September 22, 2009

expert reaction to evidence review of the association between influenza and heart attacks, as published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases

The review concluded that influenza can be a risk factor for heart attacks and cardiovascular death, but that this risk is reduced by influenza vaccination.

Dr Tim Chico, Clinician Scientist and honorary Consultant Cardiologist, University of Sheffield, said:

“Chest infections like flu can trigger a heart attack, though this is fortunately rare. However, flu isn’t the underlying cause of the heart attack, which is caused over years by a poor diet, smoking, high cholesterol, not exercising, and being overweight.

“With the flu season approaching, if people want to reduce their risk of a heart attack they should eat more healthily, exercise regularly, stop smoking, and control their weight.”