A cardiologist warned of possible increase in cardiovascular disease over the next few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a study published by the American Heart Association, the pandemic has also delayed care for patients who are likely to suffer from heart attacks and strokes.

Dr. Salid Virani, the chair of the writing committee for the American Heart Association’s 2021 Statistical Update and an associate professor in cardiology and cardiovascular research sections at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, said this is due to the unhealthy lifestyle behaviors that have been prevalent throughout the pandemic.

He cited unhealthy eating habits, increased consumption of alcohol, lack of physical ability and the mental toll of quarantaine isolation and even fear of contracting the virus all can adversely impact a person’s risk for cardiovascular health.

The effects, he added, would be felt in the years to come.

Studies have found that up to 28% of adult patients hospitalized with COVID-19 also developed myocardial injuries, although most of these adults had pre-existing cardiovascular disease.

A separate study from the University of Edinburgh found abnormal changes to the way the heart was pumping in 55% of patients with the virus who were examined with an echocardiogram, with one in seven showing severe dysfunction. (ES)