Revolutionizing Heart Health: How SCAPIS Aims to Prevent Heart Attacks Before They Occur
Every year, approximately 8,000 individuals under the age of 70 experience their first heart attack, with over 1,000 fatalities reported from these incidents. In response to this alarming statistic, Göran Bergström, Chief Physician at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, is determined to reduce the impact of heart disease by the year 2030.
Göran Bergström is not just a pivotal medical figure; he also spearheads SCAPIS, the most extensive heart study globally, which is revolutionizing our understanding of cardiovascular health. This Swedish initiative unites six universities and university hospitals to study 30,000 residents, focusing on heart and lung diseases with the ultimate aim of predicting and preventing such life-threatening conditions.
"I focus on identifying fully healthy individuals who might be at significant risk of a heart attack, without showing any symptoms," explains Bergström. His quest is to find tools that can unveil these hidden risks, making the SCAPIS study particularly exciting.
Among the various participants examined, SCAPIS researchers explore changes in the heart and blood vessels that signify a potential risk for heart attacks. Alarmingly, more than 40% of the 30,000 individuals studied exhibit detectable changes. While most of these changes are minor, one in 20 has larger issues, completely unaware of their jeopardy. Identifying these individuals can be expensive, but researchers are investigating simpler and cost-effective tests, potentially requiring just a blood sample.
"If we can identify these individuals, we can offer preventive measures to avert heart attacks. This typically involves lifestyle modifications, but access to innovative medications is also vital," Bergström states. He highlights the significant advantage of early detection and intervention, emphasizing the need to find and assist those living with undiagnosed risks.
The envisioned breakthrough is discovering an affordable and straightforward method for screening high-risk individuals, perhaps through blood analysis. If SCAPIS can deliver a smart screening approach, Bergström aims to eliminate 20 to 30% of individuals within the high-risk zone.
Conducting a study as expansive as SCAPIS requires substantial financial investment. The Heart-Lung Foundation is the primary funder, and Bergström insists that every contribution is crucial for advancing research. While current technology allows measuring various parameters in blood samples, the limitations of funding hinder the possibility of measuring everything the researchers desire.
"I believe ideas for solutions will emerge soon, but it’s the funding that will enable us to take the next steps in this essential research," concludes Göran Bergström.
To contribute to this life-saving research and help prevent heart attacks before they happen, consider making a donation of 50 SEK. Every bit counts towards advancing the vital work being done in heart health.
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