CHICAGO: The elderly whose arteries are clear of calcium buildup appear less likely than others to suffer from heart disease or dementia, according to new research.
University of Pittsburgh researchers found that among people in their 80s and 90s, those without calcium buildup in their arteries developed dementia later than those with high levels of calcium. Calcium-clogged arteries — also called atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries — are linked to increased risk for heart disease, heart attack, stroke and, apparently, dementia as well.
These results suggest that aggressive prevention of elevated heart risk factors that lead to calcium buildup “could result not only in increased longevity and decreased heart attacks, but also substantial reduction of incidences of dementia, especially among older women,” said Dr. Lewis Kuller…