Abstract:

Heart disease is the most hazardous chronic disease that leads to death worldwide. Hypertension is one of the most risk factors that leads to CVD. This study has been conducted to examine the relationship between a genetic polymorphism in the angiotensin gene and coronary heart disease, and the correlation of this polymorphism with environmental and nutritional risk factors. A case-control study has been conducted involving 100 CAD patients and 100 healthy individuals as a control group. DNA was isolated from patient's peripheral blood, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) I/D gene polymorphism was assayed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results showed that the ACE I/D polymorphism distribution was as follows: Genotype frequencies of DD, II, and DI among cases were 0.42, 0.21, 0.37; respectively. There was a significant association between the studied environmental and nutritional factors and the incidence of  CAD I/D especially BMI (≥ 25), cigarette smoking, and family history. The general health level of society can be improved by modifying lifestyle like eating DASH diet (dietary approach to stop hypertension), increasing physical activity and avoiding smoking and processed food. The study emphasizes the possibility of early detection of heart disease risk by using the ACE gene polymorphism test.