Women with cardiovascular disease require reproductive planning to ensure optimal health and minimize risks during pregnancy. The American College of Cardiology emphasizes the importance of sharing decision-making with healthcare providers to create an action plan for contraception and medical decision-making.
A prospective cohort study found that patients who work more than 55 hours per week are at a twofold increased risk of having a second heart attack. Long working hours were associated with higher job strain and poorer lifestyle risk factors, particularly among men and younger workers.
A study found that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality. Researchers analyzed data from the Framingham Offspring Study and classified food items into five categories, including ultra-processed foods, which were linked to a 7% increase in hard ...
Despite minimal improvement, racial disparities persist in rural areas for diabetes and high blood pressure-related mortality. However, modest gains were observed for heart disease and stroke mortality in both rural and urban areas.
Women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) have a greater risk of premature mortality, including cardiovascular disease (CVD)-related deaths. A new study found that GHTN and preeclampsia were associated with a 42% increase in premature mortality, while women with HDP had an over two-fold higher risk of premature...
Emerging evidence suggests ketone bodies exert protective effects on patients with heart disease, potentially providing a safer alternative to the keto diet. Increasing circulating ketone levels through multiple mechanisms may offer therapeutic advantages in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
A systematic review found that female patients treated by female physicians experience better outcomes, while those treated by male physicians face higher mortality rates. The study suggests that increasing gender diversity in the physician workforce and improving training on patient-centered communication can help combat disparities.
A study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that mid-life cardiovascular disease prevention can protect against later dementia. The research suggests that controlling cardiovascular risk factors early on can reduce brain vulnerability to cognitive dysfunction.
The American College of Cardiology recommends prioritizing COVID-19 vaccination for patients with advanced cardiovascular disease over those with well-managed conditions. The policy statement considers exposure risks, clinical risks, and disparities among racial and ethnic groups and socioeconomic levels.
Research examines the role of transforming cardiovascular care in rural clinics, optimizing emergency room use, and successful adoption of virtual care. Studies show that hybrid models can provide more than 30% virtual care after COVID-19 restrictions lift, while also reducing unnecessary ER visits by 55.7%.
Four leading cardiovascular organizations call for structural actions to reduce air pollutants' harmful exposure, highlighting healthcare providers' crucial role in preventing illnesses. The statement emphasizes the importance of integrating air quality into disease management approaches and educating the public on clean air's benefits.
Researchers found a high prevalence of cardiovascular conditions in male breast cancer patients, including overweight, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. The study highlights the need for cardiologists and cardio-oncologists to be involved in treatment due to common risk factors and potential cardiotoxic effects.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant indirect impact on heart disease patients in the US and globally. Deaths from ischemic heart disease and hypertensive diseases increased during the pandemic, while cardiovascular testing disruptions were observed worldwide.
The global burden of cardiovascular disease is steadily rising, with nearly doubled cases from 271 million in 1990 to 523 million in 2019. The majority of CVD deaths globally were ischemic heart disease and stroke, increasing steadily over the past three decades.
A study by the American College of Cardiology found that fracking sites may increase heart failure hospitalizations across large regions. Environmental impacts of fracking, including air pollution and heavy truck traffic, can lead to adverse respiratory effects and worsening cardiac health.
The updated HCM guideline emphasizes shared decision-making in the management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It provides recommendations on evaluation and management, medical therapies, septal reduction therapies, and SCD risk assessment/prevention. The guideline aims to personalize treatment options based on patient goals and concerns.
Since its 2011 approval, TAVR has become the leading choice for aortic valve replacement in the US, with increasing volumes and improved outcomes. The STS/ACC TVT Registry data show significant reductions in mortality, stroke rates, and length of stay, while pacemaker implantation rates remain stable.
Diets high in proinflammatory foods increase heart disease and stroke risk, while anti-inflammatory diets like the Mediterranean diet lower inflammation levels. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods and limiting processed meats can help combat inflammation.
Research from the American College of Cardiology found that high consumption of both sugary and artificially sweetened drinks is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. The study analyzed data from over 104,000 participants and found that consuming either type of beverage increased the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the complex relationship between the virus and cardiovascular health. Researchers discuss the emergence of a new cardiometabolic syndrome composed of abnormal adiposity, dysglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hypertension.
The American College of Cardiology has announced the Hani Najm Global Scholar Awards, allowing two early career cardiologists to train in the US for four weeks. The awards are part of the ACC's Campaign for the Future, aiming to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease worldwide.
Research examines telehealth, health care disparities and patient-centered care during COVID-19 pandemic. Key findings include high patient satisfaction with telehealth visits and increased morbidity and mortality among cardiovascular patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
Influenza vaccination has shown promise in preventing cardiovascular complications from COVID-19, particularly in high-risk patients. Three ongoing trials are evaluating the cardioprotective effects of different influenza vaccine formulations and may inform future efforts to develop targeted interventions.
A Pesco-Mediterranean diet rich in plants, nuts, and fish reduces cardiovascular health risk. Intermittent fasting is also recommended as part of this diet.
Research found a significant increase in PCI procedures in Japan and the US between 2013 and 2017. Elective PCIs drove the increase in Japan, while non-elective PCIs were more prominent in the US.
According to an analysis of nearly 9,000 veterans, treatment in community facilities for elective PCI is associated with worse outcomes, including a 33% increased hazard of death within the first year after intervention. This trend may be linked to varying levels of expertise among community facilities.
