Could this simple blood test for a heart protein save your life?
- Replies 17
It’s no secret that as we age, our bodies go through a range of changes that affect our general health and well-being. That makes it even more important to look out for warning signs and be proactive about our health.
A group of researchers in the UK have revealed how a simple blood test for troponin, a heart protein, could be an important tool for keeping track of one’s health. The protein is normally used to rule out a heart attack, but new findings suggest it may be linked to a heightened risk of death among patients.
The study tracked 20,000 hospital patients who had a troponin blood test for any reason between June and August 2017. Out of the total patients, troponin levels were found to be high in 5.5 per cent of the participants (1085 patients).
Nine per cent (1782 patients) of those who took the troponin blood test died after a year, and 14 per cent (2825 patients) had died just over two years (809 days) later.
Somewhat unexpected was the further discovery that those with high troponin levels (45 per cent) were nearly four times as likely to die compared to those whose test results were within the normal range (12 per cent).
Moreover, high troponin level was independently associated with a 76 per cent heightened risk of death, not only from cardiovascular disease but other causes too. The most common cause of death was cancer (46 per cent), followed by cardiovascular disease (13 per cent).
To rule out the fact that some of those who took the troponin test could have died immediately from serious diseases, the study also excluded deaths that occurred within a month of testing.
Despite the concerning findings, the researchers were quick to stress that their study was observational and that no clear conclusion of cause-and-effect could be drawn from the data. At this stage, further research is needed to identify if this blood test could be useful for predictive purposes. But the results highlight how an outsider’s view–in other words, the analysis of test results–can often detect things that we can’t pick up ourselves.
Dear members, it’s important to have regular medical check-ups to make sure you’re in tip-top condition. As we age, even minor ailments can become serious, so don’t be afraid to inquire about a troponin blood test if you’re concerned. With simple preventative measures, like a blood test, you could be taking an important step to protect your health.
Often, our bodies may not come up with a trumpeting announcement about the little troublemakers brewing within, like having high troponin levels. Dismissing the value of routine check-ups is somewhat like refusing to check your car's oil until the engine burns out. A stitch in time, remember, saves nine.
Regular medical check-ups serve as your personal body scanners highlighting fluctuations, no matter how little, in your health parameters. Routine blood tests or blood pressure checks can detect early signs of diseases before they morph into serious health concerns.
However, it isn't just about the early detection of diseases. Consistent medical check-ups can also help gauge your risk factors for chronic diseases, evaluate the effectiveness of your current treatments, and even offer an excellent opportunity for you to nurture a proactive relationship with your healthcare provider.
With the invaluable insights we've gained from this research, it's more important than ever for us to prioritise regular health checks. This commitment will come with its own benefits, such as facilitating early interventions, promoting longevity, and improving your overall quality of life. It’s time we replace the 'I've been feeling fine, so I don't need a check-up' mentality with 'I plan on feeling fine, so I will get a check-up when I can.' So, what are your thoughts on this story, members? Tell us below!
A simple blood test for the heart protein troponin could be an important tool for members of our community. Image source: stefamerpik on Freepik.
A group of researchers in the UK have revealed how a simple blood test for troponin, a heart protein, could be an important tool for keeping track of one’s health. The protein is normally used to rule out a heart attack, but new findings suggest it may be linked to a heightened risk of death among patients.
Nine per cent (1782 patients) of those who took the troponin blood test died after a year, and 14 per cent (2825 patients) had died just over two years (809 days) later.
Somewhat unexpected was the further discovery that those with high troponin levels (45 per cent) were nearly four times as likely to die compared to those whose test results were within the normal range (12 per cent).
Moreover, high troponin level was independently associated with a 76 per cent heightened risk of death, not only from cardiovascular disease but other causes too. The most common cause of death was cancer (46 per cent), followed by cardiovascular disease (13 per cent).
To rule out the fact that some of those who took the troponin test could have died immediately from serious diseases, the study also excluded deaths that occurred within a month of testing.
Despite the concerning findings, the researchers were quick to stress that their study was observational and that no clear conclusion of cause-and-effect could be drawn from the data. At this stage, further research is needed to identify if this blood test could be useful for predictive purposes. But the results highlight how an outsider’s view–in other words, the analysis of test results–can often detect things that we can’t pick up ourselves.
It's important to have regular medical check-ups to make sure you’re in tip-top condition. Image source: Freepik.
Dear members, it’s important to have regular medical check-ups to make sure you’re in tip-top condition. As we age, even minor ailments can become serious, so don’t be afraid to inquire about a troponin blood test if you’re concerned. With simple preventative measures, like a blood test, you could be taking an important step to protect your health.
Often, our bodies may not come up with a trumpeting announcement about the little troublemakers brewing within, like having high troponin levels. Dismissing the value of routine check-ups is somewhat like refusing to check your car's oil until the engine burns out. A stitch in time, remember, saves nine.
However, it isn't just about the early detection of diseases. Consistent medical check-ups can also help gauge your risk factors for chronic diseases, evaluate the effectiveness of your current treatments, and even offer an excellent opportunity for you to nurture a proactive relationship with your healthcare provider.
With the invaluable insights we've gained from this research, it's more important than ever for us to prioritise regular health checks. This commitment will come with its own benefits, such as facilitating early interventions, promoting longevity, and improving your overall quality of life. It’s time we replace the 'I've been feeling fine, so I don't need a check-up' mentality with 'I plan on feeling fine, so I will get a check-up when I can.' So, what are your thoughts on this story, members? Tell us below!
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