Manchester study finds silent heart attacks in high‑risk older adults

Researchers from the University of Manchester and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust examined heart scans of 550 volunteers aged over 50 with cardiometabolic conditions. The EARLY‑HF study found that 9 % of participants had experienced a silent heart attack they were unaware of. High blood pressure was present in 88 % of the group, and two‑thirds had uncontrolled or unmanaged hypertension.

The findings highlight the long‑term impact of elevated blood pressure on heart health and stress the importance of early detection and lifelong blood pressure control. Experts note that lifestyle measures—regular exercise, reduced salt intake, the DASH diet, limited alcohol, adequate sleep, and modest garlic consumption—can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The study was presented at the British Cardiovascular Society conference in Manchester and funded by the British Heart Foundation and Innovate UK.