The study, conducted by a group of university researchers and published in JAMA Cardiology, found "an additional 6.2 percent decline in hospital admissions for myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke among populations living in counties with versus without trans-fatty acid restrictions." The study also found that the decline in the heart attack and stroke rate "reached statistical significance 3 or more years after restrictions were implemented."
The study's lead author, Dr. Eric J. Brandt, told the New York Times that the significant reduction in heart attack and strokes suggests that the trans fat ban is a "well-planned and well-executed public policy."
A national ban on trans fats is set to begin in 2018.
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