A real-world study found that mechanical thrombectomy reduced post-stroke disability in nearly half of ischemic stroke patients. The study analyzed 1,000 adult patients and found that clot composition played a role in recovery outcomes.
Researchers analyzed severe strokes in children and found that those who received mechanical clot removal had significantly better recovery outcomes compared to those who did not. The study suggests that mechanical clot removal may be beneficial for children after severe stroke, and health systems should improve access to this treatment.
A new study compares outcomes for acute ischemic stroke patients treated at various levels of stroke centers, finding that Comprehensive Stroke Centers (CSC) and Thrombectomy-capable Stroke Centers (TSC) provide better care and improved outcomes. Patients treated at CSC or TSC tend to receive rapid treatment with clot-busting medicatio...
Researchers found targeted DOAC medications to be as effective as warfarin in preventing future clots and reducing the risk of brain bleeds. The study's real-world data suggests that DOACs have a lower risk of major bleeding compared to warfarin.
A new study from China suggests that tenecteplase, a bioengineered variant of alteplase, may increase the time for stroke treatment beyond 4.5 hours, potentially saving lives. The medication appears safe and potent in reestablishing blood flow through blocked brain vessels, but more research is needed to understand its effectiveness in...
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the need for caution when using marijuana due to its impact on brain health. Previous animal studies suggest that THC can disrupt memory, learning, and brain development, particularly in adolescence. The statement also raises concerns about the risks of cannabis use durin...
The American Heart Association has outlined five core elements to optimize the treatment of in-hospital strokes. These include education, quality review, and oversight for in-patient stroke response teams. Developing targeted quality improvement plans is crucial to reducing delays and improving outcomes for hospitalized patients.
A randomized study in Japan found that mechanical clot removal in addition to standard medical therapy can significantly improve functional recovery for patients with severe strokes. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of endovascular therapy in patients with large-vessel clots disrupting blood flow to more areas of the brain.
The American Stroke Association honored 12 leading stroke scientists for their outstanding contributions to the field, including Moira Kapral and Karen Johnston, who received the Edgar J. Kenton III Lecture Award and William M. Feinberg Award for Excellence in Clinical Stroke, respectively.
The American Stroke Association has honored 12 leading stroke scientists for their groundbreaking research and outstanding contributions to the field. The honorees include four pioneering researchers, seven authors of notable studies, and one scientist recognized for mentorship.
Researchers found that young adults with cannabis use disorder are more likely to experience recurrent strokes compared to those without the condition. The study suggests that chronic marijuana use may impair blood vessel function and increase the risk of future strokes.
Researchers found no notable differences in early hospital arrival time or use of EMS for first-time and recurrent strokes, despite varying patient characteristics. The study highlights the need for more information about stroke signs and symptoms to improve hospital arrival times and reduce disability.
A new telehealth strategy for post-stroke care improved patient engagement and blood pressure control among stroke survivors living in underserved communities. The study found that remote blood pressure monitoring with mobile devices and video visits led to better health outcomes.
Researchers analyzed data from over 35,000 adults who had no history of stroke or dementia. Those with optimal cardiovascular health showed a 2.4% higher brain volume, equivalent to a 7-year younger brain. Good blood pressure control and healthy blood sugar levels also contributed to healthier brain imaging measures.
New research reveals that one in three US stroke survivors experience food insecurity, which can exacerbate cardiovascular disease and stroke risk. Healthcare professionals can play a crucial role in addressing food insecurity by engaging with patients and providing support or resources.
Research suggests that high blood pressure during young adulthood may contribute to changes in the brain later in life, increasing the risk for cognitive decline. A study of 142 adults found significant brain changes in midlife, averaging age 55, linked to vascular risk factors.
A study of over 64,700 Black adults found that those born in the US had a higher rate of death from cardiovascular diseases and all causes compared to those born in other countries. The researchers suggest that early migration may have a 'carryover' effect on mortality rates.
A study examining national data of adults aged 60 and older found that smoking is strongly linked to poor brain health, independent of other medical conditions. Smoking was associated with lower cognitive test scores in this population.
Researchers analyzed data from hospitals in the US, Australia, and New Zealand to compare alteplase and tenecteplase for treating ischemic strokes. The study found that patients treated with tenecteplase had significantly lower rates of serious bleeding into the brain compared to those treated with alteplase.
A new scoring system using data from the American Heart Association's COVID-19 Registry predicted the risk of stroke among adults hospitalized with COVID-19. The study found that six clinical factors, including age, medical conditions, and vital signs, helped identify patients at increased risk of stroke.
A study examining the health records of 37,379 Medicare beneficiaries found that older adults are at the highest risk of stroke within the first three days after COVID-19 diagnosis. Vaccination and other preventive measures can help reduce this risk.
The incidence of stroke among adults ages 49 and younger in the US has increased over the last 30 years, particularly in the South and Midwest regions. Meanwhile, the rate of strokes among older adults (ages 75+) has declined.
Researchers found that participants who had a heart attack experienced significant cognitive decline several years later. The study suggests that managing risk factors to prevent a heart attack may also help slow cognitive decline.
Middle-aged men with high levels of anxiety and worry are at greater biological risk for developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes as they age. The study found that cardiometabolic disease risk increased with age, regardless of anxiety levels, but anxious individuals were more likely to develop the condition over time.
A meta-analysis found that breastfeeding significantly lowers a mother's risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. The review analyzed health data from nearly 1.2 million women across eight studies conducted in different countries.
