George W. Bush’s Heart Condition Could Have Been Fatal

George W. Bush underwent a procedure for a heart condition, which could have been fatal according to sources.

The 67-year-old former President had a stent inserted in August, a procedure that was suggested by doctors after a stress test determined there was a blockage in one of his arteries.

The source told the National Journey:

“He was more than 95 percent occluded. With a blockage like that in a main artery you’re supposed to die. He was pretty lucky they caught it.”

The routine test showed changes in Bush’s electrocardiogram readings and a CT angiogram was immediately ordered, revealing the blockage.

Inserting the stent helps to open a narrow artery, as a way to help prevent future heart attacks. There have been no reports of complications since the procedure was done.

Doctor Kevin Campbell, a cardiologist at the University of North Carolina, says that George W. Bush’s blockage would have probably led to a heart attack if it was not caught at the time.

Dr. Campbell tells Fox News:

“It’s a ticking time bomb. All that has to happen is that plaque has to rupture and completely block up the blood vessel. When you have a blockage like he did…he most certainly would have had a heart attack in his lifetime if he hadn’t had that (procedure) done.”

Campbell also says genetics played a role in George Bush’s condition. Even though the President is taking care of himself, exercising and watching what he eats, there is still predisposition for heart disease due to heredity factors such as high cholesterol and high blood sugar.

A spokesperson for the office of George W. Bush said the President thanks his family, friends, and well wishers and encourages everyone to get regular check-ups.