Study Of Mummies Reveals Heart Problems Of Ancient World

Main Category: Cardiovascular / Cardiology
Article Date: 12 Mar 2013 - 1:00 PDT


A study of 137 mummies has revealed that atherosclerosis, or the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, may have been more common among ancient peoples than previously thought.

Overall, researchers found that over a third (34%) of the mummies showed signs of probable or definite atherosclerosis. As with modern populations, older people seemed more likely to show signs of the disease.

Atherosclerosis is usually considered to be linked to risk factors such as smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise. However, the researchers suggest that these findings may support the idea of a predisposition to the disease.

Maureen Talbot, Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), said: "This small study takes us back in time to give an insight into the heart health of people in the ancient world.

"However, we simply don't know enough about the diet and lifestyle of the people studied to say whether behaviour or genetics lies at the root of the heart problems observed.

"We can't change the past, but lifestyle choices can help to affect our future. By eating well, quitting smoking and keeping active, you can help to protect your heart."

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