New American Heart Association scientific statement highlights gap between existing evidence on reducing cardiovascular risk and reality for people living with T2D. Available therapies can help when combined with new approaches addressing social determinants of health and other barriers to care.
Researchers found that chronic use of sildenafil aggravated the development of abdominal aortic aneurysms in mice, disrupting smooth muscle cells' ability to contract. The study suggests caution when prescribing PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil for patients with existing aortic aneurysmal lesions.
A new study found significant demographic and regional disparities in premature heart attack deaths in the US, with middle-aged adults, men, Black adults, and rural residents facing higher risks. The analysis suggests that targeted interventions and evidence-based strategies can help narrow these disparities and improve outcomes
A new study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes Journal found that increasing the use of generic medications for heart and blood vessel diseases in Medicare Part D could save more than $600 million per year. This would lead to lower out-of-pocket costs for patients and improved adherence rates.
Research published in ATVB Journal Report reveals that exposure to low-levels of toxic metals can increase the risk of plaque buildup in arteries in the neck, heart, and legs. The study focused on subclinical atherosclerosis and examined the impact of metal exposure on various artery regions.
Researchers found that most cases of suspected COVID-19 vaccine-related myocarditis in people younger than 21 are mild and resolve quickly. The study suggests that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination far exceed the rare risks of adverse events, including myocarditis.
A recent study found that US adults experienced higher blood pressure levels during the COVID-19 pandemic due to increased sedentary behavior, poor eating habits, and stress. The American Heart Association emphasizes the need for regular exercise, a healthy diet, and monitoring blood pressure to manage cardiovascular risk factors.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights how major life events, such as starting school or entering retirement, can negatively impact physical activity levels and heart health. The statement emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address this issue and provides guidance for healthcare professionals to pro...
A new study found that stroke survivors are more likely to continue cigarette smoking than cancer survivors, putting them at higher risk for subsequent strokes and heart disease. Researchers recommend developing robust smoking cessation programs for stroke patients similar to those offered to cancer patients.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that smoking may be the first sign of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in some individuals. The research, which analyzed data from nine long-term cohort studies, discovered that fatal or non-fatal heart attacks and strokes were more common among smokers, particula...
A randomized trial found that drinking caffeinated coffee is associated with a 54% increase in premature ventricular contractions and fewer episodes of supraventricular tachycardia. Coffee consumption also promotes more physical activity but reduces sleep duration, which can have numerous adverse health outcomes.
A randomized placebo-controlled trial found canagliflozin improved symptoms, function, and quality of life for patients with heart failure. The study used a virtual approach, demonstrating the success of decentralized clinical trials.
The oral PCSK9 inhibitor MK-0616 has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 65% in patients with high cholesterol, without causing serious side effects. The study's findings suggest that MK-0616 could be a promising new treatment option for lowering bad cholesterol.
A study found that stem cell therapy reduced the number of heart attacks, strokes, and deaths among people with chronic heart failure, especially those with high levels of inflammation. However, hospitalization rates did not decrease despite the treatment, according to researchers from the American Heart Association.
A study found that repairing both the mitral and tricuspid valves during mitral valve surgery can reduce the risk of severe tricuspid valve leakage in adults with moderate or less than moderate tricuspid regurgitation. This approach also showed improved outcomes, including lower mortality rates and better survival.
Researchers found no significant increase in bleeding when patients had bypass surgery within 2-3 days of discontinuing ticagrelor. This study challenges current guidelines and opens up the possibility for future research on early surgery to prevent recurrent heart attacks or angina.
A high dose of purified omega-3 fatty acid did not reduce incidents of hospitalizations and deaths among people with COVID-19. The treatment was well-tolerated but showed a positive trend for benefit, although it was not statistically significant.
A village doctor-led intervention was found to be effective in reducing blood pressure levels by over half of participants within 18 months. The program, which included health coaching and home blood pressure monitoring, improved healthcare access for those with uncontrolled high blood pressure in rural China.
New research presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2021 found that daily low-dose aspirin did not affect the risk of dementia or mental decline among adults with type 2 diabetes. The study included over 15,000 participants and tracked them for nearly nine years.
A recent study found that monitoring individual triggers for atrial fibrillation can lead to fewer episodes. Participants who tracked their triggers reported a significant reduction in AFib episodes, suggesting that real-time assessments can empower patients to make lifestyle changes and reduce the risk of complications.
A new study suggests that early aortic valve replacement surgery can be beneficial even in patients without symptoms of severe aortic stenosis. The research found that reducing the risk of death, heart attack, stroke, and heart failure by performing surgery sooner can lead to better patient outcomes.
A recent study published at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2021 found that adults treated with empagliflozin during hospitalization for acute heart failure experienced increased survival, lower risk of re-hospitalization, and improved quality of life. The medication, originally used to treat type 2 diabetes, has bee...
A novel software algorithm detected irregular heart rhythms and identified undiagnosed atrial fibrillation with high reliability. The algorithm requires at least 30 minutes of sensing irregular heart rhythms to indicate the presence of possible atrial fibrillation.
A two-year study found that dabigatran and warfarin can help prevent cognitive decline in older adults with atrial fibrillation. The study, known as GIRAF, included 200 adults over age 70 with confirmed atrial fibrillation.
Research found that adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and atrial fibrillation were less likely to notice irregular heartbeat symptoms, had a lower quality of life, and experienced more co-occurring health conditions than those without diabetes. This delay in diagnosis may lead to more complications such as stroke.