Kirov Region has entered the top 15 regions with "cholesterol protection."

      Specialists from Genotek analyzed more than 166,000 genetic samples to assess the prevalence of the rs7412 mutation in the APOE gene. This gene variant is considered a natural "protector" of blood vessels, as it helps reduce levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), known as "bad" cholesterol, by almost one-fifth (18-19%). This decreases the risk of plaque formation and heart attacks. However, as the study showed, nature has distributed this bonus very unevenly.

      Kirov in the top fifteen of "genetically protected" areas

      The analysis of the geographical distribution of the protective allele (a gene variant that provides resistance to external factors or reduces the risk of certain diseases) showed that in Central Russia and the Northwest, the frequency of the beneficial gene is significantly higher than the average Russian indicators. The highest results are demonstrated by Orenburg, Surgut, and Arkhangelsk, where the proportion of carriers exceeds 20%.

      A special place in the ranking was taken by the Kirov region. In the regional center — the city of Kirov — the frequency of the rs7412 variant was 18.24%. This is not only significantly higher than the national average among Russians (15.95%), but also allows Kirov to rank 11th in the list of leading cities in genetic resistance to "bad" cholesterol, entering the top fifteen. Nearby the regional capital, cities such as Ryazan, Magnitogorsk, and Astrakhan also made the list.

      Ethnic factor and contrast with the south

      Upon closer examination, it became clear that such high figures in regions like Kirov are explained by the ethnic composition. According to the distribution table by ethnicity, the most "protected" ethnic group in Russia is the Russians (15.95%). They are followed by Ukrainians, Yakuts, and Belarusians.

      However, when looking at the map of distribution by cities, the picture becomes more contrasting. While the northern and central regions have consistently high figures, the situation is reversed in the southern regions. At the other end of the ranking are Vladikavkaz (7.24%) and Nalchik (6.86%). This correlates with data on ethnic groups: among Ossetians, the share of the "protective" allele is only 4.15%, while among Kabardians, Circassians, and Adyghe, it is less than 2%.

      Experts' opinion: genetics offers no leniency

      Despite the fact that residents of the Kirov region may feel genetically protected, medical experts urge not to rely solely on heredity. "Having this gene variant is undoubtedly an advantage, but it is just one of many factors," comments Fedor Kireev, medical director of the company. "Even if nature has blessed you with a low risk of accumulating 'bad' cholesterol, poor nutrition, smoking, and physical inactivity can nullify this bonus. Genetics sets predisposition, but lifestyle remains the main tool for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases."