What is it: Aortic valve stenosis (abnormal narrowing) is when severe calcification of the
valve tissue causes valve leaflet immobility which obstructs the outflow of blood through
the valve. Aortic valve stenosis develops over eight years.
How common is it: Aortic valve stenosis is the most common adult valve disease in the
developed world, affecting 2% of those over the age of 65 and 4% of those over 85 years
old.
Link: it is linked to hyperparathyroidism and/or impaired renal function.
Treatment: only surgery, there is no treatment with drugs.
Calcium supplements: the use of calcium and vitamin D supplements is increasing for
post-menopausal women susceptible to osteoporosis. However, research has suggested
that this can lead to higher mortality rates and greater need for aortic valve replacement in
even patients with mild-moderate stenosis i.e. can do more harm than good.
Mortality rates increased with calcium supplements:
Aortic valve replacement was found to be required in 50% of all patients taking calcium
supplements vs only 11% of those taking no supplements at all.
NOTE: calcium supplementation requires careful evaluation by your doctor: of the
particular nature of your cardiovascular disease, and your personal risk factors for aortic
valve stenosis.
These risk factors are raised cholesterol, high level of blood calcium, parathyroid hormone
issue, and smoking.
Source: Cleveland Clinic Study of 2,600 patients.
