Age-related cardiovascular diseases (ARCVD), including heart attacks and strokes, are a leading global health threat, especially as populations age. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) projects that by 2060, 1 in 4 people worldwide will be 65 or older - a group highly vulnerable to ARCVD. Globally, ARCVD causes over 17 million deaths yearly, per WHO estimates. Beyond mortality, it robs seniors of quality of life: survivors often face chronic pain, mobility loss and increased reliance on care. It also strains healthcare systems, with ARCVD-related treatments consuming 10-15% of national health budgets in aging societies.

ARCVD develops primarily due to “inflammaging” - chronic, low-grade inflammation that worsens with age, paired with lifestyle factors like sedentary behavior, high-sugar diets and smoking. Key symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath, fatigue and irregular heartbeats; severe cases lead to sudden heart attacks or strokes, which may cause permanent disability.

Biomarkers like high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) signal ARCVD risk: elevated hsCRP doubles heart disease risk, while high IL-6 correlates with stroke. These markers are detected via blood tests (e.g., annual screenings for seniors). Prevention combines core lifestyle habits - balanced diets, 150+ minutes of weekly exercise, and 7-9 hours of sleep - with emerging aids like cocoa extract. A 2-year study in Age and Ageing (led by Mass General Brigham) found 500mg daily cocoa extract (rich in flavanols) reduced hsCRP by 8% yearly, boosted immune protein interferon-γ by 7%, and worked best for those with baseline inflammation.

While cocoa extract is not a “cure”, it offers a promising add-on to ARCVD prevention. It targets a key driver (inflammaging) and complements lifestyle efforts. More diverse research is needed, but for seniors, it underscores that simple, daily interventions - paired with healthy habits that can strengthen heart health as we age.