Individuals diagnosed with severe Covid-19 infections during the first wave of the pandemic may be at twice the risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to a new study. The study, published this week in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology and supported by the National Institutes of Health, found that the increased risk could last as long as three years.
The study found that those who have ever contracted Covid-19 are twice as likely to suffer heart attacks, strokes and death compared to those who have never been infected. Additionally, for those hospitalized due to the virus, the risk is up to four times higher.
According to Dr Hooman Allayee, the study’s lead researcher, the cardiovascular threats from severe Covid-19 are similar to those from type 2 diabetes. “Cardiovascular mortality trends between 2010 and 2019 declined steadily. Then suddenly, between 2020 and 2022, ten years of progress was completely wiped out by Covid-19.” ABC News quoted Dr. Allayee says so.
The findings particularly highlight the risks associated with different blood groups, showing that individuals with blood groups A, B and AB are more vulnerable to increased cardiovascular complications due to Covid-19, while those with blood group O show a lower risk.
The study used data from the UK Biobank, which includes mainly older, wealthier and mainly white participants. However, similar studies in other demographic groups have shown similar results, Dr. Allayee said.
Dr. Highlighting the crucial role of vaccinations, Allayee stated: “Regardless of which vaccine you received, just six months after the vaccination or booster, the risk of heart attack or stroke decreased. But immunity wanes over time, which is why you need boosters. “
Individuals who have had severe Covid-19, especially those requiring hospitalization, are urged to consult their healthcare providers about the potential long-term health consequences of the virus. “It’s not going away, so we need to start talking about it. Stay up to date on your vaccinations and boosters and get regular checkups,” Dr. advised. Allayee.