Research: Covid ages blood vessels

A Covid infection can lead to aging of the blood vessels, according to research published in the European Heart Journal, with the participation of researchers from TEPAK.

The study, which involved Andri Panagiotou and Dr. Galatia Fotiou, found that Covid can accelerate the aging process of blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The research included 2,390 people from 16 countries and showed that even mild Covid infections are associated with stiffer arteries. The effect was more pronounced in women and people with long-term Covid symptoms.

Vaccinated individuals had less stiff arteries compared to unvaccinated individuals. Vascular aging can be treated with lifestyle changes and medication.

Researchers from Harvard Medical School comment on the study in an accompanying article.