WASHINGTON, DC (Ivanhoe Newswire) – Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is an enlargement of the heart that causes heart failure. A new MedStar study led by doctors who strongly recommend genetic testing proves that genetics plays a big role.

DCM causes the heart to enlarge and become unable to pump enough blood, and recent research has shown that dozens of inherited genes are responsible.

“The vast majority of patients with idiopathic cardiomyopathy have never received genetic counseling,” says Mark Hoffmeyer, MD, a heart failure specialist at MedStar Washington Hospital Center.

The MedStar Heart and Vascular Institute’s recent 5-year Dilated Cardiomyopathy Study revealed that a front-line family-linked genetic mutation is behind DCM.

“It is very important that people get tested beforehand to avoid the disease progressing to severe disease or sudden death,” Dr. Hofmeyer explains.

He also cautions against ignoring the obvious symptoms of DCM, such as shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

“Often they feel like, ‘This is just getting older,’ or ‘I’m getting more tired,’ or ‘I don’t have as much energy as I used to,'” Dr. Hoffmeyer added.

Screening allows for early diagnosis and treatment with drugs.

“It’s really important to get screened, and not just get screened, but get screened regularly,” recommends Dr. Hoffmeyer.

This study is the first to demonstrate the genetics of a rare mutation associated with DCM, and Dr. Hoffmeyer believes it will provide healthcare providers with insights to better manage patient care. I’m looking forward to it.

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