Check out two recent New York Times articles about changes in thinking on how to protect the heart, based on research indicating that most heart attacks are caused, not by large plaques that lead to blockage in arteries, but by smaller plaques that break free and, because of inflammatory and coagulation factors, result in clots and/or blockage. One, "More Isn't Always Better in Coronary Care," points out drawbacks to interventional surgeries, such as angioplasty, stents, and bypass surgery, thought to be over-prescribed because they don't always treat the true problems (small plaques and inflammation) that lead to cardiac death. The second article, "New Thinking on How to Protect the Heart," explains the role of inflammatory cells and examines lifestyle factors that promote heart health.
