Gaining a few extra pounds in your 40s and 50s can significantly increase your risk of premature death compared to those who maintain a healthy weight in midlife, according to a new study. Researchers found that individuals with slightly higher blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar levels who also carry excess weight are up to 30% more likely to die younger. These “slightly unhealthy traits” can put individuals at a greater risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke over the next three decades, even if they show no symptoms and feel generally well.
The study, conducted in Sweden, analyzed data from around 34,000 individuals in their 40s and 50s who participated in a cardiovascular screening program between 1990 and 1999. Measurements of height, weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, and waist and hip circumference were taken, and participants also completed a questionnaire about their lifestyle habits, medical history, and socioeconomic factors. Those who met the criteria for metabolic syndrome, which includes a combination of obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes, were compared against a healthy control group.
After adjusting for factors such as physical inactivity, BMI, and living situation, the researchers discovered that individuals with metabolic syndrome were significantly more likely to experience a cardiac event earlier in life. A higher percentage of those with metabolic syndrome died (26%) compared to the control group (19%), making them 30% more likely to die prematurely. They were also 35% more likely to have non-fatal heart attacks and strokes. The average time to the first nonfatal heart attack or stroke was 16.8 years for those with metabolic syndrome and 19.1 years for the control group.
Dr. Lena Lönnberg of Västmanland County Hospital in Sweden emphasized the importance of health monitoring, even for those who feel generally healthy. She recommended checking blood pressure annually, avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy waist circumference, and staying physically active on a daily basis.
Metabolic syndrome affects an estimated one in four adults in the UK, with increasing obesity levels being a major contributing factor. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity can individually damage blood vessels, but having these three conditions together can be particularly dangerous. Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation, underscored the significance of early health monitoring and lifestyle changes in mitigating the risk of heart attacks and strokes. He advised adopting a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and abstaining from smoking. If lifestyle changes are not sufficient, medical professionals can provide further guidance on medication options to reduce risk.
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