Newsbriefs: Omega-3s; Belly Fat; Imaging Scans; Exercise

Omega-3s Beneficial in CAD
A new study (Circulation, Nov. 19, 2019) suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may boost brain function in people with coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits called plaques on the inner walls of arteries in the heart. If severe, the buildup can block blood flow through the heart, causing a heart attack. Previous research has linked CAD to a greater risk for dementia. The 30-month study included 250 people with CAD—half took omega-3 (fish oil) supplements, while the other half served as a control group. Standard tests carried out at one year and at the end of the study showed that participants who took the supplements had better coordination, reaction speed, memory, and recall compared to the control group. The data suggest there may be a benefit from omega-3 fatty acids before cognitive decline begins—but keep in mind that the study participants took high-dose prescription fish oil, and benefits may not be seen with over-the-counter supplements.

Belly Fat Linked to Dementia

Research has linked abdominal fat to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and a recent study suggests that it also may be associated with dementia risk. The study (Obesity, November 2019) included 872,082 seniors who were followed for six years or until they developed dementia. Those whose waist circumference was equal to or greater than 35.5 inches (men) or 33.5 inches (women) had a greater risk of dementia. The association remained after the data were adjusted to account for the participants’ age, body mass index (BMI: a relation of height to weight), blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and several other lifestyle factors that raise dementia risk. The study did not examine the possible reasons for the association, but other research has pointed to harms from excessive visceral fat, a type of fat that builds up around the abdominal organs. It’s natural to build up some fat around your middle as you age, but if you’re having trouble keeping it to a minimum, discuss with your doctor how you can get it under control.

Imaging Scan Overuse
Imaging scans such as computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be invaluable tools for accurately diagnosing health conditions and monitoring how well medical treatment is working. However, these tests are expensive and also may result in overdiagnosis: the detection of conditions that likely would never cause problems in a person’s lifetime. CT scans also expose you to radiation. Studies have estimated that about 30 percent of imaging scans are unnecessary, and several physician groups, including the American Board of Internal Medicine, have published guidelines designed to reduce their use. A recent study (Journal of the American Medical Association, Sept. 3, 2019) suggests these campaigns aren’t working as well as hoped. Data from seven U.S. health care systems and Ontario, Canada, showed that imaging rates were significantly higher in 2016 than 2000. If your doctor suggests that you need a CT scan or MRI, discuss with him or her why the test is considered necessary, and whether there are any alternative screening or monitoring tests that might be appropriate.

Heart Benefits of Exercise

A recent study (European Heart Journal, Nov. 8, 2019) provides more evidence on the cardiovascular benefits of staying physically active as you age. Researchers looked at 1,119,925 men and women, average age 67, all of whom underwent annual health checks between 2009 and 2012. At each health check, the participants provided information about their physical activity levels, and researchers collected data on the incidence of heart disease and stroke among the participants. The analysis showed that people who engaged in less moderate or vigorous physical activity as they aged had as much as a 27 percent increased risk of heart and blood vessel problems, while those who increased their levels of activity reduced their risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 11 percent.    

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