By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. We have known for many years that having a big belly is associated with increased risk for heart attacks, diabetes, certain cancers, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, disability and premature death. We now also have data that links having a large belly to increased risk for dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, a…
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. In the biggest advance in knowledge about the prevention of heart attacks since the discovery of statins, researchers at Harvard Medical School have shown that blocking inflammation helps to prevent heart attacks (New Engl J of Med, August 27, 2017) and cancers (Lancet, August 27, 2017). You can help to protect…
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. VO2max can be used to predict a person’s risk of premature death from a heart attack. Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology have developed a simple way to estimate a person’s VO2max, his maximal ability to take in and use oxygen (Med Sci Sports Exerc, November 2011;43(11):2024-30).
By Gabe Mirkin, M.D. Recent research shows that three years of taking aspirin daily is associated with a small reduction in heart attacks only in people who have had previous heart attacks, but not in those who had not had a previous heart attack (Clin Cardiol, May 2017). Previous studies have shown similar results (Am J…
Editor’s Note: Dr. Mirkin’s article today began as a response to one of our Premium Members. Greg C. wrote us: “I ride about 4,500-5,500 miles a year. This is the first year I’ve been monitoring my blood pressure after riding and noticed the systolic drops significantly after my rides. I typically run 110-120 over 70-80,…
