Our research project aims to explore how growing older affects heart health and heart-related diseases, such as heart attack, heart failure, irregular heart rhythm, and stroke. Based on previous research, we now know that as people age, the risk of heart problems increases. However, the complexity of aging means that we still lack a complete understanding of the mechanisms involved, which factors contribute, and how they interact with one another due to the multitude of influences at play. By studying a broad range of factors like where people live, their health conditions, lifestyle, family history, and psychological well-being, we hope to paint a clearer picture of the role of aging in developing heart disease.
We will start by looking closely at these factors, and observing how these factors change over time. Our study will use the UK biobank data that was collected over the years.
As life expectancy rises, we anticipate that by 2030, one in five people in the US will be 65 years and older, and heart disease is expected to be an even more significant cause of death. So, we must understand aging’s impact on heart health to develop better ways to prevent heart problems, and potentially, improve quality of life and life expectancy. By identifying what aspects of aging influence heart health, the most, and by learning how those factors interact, we can help to inform future clinical practice, guide healthcare professionals in managing heart disease more effectively, and improve the overall health of our aging society.
