Chronic stress can alter the structure of the heart

Chronic inflammation is a prolonged, low‑level activation of the immune system. Previously, it was mainly associated with cancer and diabetes, but now its role in heart disease is becoming increasingly clear. In this study, the team led by Professor Declan O’Regan used three data sources from the UK Biobank: a blood test for the glycoprotein acetyl (GlycA) marker, heart scans, and genetic information. This comprehensive approach made it possible to see not only the level of inflammation but also what specific structural changes it causes.

The results were alarming. People with the highest levels of inflammation (the top 20%) had a 43% higher risk of heart attack and stroke compared to those with the lowest levels of inflammation (the bottom 20%). Moreover, this increased risk persisted even in people who had not yet been diagnosed with heart disease. At the same time, their imaging revealed characteristic changes: thickening of the heart walls, reduced chamber volume, and impaired blood filling of the heart. These changes can develop over years without showing any symptoms and only later lead to heart failure.

What turned out to be particularly important was how closely the level of inflammation is linked not only to conventional risk factors (smoking and excess weight) but also to social and psychological circumstances. Higher levels of inflammation were more common in people facing socio‑economic difficulties and psychological stress. Genetics also played a role: some people turned out to be biologically more vulnerable to inflammatory damage, while others were more resilient. Nevertheless, genetic predisposition or difficult living conditions do not mean that a disease is inevitable. A lot can be done for prevention.

Scientists have identified key proteins that likely play a major role in this process — these are representatives of the interleukin‑1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) families. Interestingly, drugs targeting these proteins are already undergoing clinical trials. This gives hope that in the future, anti‑inflammatory therapy may be able to prevent cardiovascular diseases even before symptoms appear.

According to Professor Brian Williams from the British Heart Foundation, the value of the study lies in the fact that it shows how different factors—such as genes, lifestyle, social status, and mental health—converge on a single biological pathway: chronic inflammation. This means that the risk can be addressed through several approaches: from supporting people in difficult circumstances to targeting specific molecules with medications.

In the long term, combining the analysis of inflammatory markers in the blood with genetic risk assessments could help identify in advance those who would particularly benefit from early preventive measures. It is important to remember that taking care of mental health, quitting smoking, controlling your weight, and seeking support during difficult life situations are real ways to reduce dangerous hidden inflammation and protect your heart.