Spit test could predict heart attacks and strokes

Thousands of heart attacks and strokes could be prevented every year after scientists made a genes breakthrough. A simple spit test could allow medics to detect those at a much greater risk of high blood pressure. Researchers at Queen Mary University London and Imperial College London have identified 535 genes linked to the condition.

The team says a third of the risk is inherited. Identifying those with a high genetic risk at an early age would allow doctors to stress to them the importance of a healthy lifestyle sooner. Scientists analyzed data on one million people. They found those with the highest genetic score were 3.34 times more likely to develop high blood pressure as the lowest. READ MORE