A recent trial found that low-dose methotrexate did not lower cardiovascular event rates in patients at high risk for heart disease and stroke. The study, which included over 4,700 participants, showed no significant reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events compared to placebo.
Researchers found that testing coronary calcium levels is a more accurate predictor of blocked coronary arteries and need for revascularization than standard risk-assessment equations. Coronary calcium scores can identify patients at high risk and help prevent overtreatment.
The Dapagliflozin Effect on CardiovascuLAR Events - Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 58 trial found that dapagliflozin markedly reduced the risk of hospitalization for heart failure and progression of renal disease, with benefits seen across the study population.
The REDUCE-IT trial found that icosapent ethyl reduced the risk of death due to cardiovascular causes, heart attack, and stroke by 25%, including a 20% reduction in death and 31% reduction in heart attack. This may set a new standard for patients with elevated triglycerides and increased cardiovascular risk despite statin therapy.
A new study of over 174,000 patients found that being treated with too much medication for hypothyroidism can lead to an increased risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke. The research suggests that the optimal healthy range of free thyroxine (fT4) levels may need to be reconsidered.
A three-year study found that children with autism improved in various skills, including social interaction and vocal skills, when taught alongside typically developing peers. The results suggest that mainstream pre-schools can provide suitable environments for supporting children with autism.
The VITAL study found that omega-3 fatty acids reduced the risk of heart attacks, particularly among African American participants. Vitamin D supplements may also lower cancer deaths over time, with a significant 25% reduction in mortality rates observed after two years of treatment.