Change in leukocyte telomere length predicts mortality in patients with stable coronary heart disease from the heart and soul study

Peer-Reviewed Scientific Journal:
PLOS ONE

Size of study:
608 adults with stable coronary artery disease

Summary
In this study, 608 individuals with CAD were followed over time and measured for leukocyte telomere length at the beginning and end of 5 years.  Mortality occurred in 39% of patients who experienced telomere shortening, 22% of patients with stable telomere length, and 12% of patients who experienced telomere lengthening. As compared with patients whose telomere length was maintained, those who experienced telomere lengthening were 56% less likely to die at the end of 5 years. This study showed that an increase in leukocyte telomere length over 5 years is associated with decreased mortality.

Link to study

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