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UCLA Health Study Identifies Inflammatory Molecules as Key Indicator
A groundbreaking study conducted by UCLA Health suggests that a straightforward blood test could revolutionize the prediction of stroke and cognitive decline risks in individuals. Published in the prestigious journal Stroke, the research unveils a novel method of assessing susceptibility to cerebral small vessel disease, a leading cause of stroke and cognitive impairment, particularly among the elderly population.
Led by Dr. Jason Hinman from the UCLA Comprehensive Stroke Center and the Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Care, the study focuses on measuring concentrations of inflammatory molecules in the blood to calculate a risk score for cerebral small vessel disease. Traditionally, assessing the risk for cerebral vascular diseases has relied on a combination of imaging techniques, family history, and demographic factors. However, these methods often fall short in predicting risk before a cerebrovascular event occurs.
Dr. Hinman explains, “The same way one uses cholesterol tests to evaluate one’s future risk for heart attack, we don’t have such a thing to estimate future risk for stroke.” By leveraging a network of inflammatory molecules, specifically the interleukin-18 (IL-18) network, researchers aim to provide a more accessible and proactive approach to stroke risk assessment.
The study builds upon previous research that identified a correlation between individual molecules within the IL-18 network and cerebral small vessel disease. However, fluctuations in these molecules due to various health conditions have hindered their reliability as predictors. To address this limitation, Dr. Hinman’s team analyzed data from the Framingham Heart Study, a long-term investigation tracking the medical history of thousands of individuals since 1948. By examining blood samples and medical records, researchers developed a mathematical model to generate risk scores based on IL-18 network concentrations.
Results from the study reveal promising outcomes, with individuals in the top 25% of risk scores exhibiting an 84% likelihood of experiencing a stroke in their lifetime. Overall, elevated risk scores were associated with a 51% increased risk of stroke, surpassing existing risk assessment tools in diagnostic accuracy.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in modifying or reducing an individual’s risk score, necessitating further research. Dr. Hinman emphasizes the importance of preventive measures, particularly in primary care settings, to mitigate stroke risk before the occurrence of an adverse event.
The implications of this study are profound, offering a potential paradigm shift in stroke prevention strategies. With further validation and development, the implementation of a simple blood test could empower healthcare providers to proactively identify and address stroke risk, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden of cerebrovascular diseases.
