Cardiologists warn of light exposure and stress on heart health

Medical specialists are highlighting the significant impact of lifestyle factors on cardiovascular health. Cardiologist Jorge Tartaglione warns that sleeping with light exposure—whether from televisions, smartphones, or street lighting—can disrupt the body's ability to recognize nighttime. This interference can affect the production of sleep-inducing substances and has been linked to heart-related changes.

Additionally, Dr. Mario Boskis addressed the dangers of chronic stress, noting it has become a primary cardiovascular risk factor that can nearly double the likelihood of a heart attack. He noted that approximately 49% of adults in Argentina perceive themselves as stressed, a figure he identified as the highest in the world.

Regarding cholesterol management, Dr. Tartaglione emphasized a shift toward individualized risk assessment rather than relying on isolated blood values. He highlighted the importance of testing for Lipoprotein(a), a genetically determined factor, and noted that treatment targets for LDL cholesterol vary significantly based on a patient's specific risk profile, ranging from below 100 mg/dl to less than 55 mg/dl for high-risk patients.