A lifestyle intervention program of increased physical activity and healthy eating, or taking the medication metformin, were found to be effective long-term in delaying or preventing Type 2 diabetes in adults with prediabetes. However, neither approach reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease over a 21-year follow-up period.
The American Heart Association has updated its guidelines for ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in children and adolescents, providing new evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice. The update aims to improve cardiovascular disease prevention and management in young populations.
A study estimates that more than 1 million U.S. adults carry a gene for familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder causing high cholesterol and potentially leading to premature heart attack or death. Genetic testing may help identify those at risk, but its affordability is a concern.
The new American Heart Association/American Stroke Association guideline refines care for people with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhages. The guideline recommends alternative treatments, such as intermittent pneumatic compression, and updates standard care practices.
A new study found that artery stiffness is a better predictor of future Type 2 diabetes risk than blood pressure or other standard risk factors. People with high blood pressure and stiffer arteries had the highest risk of developing diabetes, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.
Research links prediabetes to increased heart attack risk in young adults, highlighting the importance of lifestyle changes and routine health check-ups. The study found that individuals with prediabetes are 1.7 times more likely to be hospitalized for a heart attack compared to those without.
A targeted support program including patient education and regular monitoring by nurses improved blood pressure control among Black and Hispanic adults in the Bronx. The program resulted in participants taking their medication regularly and experiencing fewer episodes of uncontrolled high blood pressure.
A new mouse model study found that stress and depression can increase heart disease risk by preventing the beneficial effects of cholesterol-lowering medications. The research suggests that chronic stress can mediate epigenetic changes that make bone marrow precursors more inflammatory, leading to increased plaque formation.
A study analyzing over 11,000 medical records found Hispanic patients with chest pain face unwarranted delays in emergency care. Language barriers, cultural values, immigration status, and inadequate healthcare professionals contribute to these disparities.
A new study in mice identifies FXR1, a protein implicated in Fragile X syndrome, as a potential target for creating new blood pressure-lowering medicines. Deleting FXR1 in smooth muscle cells resulted in decreased diastolic blood pressure and altered vascular behavior.
A large retrospective study found death rates for cardiovascular diseases among Asian Americans varied by ethnicity, with some subgroups at higher risk. The study emphasizes the importance of separating Asian subgroups for accurate health outcomes and treatment strategies.
The American Heart Association published a new statement outlining policy solutions to promote equity in access to nutritious foods throughout the lifespan. The statement encourages policies that ensure nutrition security for all people across their lifespan.
The American Heart Association emphasizes the need for improved research, awareness and equity in women's heart health. The advisory highlights key indicators of cardiovascular health among women, including blood pressure control and diabetes management.
A new study found that a personalized text messaging support program improved lifestyle measures among heart attack survivors, including exercise habits and cholesterol levels. However, the program had no significant impact on medication adherence.
Research published in Circulation Journal Report found no cardiovascular disease benefits among adults using both e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes. E-cigarette use was associated with lower self-reported cardiovascular events compared to traditional cigarette smoking, but more data are needed for long-term evidence.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that women (18-55) and people of color with chest pain were evaluated less thoroughly and took longer to be seen in the ER. The delay could have implications for treatment and outcomes, highlighting the need for future research.
A new study found that adults who experienced childhood abuse were more likely to develop high cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes. In contrast, healthy childhood experiences may increase the likelihood of heart-healthy behaviors that decrease cardiovascular disease risks.
Researchers aim to improve pediatric heart transplant outcomes by identifying how certain drugs work and developing new medications to prevent damage to transplanted hearts. The studies will focus on a recently identified population of immune cells, MAIT cells, to adjust medication dosages and minimize side effects.
A new study published in Stroke Journal Report found that about one third of people treated with mechanical clot removal resumed work three months after stroke treatment. Women were half as likely to return to work compared to men, despite having more favorable characteristics for return to work.
A Mediterranean-style diet during pregnancy was associated with reduced preeclampsia risk, particularly among Black women. The study found that following this diet resulted in a significant reduction in the risk of developing preeclampsia, which is a major cause of complications and death for mothers and their unborn children.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common condition that can lead to chronic liver damage and cardiovascular disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as lifestyle changes can help prevent or reverse the condition.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that late menopause, occurring at age 55 or older, significantly increases heart failure risk among obese women. Obesity was a major contributing factor, with the risk being greatest among women who experienced late menopause.
A study of almost 57,000 hospitalizations with COVID-19 found acute myocarditis occurred in about two out of every 1,000 people. This rare condition is associated with more severe illness and complications, especially among those with pneumonia. The analysis suggests a need for intensive care unit admission in up to 70.5% of cases.
Heart complications from COVID-19 are rare but treatable in children and young adults. The American Heart Association statement highlights the importance of ongoing research to understand long-term cardiovascular effects.
Disparities in social determinants of health affect people with congenital heart disease, leading to unequal access to care. Strategies to address these issues include increasing specialist availability and improving telehealth capabilities.
A new study published by the American Heart Association found that sitting Tai Chi exercises improved short-term outcomes in stroke survivors with hand and arm weakness or partial paralysis. The modified sitting routine showed benefits in balance, coordination, strength, and flexibility, making it an effective option for these patients.
