An Innovative Blood Test Can Foretell "Heart Attacks Before They Happen"Β 

Manoj Prasad

Scribbled Underline

Researchers identified 91 molecules that serve as biomarkers to predict heart attacks up to 6 months in advance

Online tool in development allows people to check their imminent heart attack risk

Blood levels of brain natriuretic peptide most consistently signal an impending attack

Questions remain about appropriate screening ages and frequency of testing

Crucial window between risk spike and heart attack allows for preventative measure

Emergency artery clearing procedures may be needed for those at severe imminent risk

Diet/lifestyle changes, medications can prevent attacks in those with less immediate risk

More research required to validate findings and determine clinical application

Test could give doctors/patients critical time to intervene before deadly heart attack