A new analysis of imaging data from more than 16,000 apparently healthy adults found that arterial plaque—a hallmark of atherosclerosis—was already present in roughly 1 in 13 people between the ages of 18 and 29. Overall, over half of the study participants showed some sign of the condition, suggesting that vascular damage often begins much earlier than commonly assumed.
The findings come from a research team that used direct imaging of the arteries rather than relying on risk-factor calculations. They argue that such imaging could expose hidden cardiovascular disease years or even decades before symptoms emerge, potentially allowing earlier interventions.
Because this report is based on a single source, no independent corroboration is available. The study's authors emphasize that the presence of plaque does not necessarily mean imminent heart problems, but they see it as a warning sign worth acting on. The results highlight a possible gap in current screening practices, which typically focus on older adults.{