High-Risk HPV Linked to Increased Risk of Heart Disease in Women: Study Finds

In a recent study published in the European Heart Journal, it was found that women with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) may have a higher risk of dying from heart disease. The study included over 163,000 young and middle-aged Korean women who were screened for high-risk HPV during a national health exam and tracked for up to 17 years.

After adjusting for other factors that impact heart disease risk, researchers found that women infected with high-risk HPV were four times more likely to die from heart disease than those without the infection. The researchers speculate that viral infections can lead to inflammation, which is a significant factor in heart disease development. However, further research, including studies involving men, is necessary to confirm these findings.

It’s important to note that vaccines against HPV are highly effective in preventing cervical cancer, and future studies could examine whether these vaccines also have an impact on heart-related outcomes. As a service to readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to an extensive library of archived content. It’s crucial to check the date of the last review or update on all articles before using them as medical advice. Regardless of when the content was published, it should never replace direct medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.