Evolutionary biological discoveries can increase the understanding of cardiovascular diseases. It can contribute to more realistic preventive strategies
Nilsson, P.; Haglund, O.
Lakartidningen 96(50): 5630-5632
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0023-7205 PMID: 10643229 Document Number: 505223
Recent findings in evolutionary biology offer new insights into the historical emergence of widespread medical disorders such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. This has been named evolutionary medicine. When individuals with a genetic program for retention of sodium and calories (insulin resistance) encounter the stress and unwholesome lifestyle of modern society, cardiovascular disease may soon develop, potential consequences being myocardial infarction or stroke. Focusing on historical changes in climate, social circumstances and food availability in the Nordic countries, factors which very much defined living conditions for our ancestors, we discuss cardiovascular disease from the point of view of evolutionary medicine. A better understanding of this perspective will hopefully increase the likelihood of success in preventive efforts such as lifestyle intervention.