Jackie Sherrill, a two-time national champion coach, will receive the Paul ’Bear’ Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award in 2027, recognizing his outstanding career accomplishments and dedication to developing young people. The award supports the American Heart Association’ lifesaving mission, honoring coach Bryant’s legacy and celebrating ...
The American Heart Association has selected 5 finalists for its 2026 Health Tech Competition to advance solutions for heart and brain health. The finalists will present their market-ready technologies at Scientific Sessions 2026 in Chicago, with a focus on improving cardiovascular and brain health outcomes.
During menopause, women are at greater risk for heart disease and stroke, making it crucial to focus on health before and during the transition. Healthcare professionals recommend discussing concerns with a healthcare team and taking proactive steps to protect cardiovascular health.
Bruce Arians, a renowned coach and mentor, has been selected for the 2027 Paul 'Bear' Bryant Heart of a Champion Award. The American Heart Association honors his exceptional contributions to college football and the community, recognizing his resilience and commitment to helping others.
Effective management of high blood pressure could prevent over 518,000 annual deaths from cardiovascular disease worldwide. The study found that expanding treatment of high blood pressure, statin medications for high cholesterol, and managing blood sugar could reduce the most deaths.
Research highlights the association between masked high blood pressure and falls in older adults, with a 70% higher risk of falls. Home blood pressure monitoring can provide valuable information for clinical assessment and guide treatment decisions.
Researchers tested four leading AI-powered search tools and found they accurately identified validated home blood pressure monitors only 63-83% of the time. This suggests AI tools struggle to interpret validation listings on official registries, leading to potential inaccuracies in blood pressure readings.
A new study suggests that a potassium-rich diet, as part of the DASH diet, does not raise blood potassium levels in adults taking common blood pressure medications. This finding is significant, as high levels of potassium in the blood can cause problems with heart function, particularly in people with impaired kidney function.
Dr. Appel's research has established a direct connection between a healthy diet and high blood pressure, and his work has translated complex nutrition science into clear, actionable strategies. The DASH trial demonstrated that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products can substantially reduce blood pressure.
Dr. Emily Lau's research found that maternal cardiovascular disease and pregnancy-related cardiovascular complications increased over nearly two decades, with higher rates among non-Hispanic Black women. The study emphasizes the need to make cardiovascular health a routine part of care before, during, and after pregnancy to address dis...
Dr. Annet Kirabo's research revealed how immune activation and inflammation contribute to high blood pressure, identifying potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating hypertension. Her work has reshaped the understanding of cardiovascular disease, opening exciting possibilities for new treatments.
Adults in their 60s with lower cognitive test scores were more likely to experience a future stroke, according to a new study in Sweden. The study, which examined nearly 5,000 older adults, found that those with lower cognitive function scores were at increased risk of stroke.
Dr. Pradeep Natarajan's innovative research has transformed the understanding and prevention of cardiovascular disease by identifying genetic mechanisms and developing polygenic risk prediction tools. His work has also accelerated the development of novel therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Katherine Tuttle's pioneering work has transformed the treatment of chronic kidney disease, reducing risks of kidney failure and cardiovascular events. Her research has established SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists as breakthrough therapies for CKD and cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome.
A new study aims to find new ways to prevent strokes in people with chronic migraine by understanding the link between cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health. The research also explores the role of immune cells in blood vessels and their impact on migraine attacks.
Dr. Jennifer Lawton, a renowned researcher, will receive the 2026 Basic Research Prize for her groundbreaking work on heart-brain protection during cardiac surgery. Her laboratory has advanced the understanding of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels and the cardioprotective effects of diazoxide.
The American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the need for sex-specific research analyses and tailored care to improve women's kidney health. Women are more likely to experience delayed diagnosis and treatment due to differences in biology and social factors.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement reveals that cardiovascular disease has surpassed cancer as the leading cause of death among Hispanic adults in the U.S. due to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. The statement highlights the need for culturally tailored prevention strategies, equitable acce...
Researchers analyzed data from the Framingham Heart Study to investigate the relationship between menopause and aortic stiffness. The study found that factors other than menopause timing contributed to the increase in pulse pressure in women after midlife.
Research suggests that mental health conditions, including PTSD, substance abuse, and depression, can increase the risk of future cardiovascular risks such as heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death. Alcohol abuse was found to be the top psychiatric predictor of serious heart and brain conditions for both men and women.
A new guideline from the American Stroke Association emphasizes the importance of early, individualized rehabilitation to help survivors of stroke regain independence and quality of life. The comprehensive approach addresses physical, cognitive, communication, and emotional challenges throughout recovery.
A new study found that nearly 8 out of 10 young adult participants had cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome, with early signs of arterial injury. The study suggests promoting the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 early in life to improve cardiovascular health.
The American Heart Association is launching a global health tech competition to accelerate innovation in cardiovascular and brain health. The competition connects market-ready solutions with opportunities to scale into real-world healthcare, emphasizing clinical validation and alignment with evidence-based care.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that even low levels of physical activity can increase life expectancy for adults with or without atrial fibrillation. The research tracked over 87,000 adults in Norway for 15 years and found a positive association between physical activity and reduced stro...
Nearly 23 million Americans with high blood pressure may be eligible for treatment according to the 2025 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guideline. Lifestyle changes are key, but medication can save thousands of lives if prescribed and combined with lifestyle modifications.
