians especially, high triglycerides (another type of lipid) are an independent risk factor for CVD. Other than diet, genetics also plays a role in the levels of this lipid.
• Blood Pressure Regulation: Genetic factors can influence blood pressure regulation. Mutations in certain genes may make it harder for your body to maintain healthy blood pressure levels, increasing the risk of hypertension.
• Heart Rhythm: Genetic variations can disrupt the normal electrical signalling in the heart, leading to arrhythmias. Conditions like long QT syndrome and atrial fibrillation can be hereditary.
• Blood Clotting: Some genetic mutations can promote excessive blood clotting, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Inflammation: Genes can also impact the body’s inflammatory response. Chronic inflammation is linked to atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

HARNESSING GENETIC INFORMATION

Understanding your genetic predisposition to heart disease can empower you to take proactive steps to protect your cardiovascular health. Genetic testing can provide insights into your risk factors, allowing you to make informed lifestyle choices and seek appropriate medical care.

However, it’s essential to remember that genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, and stress management continue to be crucial in maintaining heart health. Even if you have a family history of heart disease, a healthy lifestyle can mitigate many associated risks.