News of Irene Cara’s death struck the world on November 25, 2022, with no official cause of death released. Two months later, the medical examiner’s office has made headway, revealing three possible contributors to the singer’s demise at 63.
Medical records obtained from the Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s office ruled her cause of death as arteriosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease. Aside from the effect of hypertension and high cholesterol, the medical records also showed she had diabetes.
Irene, known for such ’80s hits as Fame and Flashdance, was found dead in her Florida home two months back, leaving the world mourning a legend. Her publicist, Judith A. Moose, shared the news on social media at the time on behalf of her family. In the heartfelt tribute, the publicist noted that Irene Cara’s legacy would forever live on in her music and films.
Irene Cara’s Cause of Death Explored
While a cause of death was not immediately made available, the latest update on the case confirms no foul play was involved in Irene Cara’s demise. Contrariwise, the songstress appeared to have succumbed to the effects of underlying ailments that plagued her in her last years.
According to Mayoclinic, atherosclerosis, characterized by the hardening and narrowing of the arteries, is the leading cause of cardiac arrest. The condition results from the buildup of cholesterol plaques, which line the arteries over time. This may cause the arteries to become blocked, ultimately affecting blood flow and leading to death from a heart attack. Hence, the condition and its possible repercussions, like strokes and peripheral heart disease, are collectively termed cardiovascular disease.
Early detection and the adoption of medications to treat high levels of cholesterol may help manage to condition. Meanwhile, hypertensive cardiovascular disease refers to heart conditions resulting from high blood pressure.
While it isn’t uncommon to find these two conditions working together to claim a person’s life, as in Irene’s case, many celebrities suffered from at least one of them. Notably, the Los Angeles County Medical Corner listed Leslie Jordan’s death as an arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease following his October 2022 car crash. Singing legend Whitney Houston also lost her life to the condition. Meanwhile, several celebrities have managed their cardiovascular diseases for years by adopting healthy lifestyles and medical prescriptions.