By Sadie Whitelocks
Last updated at 6:23 PM on 25th October 2011
Expert says true figure of those affected is 'staggering'
Secret killer in artery walls can lead to stroke and premature death, says new study
A high proportion of 'apparently healthy' young adults are at risk of clogged arteries, a study shows.
Researchers at the University of Quebec have discovered that a build-up of fatty deposits in the walls of the arteries known as atherosclerosis, is fast becoming a 'ticking timebomb'.
The disorder, which often remains undetected, can eventually lead to serious health complications including heart disease, stroke, or even premature death.
Researchers worked with 168 volunteers aged 18-35 for the study.
Those who took part had no known risk factors such as family history of premature heart disease, diabetes, obesity, smoking, high blood cholesterol, or high blood pressure.
However results revealed that despite their healthy appearance they were suffering from the potentially serious condition.
Dr Eric Larose, said: 'The proportion of young, apparently healthy adults who are presumably 'the picture of health' who already have atherosclerosis is staggering.
Read more HERE
