A follow-up study of the VEGF in Ischemia for Vascular Angiogenesis (VIVA) trial found that gene therapy did not increase the risk of cancer or adverse events in patients with severe angina. The results showed a lower rate of adverse events in patients receiving the high-dose VEGF, and encouraging reductions in chest pain after one year.
Researchers found that patients with periodontal disease had significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein in their blood than those without gum disease, indicating an increased risk of future heart attacks. The study suggests that treating severe gum disease may help reduce CRP levels and the risk of another heart attack.
Researchers have successfully created viable new heart muscle cells using marrow stromal cells from an animal's own bone marrow. The goal is to replace dead heart muscle cells with new ones, potentially offering a treatment for life-threatening heart failure.
A study by the American Heart Association found that individuals with heart attacks are more likely to have periodontal disease, a type of gum tissue inflammation. The researchers believe that high blood levels of C-reactive protein may be linked between the two conditions.
A new study suggests that losartan, a type of hypertension medication, may improve sexual function in men with high blood pressure. After 12 weeks of treatment, 88% of hypertensive males with sexual dysfunction reported improvement in at least one area of sexuality. The drug also showed promise in improving overall quality of life.
A Mediterranean-style diet rich in olive oil, fruit, and fish was associated with a lower risk of death after a heart attack. The study found that participants who consumed more fresh fruits and vegetables had a reduced risk of dying within 42 months after their heart attack.
A study by Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center found that reducing prednisone medication can eliminate unpleasant side effects without affecting survival rates. 80% of adult transplant patients were successfully weaned off prednisone within two years, with no increased risk of rejection or infection.
A recent study suggests that trans fatty acids, commonly found in baked goods and fried foods, may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. The researchers found that diets high in trans fats led to higher triglyceride levels and lower HDL cholesterol.