Paleopathology of cardiovascular diseases in South American mummies

Cardiovascular disease has emerged as the world's leading cause of death in the last century. An epidemiological focus of this disease that extends not only beyond the developed world but also far back into antiquity asks new questions about associated risk factors. Ancient mummies found in the Atacama desert are well preserved and show signs of cardiovascular disease as early as 1000B.C. in Peru and Chile.

Gross and histopathological examination of specimens shows atherosclerosis, cardiomegaly, endocarditis, and myocardial fibrosis.

In comparison to other ancient populations, less atherosclerosis has been noted in South American mummies. The chewing of coca leaves, a habitual cultural practice unique to the region, supports evidence of reduced cardiovascular risk among ancient people living in South America.