Oral Contraceptives May Increase Risk of Heart Attack

An international study shows a small increased risk of heart attack to oral contraceptive users overall with higher risks for those with known cardiovascular risk factors, but especially smokers over age 35.

• A study of women from Europe and developing countries found an increased risk of acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) among combined oral contraceptives users, particularly those who were not previously screened for high blood pressure. Older women (over age 35) who smoke and use oral contraceptives incurred a substantially higher risk of heart attack.¹

  ¹Acute myocardial infarction and combined oral contraceptives: results of an international multicentre case-control study, The lancet Vol. 349 April 26, 1997; pp. 1202-1208