A study of over 5,000 ACS patients found that 71.8% were malnourished, with worsening malnutrition status linked to increased risk of poor outcomes. The researchers suggest that nutritional screening may be a useful tool for identifying high-risk patients and improving cardiovascular care.
The American College of Cardiology has issued an expert consensus decision pathway to guide the initiation and monitoring of diabetes medications. The new guidance incorporates emerging study data on novel therapies that have been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes patients.
A nationwide Korean study confirms NSAID use increases cardiovascular and bleeding risks post-heart attack. The study suggests celecoxib and meloxicam may be alternative choices for patients where NSAID prescription is inevitable.
The African Heart Rhythm Association (AFHRA) statement highlights barriers to effective pacing, including skilled implanter shortages and high device costs. Researchers propose solutions, such as improved local training and collaboration with governments to address these challenges.
A recent study published by the American College of Cardiology found that preterm delivery is a strong independent risk factor for ischemic heart disease (IHD) in women throughout their lives. Women who gave birth before 37 weeks are at an increased risk of developing IHD, with risks remaining elevated even decades after delivery.
Researchers found that individuals with higher cardiovascular risk burdens experienced faster declines in episodic memory and working memory, as well as smaller hippocampal volumes. Maintaining heart health may be key to preventing cognitive decline, according to the study's findings.
The American College of Cardiology and global partners will host a Week of Action from May 18 to 24 to raise awareness about non-communicable diseases. The event celebrates the launch of the ACC's NCD Academy, which provides free mobile app-based training for primary care providers.
A study of 22,655 patients found that taking a PCSK9 inhibitor with a statin to achieve very low LDL-C levels did not cause increased incidence of neurocognitive impairments, including memory loss or reduction in executive functions. This confirms the safety of intensive LDL-C reduction for high-risk patients.
A recent study found that women who experienced hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing heart or kidney diseases earlier in life. The study, which analyzed data from over 7,500 women, suggests that this risk may be underestimated when considering only per-pregnancy rates.
The American College of Cardiology has issued a framework for safely reintroducing invasive cardiovascular procedures and diagnostic tests. The document highlights the need to prioritize patients with untreated cardiovascular disease and ensure fair access to care, while also protecting patients and healthcare workers from COVID-19.
A clinical trial found that smokers who received nicotine-containing e-cigarettes had a significantly higher quit rate compared to those who received only counseling. Participants using e-cigarettes reduced their daily cigarette consumption by 13 cigarettes per day, with overall quit rates of 21.9% at 12 weeks.
In a broad patient population, TAVR showed non-inferiority to open-heart surgery at one year. However, TAVR patients had higher rates of vascular complications and aortic regurgitation.
A new study found that Rivaroxaban significantly reduces the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after lower limb orthopedic surgery by 75%, compared to heparin, without increasing the risk of bleeding. This breakthrough has significant implications for patients undergoing non-major orthopedic surgeries.
Patients with atrial fibrillation who took oral anticoagulants alone after TAVR had a lower rate of bleeding complications without an increased risk of clotting-related complications. Oral anticoagulants alone were significantly less likely to suffer bleeding complications than those who took antiplatelet medication in addition.
A new study found vericiguat significantly lowers cardiovascular death and hospitalization rates in patients with worsening heart failure. With a median follow-up period of 10.8 months, the drug showed a 10% lower rate of primary endpoint events compared to placebo.
A phase three clinical trial found alirocumab to substantially reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in adult patients with HoFH, with an average relative reduction of 35.6%. The drug also reduced other harmful lipids typically elevated in people with FH.
A randomized trial found no survival difference in patients treated with intravenous sodium nitrite during resuscitation. Despite previous promising animal studies and a first-in-human clinical trial, the study showed no benefit in improving hospital admission or discharge rates.
Patients with untreated high blood pressure experienced statistically significant reductions in average blood pressure over 24 hours following renal denervation. The procedure offered an effective alternative approach to traditional medications, lowering blood pressure throughout the day and early morning periods.
In a two-year follow-up, patients undergoing TAVR showed comparable death, stroke, and rehospitalization rates compared to those who underwent open-heart valve replacement surgery, according to the PARTNER 3 trial. However, TAVR had higher rates of valve thrombosis, highlighting the need for further research on the procedure's durability.
A clinical trial using genetic testing to guide antiplatelet medication found a 34% reduction in serious cardiovascular events at one year, as well as a significant decrease in the number of events per patient. This finding suggests that genetically guided therapy may be beneficial for patients with specific genetic variants.
Researchers found evinacumab, a monoclonal antibody, reduced LDL cholesterol to near-normal levels among patients with HoFH, meeting the primary endpoint. Patients achieved an average relative reduction of 49% and nearly half had LDL cholesterol below 100mg/dL.
People with symptomatic PAD who took rivaroxaban with aspirin after revascularization had a significant reduction in the composite primary endpoint, including acute limb ischemia, major amputation, heart attack, ischemic stroke or cardiovascular death. Rivaroxaban also showed no excess in severe bleeding events.
A study analyzing data from nearly all TAVR patients in the US found that 34 medical centers reported worse-than-expected survival and quality-of-life outcomes among patients undergoing the procedure. The researchers identified key outcomes, including stroke, bleeding, kidney injury, and valve leakage, to assess patient care.
Patients with abnormal stress test results but clear arteries experience changes in symptoms over time. The study found that disease activity ebbs and flows, with periods of increased symptom severity and absence.