Overview
- Researchers from Harvard and Oxford reported that higher NT‑proBNP levels in people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy correlated with poorer blood flow, more scarring, and features linked to atrial fibrillation or heart failure.
- The multicenter study assessed 700 patients, suggesting a simple blood draw could help flag those at greater risk for complications who may benefit from closer monitoring or earlier intervention.
- Study leader Prof Carolyn Ho said continued biomarker research could enable future use of a blood test to distinguish high‑ from low‑risk patients and guide targeted therapy.
- The British Heart Foundation funded the work, with chief scientific and medical officer Prof Bryan Williams saying the approach could benefit patients globally if proven in further studies.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common inherited heart muscle disease, affecting millions worldwide, and patients describe potential risk stratification as a way to reduce uncertainty for families.