[WORLD] A recent study suggests that addressing health and lifestyle factors could prevent thousands of cardiac arrests—instances where the heart unexpectedly stops beating.
The research, which examined data from over 15,000 participants across North America and Europe, found that moderate consumption of champagne or white wine, eating more fruits, maintaining a positive mood, staying at a healthy weight, and controlling blood pressure were all linked to a reduced risk of cardiac arrest. This discovery reinforces the growing body of evidence suggesting that small, daily lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on long-term health outcomes.
Researchers noted that even moderate alcohol intake, particularly from beverages like champagne and white wine, was associated with a lower risk of heart-related emergencies. However, they cautioned that excessive drinking remains a significant risk factor for heart disease.
The study, published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, also suggested that individuals with higher levels of education appeared to be less susceptible to cardiac arrest. While education itself may not directly prevent heart failure, experts argue that those with higher education levels often have greater awareness of healthy lifestyle choices and are more likely to seek timely medical attention. Conversely, poor sleep habits and a lack of physical activity were found to increase the risk. Experts speculate that higher education may be linked to better health literacy and greater access to preventive healthcare, ultimately lowering risk.
Still, they emphasize the importance of addressing socioeconomic factors—such as income and healthcare access—that also influence heart health outcomes. "Education is certainly a protective factor, but we must also tackle systemic barriers to ensure equitable health opportunities," said Dr. Elena Martinez, a cardiologist not involved in the study.
Beyond individual choices, the study also stresses the importance of building supportive environments where healthier habits are easier to maintain. For example, promoting access to affordable fruits and vegetables, as well as creating spaces for physical activity, can have a positive impact on public health. The research also highlighted the critical role of sleep hygiene. Individuals who consistently slept fewer than six hours per night were found to have a 20% higher risk of experiencing cardiac arrest compared to those who enjoyed seven to eight hours of sleep.
Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to increased levels of stress hormones and inflammation, both of which contribute to cardiovascular strain. Experts are now calling for policies that encourage better sleep environments, such as reducing light pollution and promoting work-life balance, as part of a broader effort to reduce heart disease risk.
In response to these findings, public health advocates are urging targeted interventions, such as community wellness programs and workplace health initiatives, to encourage healthier lifestyle choices. "Prevention is crucial," said lead researcher Dr. Jonathan Hayes. "Making simple changes in diet, exercise, and stress management could save countless lives each year." As a result, there is growing momentum to invest in public health campaigns that focus on cardiovascular health education, while also advocating for broader systemic changes to create environments that support healthier living.
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