A new study found that the Zoster Vaccine Live shingles vaccination may prevent some older adults from having a stroke, reducing the risk by about 16% for ischemic stroke and 12% for hemorrhagic stroke. The vaccine's protection was strongest among people ages 66 to 79 years.
Researchers found that Blacks have a 50% increased risk of stroke compared to non-Hispanic whites, while Hispanics have a 50% increased risk. Disparities persist even into old age and are driven by modifiable risk factors such as smoking and high blood pressure.
Research found that optimistic patients had lower inflammation levels, reduced stroke severity, and less physical disability after three months. Optimism was linked to better disease outcomes, suggesting a positive environment can benefit recovery.
Researchers analyzed data from over 49,000 adults and found that while overall smoking rates have decreased among Americans aged 20+, the rate of stroke survivors who smoke remains steady. The study emphasizes the importance of quitting smoking for stroke survivors, citing the highly addictive nature of nicotine.
A study of young African American adults found that high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity contribute to a higher stroke risk. Improved nutrition and healthy eating habits can help mitigate this risk by increasing stroke awareness among this group.
A study of nearly 20,000 participants found that living in the Stroke Belt as a child or young adult increased the risk of cognitive impairment later in life. Moving away from the region at middle age may provide some protection against cognitive decline linked to stroke.
Researchers found a strong association between gum disease and large artery strokes, as well as severe brain blood vessel blockages. Gum disease may contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by hardening of blood vessels.
Researchers found that developing seizures after a severe ischemic stroke increases the risk of death and disability. The study identified several risk factors for post-stroke seizures, including age, severity of stroke, and previous heart conditions.
Researchers found that a new stimulation treatment increased blood flow to the brain and improved hand strength in patients with minor strokes. The treatment also showed promise in decreasing disability in patients with severe stroke, regardless of age, sex, or severity of symptoms.
Researchers followed patients with diabetes who developed diabetic retinopathy and found a 60% higher risk of stroke among those with damaged eye vessels. Patients with diabetic retinopathy should receive aggressive medical management to reduce stroke risk.
Researchers analyzed data from over 300,000 people and found that genetics significantly increases the risk of stroke and heart attack in men compared to women. The study suggests that genetic scores could be used to identify healthy middle-aged adults at higher risk and develop preventive measures.
Research suggests that low levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) may be associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke in postmenopausal women. The study, which examined data from over 13,000 women, found that those with the lowest SHBG levels were 51% more likely to have had a stroke.
Researchers developed a simple risk score prediction model to determine stroke risk in adults with migraine accompanied by aura. The study found that those with high-risk scores were about 7 times more likely to have a stroke than low-risk individuals.
Preliminary research found that regularly golfing can lower the risk of death among older adults. Golfing was associated with a significantly lower rate of death compared to non-golfers, likely due to its benefits such as stress reduction and regular exercise.
A portable, low-field Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) system has been developed to provide safe and practical brain imaging at a patient's bedside, according to preliminary research. The device used 85 stroke patients, with most completing the exam in under 30 minutes, while factors like claustrophobia halted some tests.
A Finnish study found that patients taking cholesterol or blood pressure-lowering medications were more likely to become obese and reduce their physical activity levels. The research highlights the importance of maintaining healthy habits even when starting prescription medications.
Research published in the American Heart Association's journal found that hookah smoke causes blood clots to form within an average of 11 seconds, compared to 5 minutes without exposure. Hookah smoking increases the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Fulminant myocarditis, a rare condition causing severe inflammation of the heart, is increasingly being recognized due to advancements in technology. Early recognition, circulatory support, and maintenance of end-organ function can lead to favorable outcomes for patients with fulminant myocarditis.
A new study by a Canadian research team found that office workers who spend long hours on the job are more likely to have high blood pressure, including masked hypertension. The study of over 3,500 white-collar employees revealed a link between long working hours and sustained hypertension.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association finds that heavy drinking can cause subclinical heart damage, increasing levels of blood biomarkers associated with inflammation and cardiac wall stretch. Heavy drinkers are more likely to experience cardiovascular disease than non-problem drinkers.
The American Heart Association suggests focusing on an overall heart-healthy dietary pattern that replaces saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats to maintain healthy LDL cholesterol levels. A nutrient-rich diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that low-dose aspirin did not reduce the risk of a fatal heart attack among African Americans, unlike in white populations. The study used data from over 65,000 participants and suggested genetic differences and poor control of other risk factors may contribute to this result.
Geriatric conditions like frailty and cognitive impairments can worsen in cardiac intensive care units, even with excellent heart care. Early mobilization and addressing polypharmacy may improve patient outcomes.
A new study found that mobile stroke units in Manhattan reduced treatment time by approximately 30 minutes compared to traditional ambulances. This faster treatment led to improved patient outcomes and potentially life-saving results.
A four-year study found that immigration deportation worries double the risk of developing high blood pressure in Mexican-born women, highlighting potential negative impacts on cardiovascular health. The study suggests considering immigration policies' effects on stress levels and subsequent blood pressure outcomes.
A new study found that nearly 2 million people in the US skip medications due to cost concerns, with those under 65 and from low-income families being most affected. The study highlights the need for lower-cost generic drugs and advocating for changes in national healthcare policy to address this issue.