The American Heart Association states that consuming up to 400 mg of caffeine per day, equivalent to 5 cups of caffeinated coffee, is safe and may be linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease for some individuals. However, high doses of caffeine from energy drinks and other sources may cause cardiovascular harm.
The American Heart Association and the National Football League have awarded $350,000 in grants to 164 schools across 44 states to promote physical activity and student well-being. The NFL PLAY 60 initiative encourages children to engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
At the 2026 MLB All-Star Game, fans learned Hands-Only CPR skills, receiving walk-up instruction and learning simple lifesaving techniques. Over 2500 attendees mastered chest compressions at the proper depth and pace, increasing chances of survival.
Research reveals a link between socio-economic factors and health outcomes for adults with congenital heart disease, highlighting the need for improved access to specialized cardiac care.
Research suggests a potential biological pathway linking chronic oral gum disease to calcific aortic valve stenosis, a common and serious heart valve disease. Studies found bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis present in calcified aortic valves, leading to inflammation and valve hardening.
The American Heart Association brought Hands-Only CPR training to FIFA Fan events in the US, with over 8,000 attendees participating. This effort aims to double survival rates from cardiac arrest by 2030 and educate more people on lifesaving skills.
A global analysis found alcohol use and smoking to be common risk factors for both breast cancer and atrial fibrillation/flutter in women ages 55 and older. High-risk zones were predominantly in Western countries with greater exposure to these lifestyle risks.
The study found a 37% increase in obesity and a two-fold increase in severe obesity among both adults and youth over 20 years. Obesity rates have major implications for cardiovascular disease and mortality, highlighting the need for targeted initiatives to address the rising epidemic.
Dr. Bradley A. Maron, a renowned clinical cardiologist and researcher, takes the helm as editor-in-chief of Circulation, shaping the journal's editorial direction and commitment to practice-changing science. He aims to reinvigorate cardiovascular science and medicine published in Circulation with additional transparency.
The American Heart Association has named its new volunteer leaders for the 2026-27 fiscal year, including Manesh R. Patel as volunteer president and Lee A. Shapiro as chairperson. Patel is a physician/scientist specializing in interventional cardiology, while Shapiro is a financial expert in health technology.
A new study found that GLP-1 receptor agonists can improve long-term health for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD), managing blood sugar and weight loss while reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function. The benefits were highest among participants with severe PAD and obesity.
Research studies show that e-cigarette chemicals may harm cardiovascular health, including irregular heartbeat and cardiac arrest. The American Heart Association cautions consumers and policymakers about the potential risks of e-cigarette use.
The updated international definition of heart failure introduces a new classification system emphasizing earlier detection and personalized treatment. The revised framework standardizes terminology, recognizing that heart failure is not a static condition.
A long-term study published in Circulation found that consuming sugary drinks and fruit juice in childhood may increase the risk of developing high blood pressure later in life. The study suggests that substituting these beverages with whole fruits, milk, and water may be associated with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.
The NFL PLAY 60 initiative encourages children to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day to support both immediate and long-term physical and mental health. The program is rooted in the American Heart Association's physical activity guidelines, which recommend at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily fo...
The American Heart Association and International Federation for Emergency Medicine collaborate to strengthen training, research, and systems of care for emergency cardiovascular and resuscitative care. The three-year agreement aims to improve access to training, education, and emergency care resources in low- and middle-income countries.
A meta-analysis of 14 clinical trials found that using smartphone apps or wearable technologies can increase daily step count and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity among people with heart disease. The analysis showed that digital tools, such as self-monitoring, feedback, and goal setting, can motivate patients to be more active.
Research in mice and human heart cells suggests that synthetic cooling agents in e-cigarettes can disrupt heart rhythm, causing abnormal beats and increased cardiovascular risk. The study's findings have implications for policymakers reviewing current rules on coolants used in vapes.
The American Heart Association's Primary Care Perspectives platform provides practical education and tools to identify cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic risk factors connected to heart failure. This initiative aims to improve long-term outcomes and reduce preventable disease progression by supporting earlier identification and mana...
The new clinical practice guideline provides recommendations for identifying cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome risk earlier and taking action to protect long-term heart, metabolic, and kidney health. Lifestyle modification, including the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8 measures, can help prevent a range of ...
The new clinical guideline identifies excess weight, especially in the abdomen, as a key driver for cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome. Nearly 9 in 10 adults in the US have at least one condition within this syndrome, which includes high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol and metabolic conditions like diabetes and obesity.
Adults with both obesity and an autoimmune disease who took a GLP-1-based medication had fewer emergency department visits and lower mortality rates compared to those not taking the medication. The study analyzed data from over 26,000 adults treated in the OneFlorida+ network between 2014 and 2024.
The American Heart Association introduces a new certification to recognize advanced expertise in managing stroke programs, improving outcomes and driving quality improvements. Certified coordinators play a central role in reducing length of stay, lowering mortality rates, and decreasing readmissions.
The NWSL has partnered with the American Heart Association to promote lifesaving CPR education and empower communities to act in critical moments. The league-wide initiative, led by Angel City FC defender Savy King, aims to double survival rates of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests by 2030.
The American Heart Association has named eight companies to its Heart and Brain Health Accelerator, a program designed to advance innovative technologies in cardiovascular health. The selected companies will receive mentorship, coaching, and capacity building from the American Heart Association Ventures.