Study Identifies 56 Risk Factors That Could Prevent 63 Percent of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Cases - Video

A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology reveals that 56 non-clinical risk factors, including lifestyle, physical measures, psychosocial factors, and environmental influences, could help prevent up to 63% of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) cases. SCA, a leading cause of death worldwide, claims about 60,000 lives annually in Canada alone. The study's lead author, Huihuan Luo, PhD, of Fudan University, emphasizes that improving modifiable risk factors, especially lifestyle habits, can significantly reduce SCA risk.

Using an exposome-wide association study combined with Mendelian randomization, the research uncovered surprising findings. It found that eliminating the worst 40%–63% of risk factors, particularly lifestyle-related ones, could prevent a substantial portion of SCA cases. Factors like positive mood, weight management, blood pressure control, and even moderate champagne or white wine consumption emerged as protective elements. "Surprisingly, higher consumption of champagne and white wine showed a cardioprotective effect, challenging the notion that only red wine offers these benefits," said Nicholas Grubic, MSc, and Dakota Gustafson, PhD, in the accompanying editorial.

The study also revealed an inverse relationship between computer use and SCA risk, though further analysis clarified that this likely reflects socioeconomic or occupational differences rather than a direct protective effect.

The researchers stress the importance of transitioning from reactive to preventive strategies to reduce the SCA burden, particularly in resource-limited settings. Identifying and targeting modifiable factors could lead to significant improvements in public health outcomes.

References: Establishment and Validation of Prediction Models for Non-curative Resection After ESD for Early Gastric Cancer