A gene map predicted the likelihood of high blood pressure leading to heart problems or stroke in people with Type 2 diabetes. The study identified a genetic risk score that correlated with increased cardiovascular event risk, highlighting the potential for personalized treatment strategies.
A study of over 365,000 adults found that people who survive an ischemic stroke are more likely to develop major heart complications and have an increased risk of death and future strokes. Researchers highlight the importance of secondary prevention efforts for this high-risk population.
A large prospective study found a positive association between higher avocado consumption and lower cardiovascular events. Avocados contain healthy fats and other favorable components that support good cardiovascular health.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement finds that timely treatment can help avoid additional disability and health impacts in people with pre-existing disabilities or dementia. The statement also highlights the need for increased awareness of potential biases and improved patient-centered care.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has found a direct and significant relationship between the number of fires fought by firefighters and the risk of developing irregular heart rhythms, specifically atrial fibrillation. The analysis revealed that for every additional 5 fires fought annually, the r...
Experts provide a concise review of the experience of lay people who have performed CPR, assessing their motivations and psychological impact. The statement suggests understanding these perspectives is critical to improve training, motivation, and experience of lay responders, potentially raising the rate of bystander CPR.
A study published in the American Heart Association's Hypertension Journal found that a significant rise in blood pressure upon standing may identify those with a higher risk of serious cardiovascular events. Young adults with untreated stage 1 hypertension who experienced an exaggerated blood pressure response to standing were five ti...
Most people born with heart defects now survive past childhood, requiring seamless transition to adult-oriented healthcare. The American Heart Association updates guidelines for managing congenital heart disease in adolescents and young adults, highlighting the importance of involving individuals and families in research.
New research suggests that routine mammograms can provide key insights into a woman's risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that detection of breast arterial calcifications on mammograms was associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke in postmenopausal women.
A new study found that consuming a balanced diet with proteins from various different sources may help prevent the development of high blood pressure. The analysis involved nearly 12,200 adults in China and found an association between protein variety score and reduced risk of new-onset hypertension.
A study of nearly 600,000 adults found that those diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder had a higher risk of cardiovascular disease at younger ages. This highlights the importance of addressing cardiovascular risk factors for these individuals as early as possible.
A study published in the American Heart Association's Circulation journal found that people with congenital heart defects who contracted COVID-19 were more likely to require intensive care or need a ventilator. The risk of severe illness was higher among those with additional health conditions, older adults, and men.
A study of nearly 312,400 adults found that consuming wine with meals was associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The analysis suggested that moderate drinking may have health benefits for glucose metabolism, but the exact mechanism is unclear.
Researchers studied adherence to three healthy eating patterns (Alternative Mediterranean Diet, Healthy Eating Index, and Plant-based Diet Index) in 10,766 Hispanic/Latino adults. Higher scores in any of these diets were associated with lower cardiovascular risk, suggesting that people have more choices for healthy diets.
A study found that resistance exercise improved sleep duration and efficiency, while aerobic exercise had limited effects. The findings suggest that incorporating resistance training into one's routine may help promote better sleep and improve overall cardiovascular health.
A study of predominantly low-income Hispanic/Latina women found that diets high in solid fat, refined grains and cheese increased the likelihood of preeclampsia, while diets rich in non-starchy vegetables, oils and fruit may lower blood pressure risk during pregnancy
A recent study found a significant association between oral bacteria and the development of hypertension in postmenopausal women. Researchers analyzed data from over 1,200 participants and identified 15 bacterial strains linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure.
A study found that using a one-size-fits-all approach to blood pressure cuffs can lead to inaccuracies in measurements and diagnosis. Using an appropriately sized cuff reduced the risk of misclassification, with smaller cuffs underestimating blood pressure readings and larger cuffs overestimating them.
Researchers tested the magnetic field output of various portable electronic devices and found that strong magnets can disrupt the operation of implanted pacemakers or ICDs. The recommended safety distance varies between 0.8 cm for some devices, highlighting the need for awareness among cardiac patients.
Women who enter menopause before age 40 are more likely to develop dementia later in life compared to those who begin menopause at 50-51 years. Lowered estrogen levels may contribute to this increased risk, with strategies such as exercise and healthy lifestyle habits potentially reducing the risk of dementia.
A new study found that assisted reproductive technology (ART) is independently associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and pregnancy-related complications. Women conceiving through ART may be at higher risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy and future cardiovascular disease.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that women who experienced sexual assault and workplace harassment are at a higher risk of developing hypertension. The study analyzed data from over 33,000 women and found that experiencing both types of trauma had the highest risk of hypertension.
Researchers found that heart attack survivors were less likely to develop Parkinson's disease over a 21-year follow-up period. The study adjusted for various factors and found an inverse relationship between heart attacks and Parkinson's risk, suggesting cardiac rehabilitation should focus on preventing other cardiovascular diseases.
According to new research published in the American Heart Association's Circulation journal, only about 40% of women in the US had good heart health before getting pregnant. Poor pre-pregnancy health is linked to poor outcomes for babies at birth and can also lead to poor heart health later in life.