We know that differences in genes can make a big difference when it comes to a wide variety of diseases and conditions. But a new report in the journal Nature finds that these differences can affect the body even in a very subtle way.
Researchers found that certain small genetic differences between individuals can contribute to small differences in blood pressure that can actually increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Two studies called the global bpgen and charge looked at genetic markers in over 63,000 people and they pinpointed genes that actually played a role in the pumping of the heart and control of blood pressure. Each of ten genetic variants had a small affect on the risk of heart disease, about one percent according to the report. But when ten of these genetic variants were examined there was a 34% increased risk in stroke and 21% in heart attacks.
Medical Reports - Week of 10/12/09
KYW medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough talks about diabetes causing serious vision problems, sleep apnea putting drivers at risk, the mediterranean diet, understanding vaccines and controlling hypertension.(3:39)
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