Epigenetic markers may personalize cardiometabolic disease prevention

A recent study has found that epigenetic markers, which are chemical changes affecting how genes work, can help predict the risk of cardiometabolic diseases. These conditions include hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. As these health issues become more common, better ways to detect and prevent them are needed. Published in the journal Epigenetics, the study examines poly-epigenetic scores (PEGS). These scores may provide insights into how individual surroundings influence the chances of developing cardiometabolic diseases. The research suggests tailoring prevention strategies based on personal demographics and health behaviors. The study analyzed data from over 20,000 adults aged 50 and older. Researchers looked at DNA samples from more than 4,000 people and focused on how PEGS relate to body mass index (BMI), cholesterol, and inflammation levels. They also considered how age, sex, education, and health habits like smoking or alcohol use affect these relationships. Results showed that PEGS were more closely linked to BMI and cholesterol levels in younger adults. Additionally, female participants exhibited stronger correlations in these areas. For individuals with only a high school education, there was a significant link between PEGS and C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation related to heart disease. Smokers also displayed a stronger connection between PEGS and HDL cholesterol levels. Lisha Lin, the study's lead author, emphasized the importance of lifestyle choices and environmental factors in health outcomes. She believes that integrating epigenetic markers into risk assessments could lead to more personalized healthcare approaches for managing cardiometabolic diseases. Overall, the study highlights how PEGS can be valuable in precision medicine. It calls for a greater focus on individual characteristics and behaviors in assessing the risk of these conditions. Researchers hope these findings will help create targeted interventions for those at higher risk of cardiometabolic diseases.