Being fit in middle-age may not prevent you from cardiovascular disease: Study

A new study claims that even the fittest among the middle-aged adults are not immune to cardiovascular disease -- and they often do not have any symptoms. 

The study, from the University of British Columbia in Canada (UBC), highlights how important it is for middle-aged adults to have their doctor check their cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, especially if they have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a family history of CVD.

CVD are the conditions that involve narrowed or blocked blood vessels that can lead to a heart attack, chest pain (angina) or stroke.

The lead author Barbara Morrison, doctoral student at the UBC said, “We all know that exercise is good for us--it can help prevent a range of health problems and diseases.”

She added, “However, even if you are really active, our findings suggest that you still can’t outclass your risk factors.”

For the study, published in the journal BMJ Open Sport and Exercise Medicine, the team followed 798 adults aged 35 and older who engage in moderate to vigorous physical activity -- running to cycling, rowing and hockey -- at least three days a week.

Of the 798 athletes, 94 (11 percent) were found to have significant CVD. 10 participants were found to have severe coronary artery disease -- a blockage in their artery of 70 percent or greater -- despite not having any symptoms.

While the results may seem alarming, Morrison emphasised that it does not mean middle-aged adults should stop exercising. Moreover, it is also important to practice moderation when it comes to exercise.