Heart attack breakthrough: Vaccine 'will be here within five years'

Scientists have made a major breakthrough in the prevention of heart attacks after developing a vaccine that dramatically reduces fat in the arteries. The drug, which can be administered by injection or nasal spray, could be available within five years. Current treatment involves medication that reduces cholesterol and blood pressure. But the study by Lund University in Sweden is the first which has targeted the underlying cause of heart disease. Prof Peter Weissberg, the British Heart Foundation medical director, said the vaccine was 'very promising'. Fatty deposits can place great strain on the heart by narrowing the arteries and forcing it to pump far harder. This treatment works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies which tackle this build-up.