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Asthma could be a risk factor for heart failure

A study has shown a link between asthma and the risk of heart failure.


A study has shown a link between asthma and the risk of heart failure.

The research found a link between having asthma and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), a condition in which the part of the heart that pumps oxygenated-blood around the body is thickened and enlarged. LVH is a known risk factor for heart failure.

1,118 adults took part in the study, which was published in the journal, JACC: Heart Failure. Each participant filled in surveys about their health, including questions about whether they had experienced asthma. They were then also followed for a 10-year period, during which they were given ultrasound scans to check for LVH.

The scientists found that the people with a history of asthma were more likely to have LVH. This finding stayed the same, even when taking into account other factors, like age or whether a person smoked.

More research is now needed to understand why having asthma would affect a person’s heart health. However, the researchers say that the findings of their study could point towards new preventative treatment for people with asthma in light of their higher risk of heart failure, such as recommending lifestyle changes or medication.

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