Heart Attacks: A Synergistic web of Genes, Environment and Lifestyle
A heart attack , or myocardial infarction , is not merely a biological mishap caused by clogged arteries or poor lifestyle choices. It is increasingly understood as the end result of multiple interacting factors ranging from one’s genetic code to invisible pollutants in the air, from stressful urban living to rising global temperatures, and even poor oral hygiene. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) account for nearly 18 million deaths annually , with heart attacks forming a major share of this global burden. Genetic Predisposition: The Inherited Load While gene variants like 9p21, LDLR, PCSK9, LPA, and APOE contribute to cholesterol metabolism and vascular health, the gene-environment interaction matters more. People with a genetic predisposition can modify their risk through healthy lifestyle practices. Studies on epigenetic modifications show that air pollution, stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can switch on or off gene expressions associated with inflammation and atheroscle...