34,000 Heart Attacks and Strokes Can Be Prevented By GLP-1 Drug In U.S.

A recent study has found that GLP-1 drugs, commonly used for weight loss, could play a crucial role in preventing heart attacks and strokes. The research, utilising artificial intelligence and real-world data, indicates that these drugs could reduce the risk of cardiac events by 15% to 20% in a broader population than previously studied, potentially preventing around 34,000 heart attacks and strokes in the US each year.

GLP-1 Drugs as Primary Prevention

Novo Nordisk’s clinical trials focused primarily on patients with obesity who had previously suffered a heart attack or stroke. 

The new research by Dandelion Health expanded this scope by including patients with mild or moderate heart disease without a history of major cardiovascular events. 

By analysing real-world medical records and utilising AI to predict potential benefits, researchers found that GLP-1 drugs could significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in this broader population.

This analysis follows Novo Nordisk’s clinical trials, which showed that individuals using Wegovy, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, had a 20% lower risk of cardiac events than those on a placebo.

 However, the new findings by Dandelion Health suggest that GLP-1 drugs could benefit not only those with severe heart conditions but also people with mild to moderate cardiovascular disease who have not experienced a cardiac event.

A Paradigm Shift in Cardiovascular Care

The study suggests that GLP-1 drugs could transform cardiovascular care by serving as a primary prevention method for a larger group of patients. 

Experts believe this shift could lead to a substantial reduction in heart disease-related mortality. 

However, while the potential benefits are promising, cost considerations remain, as widespread use could significantly increase healthcare spending.

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