Flu Shots May Ward Off Cardiac Problems
- 11 years ago
Among people in the high-risk group for heart disease, getting a flu shot can significantly lower the chances that a “cardiac event” will occur.
Among people in the high-risk group for heart disease, getting a flu shot can significantly lower the chances that a “cardiac event” will occur.
The finding comes from an analysis of about a dozen flu vaccine trials, five of which involved placebo-taking control groups.
In studying the data of one test in particular, the researchers found that among the recipients of the actual vaccine only 2.9 percent later experienced significant heart-related issues.
Among those in the trial’s placebo group, 4.7 percent were eventually impacted by cardiovascular trouble.
Those figures mathematically translate into an overall 36 percent decrease in the chance that heart problems will take hold.
Researchers also pointed out that for every additional 58 vaccinations, 1 life could be saved.
Upon reviewing other studies on the matter, the scientists concluded that the influenza vaccine was most beneficial for people with acute coronary syndrome.
One suggested reason behind the vaccine’s power over heart problems is that it prevents some of the disastrous occurrences that can result from arterial plaque build-up.
Critics of the study say that the researchers have found associations, but aren’t yet convinced a cause and effect relationship has been established.
Among people in the high-risk group for heart disease, getting a flu shot can significantly lower the chances that a “cardiac event” will occur.
The finding comes from an analysis of about a dozen flu vaccine trials, five of which involved placebo-taking control groups.
In studying the data of one test in particular, the researchers found that among the recipients of the actual vaccine only 2.9 percent later experienced significant heart-related issues.
Among those in the trial’s placebo group, 4.7 percent were eventually impacted by cardiovascular trouble.
Those figures mathematically translate into an overall 36 percent decrease in the chance that heart problems will take hold.
Researchers also pointed out that for every additional 58 vaccinations, 1 life could be saved.
Upon reviewing other studies on the matter, the scientists concluded that the influenza vaccine was most beneficial for people with acute coronary syndrome.
One suggested reason behind the vaccine’s power over heart problems is that it prevents some of the disastrous occurrences that can result from arterial plaque build-up.
Critics of the study say that the researchers have found associations, but aren’t yet convinced a cause and effect relationship has been established.