Study of NFL Alumni Cohort Finds Majority Suffer From Heart Disease Without Knowing It
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The HUDDLE study funded by Edwards Lifesciences reveals a stark contrast in the self-perceived versus actual cardiovascular health status among NFL Alumni. The high prevalence of hypertension, at 83.8%, is alarming and significantly higher than the national average, which hovers around 45% according to the CDC. This discrepancy suggests a need for increased awareness and proactive health management within this demographic.
From a cardiology standpoint, this study underscores the importance of regular health screenings, even in populations that may be considered physically active or at a lower perceived risk. The long-term implications for healthcare providers and insurers could include re-evaluating risk assessment models and potentially adjusting health insurance premiums or coverage for professional athletes post-retirement.
Edwards Lifesciences' investment in the HUDDLE study is not only a contribution to public health knowledge but also a strategic move that could influence the company's market position. By identifying a high-risk population, Edwards may anticipate increased demand for cardiac monitoring devices and services. This could potentially lead to targeted marketing strategies and product development tailored to athletes and physically active individuals.
Furthermore, the study's findings may prompt policy discussions around mandatory health screenings for athletes, both active and retired, which could expand the market for cardiac care services. The economic impact on the healthcare system could be substantial, as early intervention in high-risk groups typically results in cost savings by preventing more severe health events.
The data presented by Edwards Lifesciences at the ACC conference could have a ripple effect on the stock market, particularly in the medical device sector. Investors are likely to watch how the company leverages these findings to capture a niche market of former professional athletes who may require specialized cardiovascular care.
While the immediate market reaction may be muted, the long-term strategic positioning of Edwards as a leader in heart disease awareness and management among athletes could enhance its brand reputation and drive future growth. Competitors will likely take note, potentially leading to increased innovation and competition in the cardiovascular health space for this specific demographic.
Results of the HUDDLE study indicated that the prevalence of hypertension in the 498 screened participants was
“These alarming results are a call to action,” said Michael Amponsah, MD, ChB, FACC, Interventional Cardiologist, Banner Boswell Medical Center,
Initiated by Edwards in 2021, the HUDDLE study’s objective was to examine the unrecognized prevalence of heart disease and associated risk factors, particularly among groups historically known to experience disparities in access to care. For instance, with more than a million patients treated globally with TAVR, the treatment rate of African Americans in the US has remained constant over the past decade at around
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“Edwards is committed to helping identify and dismantle barriers to access for communities that are underserved due to race, gender and socioeconomic status,” said Larry Wood, Edwards’ corporate vice president and group president, transcatheter aortic valve replacement and surgical structural heart. “We realized that by working with the NFL Alumni Association and through this unique network of former players, we might be able to gain a greater understanding of how heart disease is impacting underserved populations, and how education, awareness and simple screening tools can save lives in these communities and in the entire nation as a whole.”
About Edwards Lifesciences
Edwards Lifesciences is the global leader of patient-focused innovations for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring. We are driven by a passion for patients, dedicated to improving and enhancing lives through partnerships with clinicians and stakeholders across the global healthcare landscape. For more information, visit Edwards.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.
This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We intend the forward-looking statements contained in this Proxy Statement to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of such Acts. These forward-looking statements can sometimes be identified by the use of forward-looking words, such as “may,” “might,” “believe,” “will,” “expect,” “project,” “estimate,” “should,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “goal,” “continue,” “seek,” “intend,” “optimistic,” “aspire,” “confident” and other forms of these words and include, but are not limited to, statements made by Mr. Wood and statements regarding expected product benefits, patient outcomes, post-treatment reduction of invasive procedures, objectives and expectations and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by management of the company and are believed to be reasonable, though they are inherently uncertain and difficult to predict. Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of the statement. Investors are cautioned not to unduly rely on such forward-looking statements.
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Source: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