The new 2019 Clinical Performance and Quality Measures for Adults with High Blood Pressure aim to accelerate translation of scientific evidence into clinical practice. The measures evaluate patient care in accordance with the 2017 Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines, including timeliness, safety, effectiveness, efficiency, equity...
Research suggests that heart health begins to deteriorate in adolescent girls, particularly black girls, with lower cardiovascular health scores. Factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, and depression contribute to the decline, emphasizing the need for early intervention and healthy lifestyle choices.
Two new studies presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions found that frequent cannabis use among young people is linked to a higher risk of stroke and heart rhythm disturbances. Young users who smoked cigarettes or e-cigarettes were three times more likely to have a stroke compared to non-users.
Researchers used deep neural networks to analyze ECG test results from over 2 million patients, identifying those at high risk of developing atrial fibrillation or dying within a year. The models were found to be superior in predicting mortality risk even in patients with normal ECGs.
A study found that almost 1 in 3 heart disease patients skip the flu shot, with uninsured individuals having the highest non-vaccination rate. Flu vaccinations are proven to prevent illness and death in people with heart disease, emphasizing the need for education and vaccination efforts.
Researchers found that women with stable heart disease experienced a higher risk of major cardiovascular events after a stressful activity, compared to men. The study measured inflammatory biomarkers in response to stress and tracked participants for three years.
Women experiencing menopause before age 40 are at higher risk for several heart conditions, according to a study using the UK Biobank. The research found that premature menopause is associated with an increased likelihood of developing conventional heart disease risk factors.
Two studies examine the effects of intensive blood pressure control on life expectancy, with a target systolic blood pressure of less than 120 mm Hg. A cost-effectiveness analysis found that targeting high-risk patients is the most cost-effective approach over 10 years.
Research links depression to increased odds of heart disease and stroke, with a 24% increase in risk for each additional level of depression severity. The study analyzed data from over 11,000 adults diagnosed with depression and found a significant association between depression and non-fatal heart disease.
Researchers implemented the Northeast Health Equity Consortium to address heart disease and stroke disparities in at-risk communities. The initiative helped states achieve major goals for eliminating health disparities, including over one million free blood pressure screenings.
Researchers at American Heart Association Scientific Sessions reveal that e-cigarettes pose significant cardiovascular threats. Contrary to popular belief, e-cigarettes do not appear to be a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes regarding heart health.
Research suggests female veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have higher rates of diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, tobacco smoking, and obesity compared to those without PTSD. This increased risk may put female veterans with PTSD at a greater risk for developing heart disease.
Children and teens with abnormal heart rhythms are at a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A study found that over 20% of kids with arrhythmias had been prescribed medication for these conditions, compared to 5% of children with sickle cell disease.
Research from Northwestern University and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center found that mothers' heart health during pregnancy affects their child's cardiovascular health long-term. Children who had good heart health in utero were more likely to have healthy hearts as tweens and teens.
A study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions found that racial bias can influence decision-making for advanced heart failure therapies, particularly for black patients. African immigrants who reported more experience of discrimination were also found to have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease risk fact...
Researchers found that delays in CPR are more likely to result in lawsuits and financial damages than providing CPR itself. The study analyzed 30 years of U.S. legal cases involving CPR, with over $620 million in settlements for delayed CPR and only $120,000 for performing CPR.
Researchers found that patients who suffered a cardiac arrest between Saturday and Sunday were about 20% less likely to survive than those on weekdays. The study suggests improving AED awareness, availability, and training can help address weekend cardiac arrests.
A study of over 65,000 postmenopausal women found specific jobs, including healthcare providers, are associated with poorer cardiovascular health. Researchers suggest occupation is an important determinant of women's heart health, highlighting the need for workplace health programs to improve heart health.
A recent study found that opioid overdose victims who suffer cardiac arrest differ from other cardiac arrest patients, with unique characteristics that may require different treatment. Opioid-related cardiac arrest survivors are more likely to be admitted to a hospital due to improved survival rates in urban and rural areas.
Researchers found that women who consumed more calories in the evening had poorer heart health, with a higher proportion of daily calories after 6pm linked to increased cardiovascular disease risk. The study suggests that intentional eating habits can be a simple and modifiable behavior to help lower heart disease risk.
A new study reveals that people with cardiovascular disease are at higher risk of developing cancer, while those with more risk factors for heart disease are also more likely to develop cancer. Lifestyle habits that reduce heart disease risk, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, may also help prevent some cancers.
Preliminary research found that men who maintained high levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity both before and after their heart attacks were 39% less likely to die from any cause. Regular physical activity after a heart attack is associated with better survival, even in older adults.
Researchers found that ultra-processed foods account for over half of daily calories and are linked to lower cardiovascular health measures. Adults who consumed 70% of their calories from ultra-processed foods were half as likely to have ideal cardiovascular health.
A study in Denmark found that citizen responders can arrive before emergency medical services in 40% of residential cardiac arrests and perform defibrillation in nearly 50% of cases. This preliminary research suggests citizen responder programs have the potential to increase bystander defibrillation, leading to improved survival rates.