Private MD News

Fat outside the arteries may be just as dangerous as inside

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

Cholesterol tests that reveal high levels of fat in the arteries are not all that matters when it comes developing atherosclerosis. A new study has found that fat surrounding key arteries may also play an important role in the development of heart disease.

A team of researchers from the University of Cincinnati showed that people who have high levels of fat coating arteries - particularly the left coronary artery - are significantly more likely to develop atherosclerosis. The findings are important, as it was previously assumed that fat inside the arteries in the form of cholesterol was the main culprit behind this condition.

The researchers said that some of the most important arteries in the vascular system are also some of the most sensitive. When these vessels become lined with fat, it causes inflammation, which restricts the flow of blood.

Findings from the present study, which was conducted in mice, suggest that a high-fat diet may be one of the causes of excessive fat outside the arteries. However, the researchers said genetic factors are also involved.