Middle-aged adults with three or more unhealthy traits, such as slightly elevated waist circumference, blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels, experience heart attacks and strokes about two years earlier than their peers, as revealed by research presented at ESC Congress 2023. The study, conducted in Sweden, focused on metabolic syndrome—a condition often unnoticed by individuals in their 40s and 50s with mild health issues. Despite feeling generally well, these people face heightened risks and miss opportunities for early intervention. The study encompassed 34,269 participants who underwent health screenings, finding that those with metabolic syndrome were 30% more likely to die during the 27-year follow-up. Non-fatal cardiovascular events occurred 35% more frequently in the metabolic syndrome group, with blood pressure being a particularly significant risk factor, especially for women in their 40s. The study underscores the significance of early risk factor detection and preventive actions for avoiding heart attacks, strokes, and premature death, recommending regular blood pressure checks, a healthy lifestyle, and physical activity.