All articles tagged with #arterial plaque
A new study suggests that bacteria from the mouth, particularly viridans streptococci, may enter arterial plaques, form biofilms, and contribute to inflammation and plaque rupture, potentially increasing the risk of heart attacks. While this does not imply causation, it highlights a possible link between oral health and heart disease, emphasizing the importance of good dental hygiene alongside traditional cardiovascular risk management.
A study in Italy found that the presence of microplastics in the fatty deposits in people's arteries was associated with a four-and-a-half times higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or death. The research, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, revealed that patients with microplastics in their plaque also had higher levels of inflammatory markers. The study highlights the potential health risks associated with microplastic exposure and calls for action to reduce the use of plastics, especially single-use items, at both individual and policy levels.