Do genetic determinates of ischaemic heart disease imply that prevention may become more difficult?

Abstract

Favourable changes in environment and lifestyle in the community may lead to a situation in which genetic determinants of ischaemic heart disease assume greater importance. Does this imply that ischaemic heart disease becomes more difficult to prevent? Much of the role of the family history as a risk factor within populations may be explained by new genetic mutations. However, differences between populations are generally attributable to environmental differences. A model of gene-environment interaction implies that individuals or populations with genetic risk markers are both more susceptible and more responsive to environmental changes, including lifestyle and drugs, and thus, may be eminently treatable.