Seeing clogged arteries may inspire healthier habits

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If people see evidence of plaque buildup inside their arteries, it may motivate them to take better care of their hearts, new research suggests.

The study, which pooled findings from six randomized trials, included more than 7,000 people in total. Most received scans to check for plaque in the arteries of their hearts or necks. Each of the studies randomly assigned people to two groups. Half were shown their scan results; the others were either not shown their results or were not scanned. The study follow-ups lasted one to four years.

Researchers found greater improvements among people who saw images of their plaque buildup. Compared with people who didn't see scans, those who did had lower cholesterol and blood pressure values at the end of the follow-up period, as well as lower overall risk of heart disease. The study was published online May 24, 2023, by JACC: Cardiovascular Imaging.