A quality improvement program helped reduce 'bad cholesterol' levels among military veterans, according to a preliminary presentation at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2025. The study found improvements in patient adherence and LDL-cholesterol goal attainment among participating veterans.
A study found that Black adults living in food deserts who received home-delivered groceries and dietary guidance based on the DASH eating plan had a greater reduction in blood pressure levels compared to those given a stipend to purchase groceries. The program improved cardiovascular and metabolic health outcomes, but limitations incl...
Researchers found that prasugrel may offer an advantage over ticagrelor for individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and complex coronary disease. This is because the two medications are not interchangeable, and treatment with prasugrel may provide better benefits in preventing blood clots and adverse cardiac events.
A six-month family-based program in rural China reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 10 mm Hg compared to non-participants. Participants implemented a low-sodium diet, exercised regularly and monitored their blood pressure using digital devices.
A new study found that a polypill combining medications for heart failure improved heart function, symptoms, and quality of life. Adults with reduced ejection fraction heart failure who took the combined medication had fewer hospitalizations and greater medication adherence than those taking individual pills.
A new study found that adding a PCSK9 inhibitor to a high-intensity cholesterol-lowering regimen reduced the risk of a first major cardiovascular event among adults with ASCVD or diabetes. The study suggests long-term lowering with PCSK9 inhibitors can improve cardiovascular morbidity and mortality over time.
A new medication called DR10624 has shown promising results in reducing high triglyceride levels by over 60% in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. The treatment also improved cholesterol and liver health, offering a potential alternative for managing this condition.
A daily oral medication has been shown to lower bad cholesterol levels in people with a previous heart attack or stroke, or those at high risk for one. The study found that participants taking the medication had significant reductions in LDL-C levels and achieved guideline-recommended targets.
Two health tech companies, PolyVascular and Brainomix, won the American Heart Association's Health Tech Competition for their innovative solutions to improve cardiovascular disease and stroke patient outcomes. PolyVascular developed a minimally invasive valve to help children with congenital heart disease, while Brainomix created AI so...
A new study suggests that catheter ablation can reduce the risk of stroke in people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) and may even allow them to stop taking blood thinners. The study found that long-term oral anticoagulation is not necessary after successful ablation in patients with moderate to high stroke risk.
Researchers found that an earlier blood transfusion may reduce the risk of heart failure and irregular heartbeat in adults with heart disease. The study suggests that waiting until hemoglobin levels are low before transfusing blood may not be the best strategy for high-risk patients.
Researchers found that people with high blood pressure who took a daily chance to win cash were more likely to take their medication consistently. However, they did not achieve significantly better blood pressure reductions compared to those without financial incentives. The study suggests that improving long-term behavior changes is c...
A new study found that using a simplified clot-preventing medication regimen for one month after stent placement in adults with atrial fibrillation is equally safe and effective as a standard year-long treatment regimen. This approach may help reduce bleeding risk associated with the medications while maintaining stroke, heart attack, ...
Researchers found that taking metformin in addition to standard care after catheter ablation reduced episodes of atrial fibrillation in people with obesity. The study suggests that lifestyle and risk factor modification efforts can be aided by metformin, and future studies are needed to confirm these findings.
In a Phase 1 clinical trial, CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing therapy CTX310 reduced LDL cholesterol and triglycerides by nearly 50% on average, achieving large reductions in both for the first time. The treatment has shown promise as a one-and-done approach to transform care for patients with lifelong lipid disorders.
A recent study found that adults with heart disease who took vitamin D doses tailored to their individual needs reduced their risk of another heart attack by more than half. The study also showed that supplementation appeared beneficial for preventing heart attack specifically.
Adults with atrial fibrillation who drank a daily cup of coffee were 39% less likely to have an irregular heart rhythm episode compared to those who avoided all caffeinated products. The preliminary study results suggest that caffeinated coffee may not be responsible for raising the risk of AFib and may even reduce it.
A new study found that standard medical care, including blood thinners, is the better choice for older people with irregular heart rhythms who are at high risk of stroke and bleeding. The catheter-based procedure was non-inferior to medical therapy in reducing stroke risk but caused more bleeding in higher-risk patients.
The American Heart Association brought hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and Hands-Only CPR awareness to a historic college football game, aiming to empower young athletes and their families with critical knowledge. The organization aims to double cardiac arrest survival rates by 2030 through its Nation of Lifesavers movement.
The American Heart Association is launching an initiative to boost clinical trial participation and speed diagnosis of aortic stenosis, a common but underdiagnosed heart valve condition. The effort aims to engage at least 40 hospitals and connect more individuals with research opportunities.
The American Heart Association has named five finalists in its Health Tech Competition to present innovative solutions for cardiovascular conditions. The selected companies will showcase their technologies during the 2025 Scientific Sessions, where a panel of expert judges will evaluate their presentations.
The American Heart Association's inaugural CarePlan Challenge recognizes innovators who create digital solutions that transform preventive care, improve disease management and enhance patient engagement. The selected solutions showcase integration of the Association's science-based CarePlans and other digital tools.
Researchers have found that atrial electromechanical dissociation (AEMD) can predict stroke risk in people with transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy, even when the heart rhythm appears normal. A non-invasive assessment tool may help identify those at increased risk and guide earlier conversations about preventive strategies.
A study found that following steps to improve cardiovascular health can reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia among people with Type 2 diabetes. Maintaining optimal cardiovascular health may protect brain health even for individuals with a high genetic risk for dementia.
