For men and women over 50, cardiovascular disease is quickly becoming a sobering reality.
Statistics continue to show this continues to be the biggest at risk group, often due to a combination of genetics and lifestyle habits.
Now there’s a surprising way to find out if you’re at risk.
According to recent findings, people who developed deep forehead wrinkles early in life, starting at age 20, were ten times more likely to die from a cardiovascular event, such as heart disease or a heart attack.
People with few, shallow forehead wrinkles were less likely to die from this cause, however.
As for the reason why, researchers say both wrinkles and atherosclerosis–a condition that can lead to heart disease–cause changes in collagen levels, proteins which maintain the integrity of the skin.
As collagen decreases, so does the tautness of the skin, leading to fine lines and wrinkles.
In addition, blood vessels in the forehead are also finer than other blood vessels in the face, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup.
This can trigger atherosclerosis, and if left untreated, heart disease later in life.
It’s a particularly strange finding, but don’t fret if this describes you–instead, use it as initiative to schedule a doctor’s appointment.
Luckily, atherosclerosis is easier to treat if caught early.
