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Association between plasma homocysteine and coronary artery disease in older persons
1Hebrew Hospital Home, Bronx, New York 10475, USA.
Insights
High homocysteine and low vitamin levels are linked to coronary artery disease (CAD) in older adults. This study highlights the importance of these nutrient levels for cardiovascular health in aging populations.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Nutritional Science
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of mortality in aging populations.
- Nutritional factors, including homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12, are implicated in cardiovascular health.
- Understanding the relationship between these biomarkers and CAD prevalence is crucial for preventative strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between plasma homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 levels and the prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in older men and women.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Measurement of plasma homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 levels.
- Comparison of biomarker levels between individuals with and without diagnosed CAD.
Main Results:
- Higher plasma homocysteine levels were found in 43% of older men with CAD compared to 18% without CAD.
- Elevated plasma homocysteine was observed in 37% of older women with CAD versus 12% without CAD.
- Low plasma folate and vitamin B12 levels showed a similar association with increased CAD prevalence.
Conclusions:
- High plasma homocysteine and low plasma folate and vitamin B12 levels are significantly associated with a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease in older adults.
- These findings suggest that homocysteine and B vitamin status are important indicators for cardiovascular risk assessment in the elderly.
- Further research into the therapeutic potential of correcting these deficiencies for CAD prevention is warranted.
Abstract:
The data demonstrate that high plasma homocysteine levels and low plasma folate and vitamin B12 levels are associated with a higher prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in older men and women. Elevated plasma homocysteine levels were observed in 43% of the older men with CAD versus 18% of the older men without CAD, and in 37% of the older women with CAD versus 12% of the older women without CAD.