A study found that long-term use of melatonin supplements may increase the risk of heart failure, hospitalization, and death in adults with chronic insomnia. The research analyzed data from a large international database and found consistent and significant increases in serious health outcomes, even after balancing for other risk factors.
Researchers found that combining three biomarkers – lipoprotein(a), remnant cholesterol, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein – can reveal a nearly three-fold increase in heart attack risk. This combination approach may aid health care professionals in identifying individuals with high-risk profiles earlier.
A study found a nearly linear relationship between nighttime light exposure and an increased risk of heart disease. The research suggests that reducing exposure to excessive artificial light at night can counteract the effects and may be a public health concern.
A preliminary study found that low-dose aspirin use was associated with a lower risk of major cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes, among adults with Type 2 diabetes. The analysis of 11,500 individuals over 10 years showed that consistent aspirin use led to significant reductions in cardiovascular event rates.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm that accurately diagnosed multiple structural heart diseases from single-lead ECG sensors on smartwatches. The algorithm was trained on over 266,000 12-lead ECG recordings and prospectively validated in a real-world setting.
A preliminary study reviewed data for over 10,000 children and found that CPR initiated within five minutes of cardiac arrest improved their chances of survival. The time window for CPR in children is shorter than in adults, highlighting the critical importance of immediate action.
A new study found that combining GLP-1 receptor agonist medications with healthy lifestyle habits significantly reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes. The research suggests that adopting multiple healthy behaviors can lower cardiovascular risk even further.
The American Heart Association is launching a three-year quality improvement initiative to address gaps in pulmonary embolism (PE) care. The initiative aims to advance best practices for PE diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care by convening diverse care teams and sharing data, insights, and experiences.
The American Heart Association's Hearts on the Court Collective aims to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease in women through public service announcements and education. Led by LSU women's basketball coach Kim Mulkey, the collective is committed to empowering fans and student athletes to take charge of their cardiovascular health.
Research found acute and chronic viral infections increase risk of heart attacks and strokes, while long-term risks persist for HIV, hepatitis C, and herpes zoster. Vaccination measures, including flu shots, can reduce cardiovascular disease risk by 34%.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement highlights the importance of circadian health in preventing year-round cardiometabolic disease. Disruptions to our body's internal clock may increase the risk of various health conditions, making it essential to align daily behaviors with our natural rhythms.
The American Heart Association launches a new certification program to equip healthcare providers with digital tools to manage chronic conditions remotely. The certification aims to standardize training and validate expertise in delivering care in technology-enabled clinical settings, promoting better patient engagement and outcomes.
The American Heart Association and American Academy of Pediatrics have published updated guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care for newborns and pediatric populations. The new guidelines provide specific recommendations that reflect the unique needs of children, emphasizing the importance of trai...
Two researchers will receive the inaugural Jack Sarver Prizes for their work on preventing maternal mortality in Nigeria and identifying a potential therapeutic target for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and atherosclerosis. The awards recognize Dr. Zainab Mahmoud's study on aspirin prophylaxis for preeclampsia...
The American Heart Association has published updated CPR guidelines that expand recommendations for managing choking and suspected opioid overdose. The guidelines also provide new guidance on treating newborns, with delayed umbilical cord clamping shown to improve blood health and iron levels.
Mike Leach, the mastermind of the air raid offense, will be recognized posthumously for his exceptional contributions to college football. The American Heart Association's Paul “Bear” Bryant Heart of a Champion Award honors Leach's larger-than-life impact on the game and communities he touched.
The American Heart Association found that nearly 9 in 10 US adults haven't heard of CKM syndrome, a condition affecting heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and obesity. The association is providing resources to help people understand the connection between heart, kidney, and metabolic health.
The American Heart Association has launched a new grant program to equip 40 high school and college Heart Clubs with CPR training and resources. This initiative aims to double survival rates from cardiac arrest by 2030 and empower students and educators to learn lifesaving skills.
The American Heart Association and NFL team up to boost CPR readiness, with 30 NFL player ambassadors promoting the lifesaving skill. Millions of people now understand the critical importance of being prepared for sudden cardiac arrest.
The American Heart Association has released its 2025 Coach of the Year Award watch list, featuring 28 college football coaches. The award, presented annually, recognizes coaching excellence that promotes grit, integrity, and a winning approach to both on-field performance and off-field life.
A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association details differences in cardiac rehabilitation access, participation, and outcomes for women compared to men. The statement suggests evidence-based strategies to increase referral and completion rates for cardiac rehab programs among women with cardiovascular disease.
Phillip Fulmer, legendary University of Tennessee football coach, is the recipient of the American Heart Association’s 2026 Paul “Bear” Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award. The honor recognizes his outstanding career achievements and contributions to the sport.
The American Heart Association's Periodic Table of Food Initiative data visualization challenge aims to translate complex biomolecular information into actionable insights. Participants will create compelling visualizations that reflect nutritional quality, molecular diversity, sustainability impact, or cultural relevance.
Dr. Amit Khera, a leading expert in preventive cardiology, will receive the 2025 Chairman’s Award for his groundbreaking clinical studies and contributions to the field of cardiovascular risk assessment. He is recognized for his tireless efforts to strengthen the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions.
Dr. Emelia Benjamin will receive the award for her sustained record of excellence in teaching and mentoring early- and mid-career clinicians and researchers. Her research focuses on atrial fibrillation, mobile health, inflammation, and chronic pain.
A new study found that cardiovascular-related complications during pregnancy affect approximately 15% of pregnancies, with increases seen across all age groups. The rise in health risk factors before and during pregnancy drives these complications, emphasizing the importance of early identification and prevention strategies.