A heart-healthy Mediterranean diet helped men at high risk for heart disease reduce their bad cholesterol levels by 9%, regardless of whether they lost weight. This finding suggests that the Mediterranean-style diet may be recommended for effective management of metabolic syndrome and related cardiovascular risks.
By 2030, heart failure costs are projected to exceed $70 billion, with 8 million people affected, up from 5 million in 2012. Improved prevention and treatment strategies are needed to address this growing burden.
A cup of beetroot juice a day reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure by about 10 mm Hg in participants. Increasing dietary nitrate intake through vegetables like beets may be an accessible way to manage blood pressure, researchers suggest.
A new study finds that walking briskly can lower the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes as much as running can. Researchers analyzed data from over 33,000 runners and 15,000 walkers to find similar reductions in risk for these conditions.
Researchers found chronic pain to be a common complication of ischemic strokes, associated with greater decline in physical and cognitive function. Significant risk factors for post-stroke pain include increased severity of stroke, female gender, and vascular disease.
New research found that U.S. adolescents with poor health behaviors and unfavorable cardiovascular risk factors are at increased risk of developing heart disease in adulthood. The study analyzed data from over 4,700 adolescents aged 12-19 and found that nearly 80% had a poor diet, while less than 50% met the recommended levels for phys...
A study found that each seven-gram increase in total daily fiber intake was associated with a 7 percent decrease in first-time stroke risk. Increasing fiber intake can help reduce risk factors for stroke, including high blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol levels.
A recent study found that stroke patients treated at certified stroke centers are three times more likely to receive clot-busting medication. The research examined hospital discharge data on over 323,000 ischemic stroke patients and found significant improvements in tPA administration at certified primary stroke centers.
A study presented at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology and Prevention/Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism 2013 Scientific Sessions found that physically active healthcare providers were significantly more likely to counsel their patients on incorporating daily physical activity into their lives. The findings suggest...
According to the study, nearly 75% of commercial pre-packaged meals and savory snacks for toddlers are high in sodium. The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium consumption to less than 1500mg per day. Parents can choose healthier options by reading nutrition labels on baby and toddler foods.
Research analyzed seven studies to determine energy drink impact on heart health. Consuming energy drinks was found to prolong the QT interval, increasing the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Systolic blood pressure also increased significantly in participants.
A study published at the American Heart Association's meeting found that consuming excessive sodium led to an estimated 2.3 million heart-related deaths globally in 2010. This represents a significant burden on public health, with 40% of these deaths occurring among men and 60% among women.
A recent study links sugar-sweetened beverages to 133,000 diabetes deaths and 44,000 cardiovascular disease deaths worldwide. The research highlights the significant impact of sugary drink consumption on obesity and related health issues, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
New research reveals that heart disease patients with anxiety are twice as likely to die from any cause compared to those without anxiety. Those with both anxiety and depression face a tripled risk of death. The study suggests that anxiety may underlie the risk previously attributed solely to depression.
Researchers found that moderate-to-severe depression in heart failure patients increases their risk of death by almost 60% and emergency room visits by 35%. The study's lead author emphasizes the need for tailored treatment programs to manage depression in these patients.
Researchers found that blockages in coronary arteries, as measured by non-invasive CT scans, were significantly higher in patients who experienced a stroke. CAC levels above 400 Hounsfield units increased the risk of stroke three times in those under 65 and at low cardiovascular risk.
Research found that surviving siblings are more likely to experience a heart attack years after their sibling's death. The risk is higher for women, who face a 25% increased likelihood of heart attack within four to six and a half years after bereavement.
Researchers used a 'homing' signal to activate stem cells in heart failure patients, improving symptoms and heart function. The study found that 50% of patients showed positive effects one year after treatment, indicating potential for this therapy to widely treat heart failure patients.
A new study by the American Heart Association found that women's awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death has nearly doubled in the last 15 years. However, disparities persist among minority groups and younger women, who are less likely to discuss their heart health with doctors or take preventive action.
A study suggests that reducing sodium intake by 40% could save 280,000 to 500,000 lives over 10 years. Gradual reductions in sodium consumption are projected to have substantial mortality benefits across the population.
New research in American Heart Association journal Circulation reveals that high blood pressure during pregnancy may signal a higher risk of heart and kidney disease, as well as diabetes. Women who had high blood pressure during pregnancy were found to have a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular diseases later in life.
Research found that a high intake of Southern-style foods, including fried chicken, bacon, and sugary drinks, was associated with a higher risk of stroke. In contrast, those who ate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains had a lower risk of stroke.
A minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove blood clots in brain tissue after hemorrhagic stroke appears safe and effective in improving long-term disability and reducing hospital time. The study found that patients treated with the surgery had less disability, spent less time in the hospital, and were less likely to be in a long...
A new study found that up to 34% of stroke patients who had their life support withdrawn might have achieved an acceptable level of functioning if support had been continued. The study compared the outcomes of 78 patients whose life support was withdrawn with those of similar patients who remained on life support.
A recent study found that nearly 8% of stroke survivors in the US contemplate suicide, with risk factors including depression, age, and socioeconomic status. Regular screening for suicidal ideation is recommended to address this often-overlooked concern.
Researchers tracked 73 subjects with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) to find that about 60% of newborns had visible seizures at the time of stroke, while 43% of older children did. Within two years, 13% of study subjects developed epilepsy, and patients with elevated brain pressure were more likely to experience later seizures.
Researchers found that Tai Chi significantly reduced falls among adult stroke survivors, improving both static and dynamic balance. The study involved 89 participants who practiced either Tai Chi or usual care for 12 weeks, with the Tai Chi group experiencing fewer falls.
Research finds that self-esteem, optimism, and perceived control influence depression in both stroke survivors and their spouse caregivers. High levels of these factors in one partner can lead to lower levels of depression in the other. Interventions targeting both partners may improve patient outcomes.
A study found that traumatic brain injury complications, including cerebral vasospasm and intracranial hypertension, are prevalent among US combat soldiers. Researchers analyzed data from 122 patients with traumatic brain injuries and found that over 40% had high intracranial pressure.
Research found Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have a higher risk of intracerebral hemorrhage before age 45 compared to non-Hispanic whites. The study revealed that Native Hawaiians were 54 years old when they had a hemorrhagic stroke, whereas non-Hispanic whites were 68 years old, highlighting the disparity in vascular health.
A study of 93,600 women aged 25-42 found that consuming three or more servings of blueberries and strawberries weekly reduced heart attack risk by 32% compared to those eating less than once a month. The flavonoids in these berries may help dilate arteries and prevent plaque buildup.
A new study found that directing short bursts of radio waves at nerves surrounding the kidneys lowered blood pressure for at least six months and up to one year. The procedure, called renal denervation, has significant public health implications in treating resistant hypertension.
A new study published in the American Heart Association journal Stroke found that people over 65 with high psychosocial distress are at increased risk of stroke. The study followed 4,120 participants for 10 years and found that those with the most distress had three times the risk of death from stroke.
Women who smoke even light-to-moderate cigarettes are at higher risk of sudden cardiac death, with the risk climbing by 8% for every five years of continued smoking. Quitting can significantly reduce and eliminate this risk over time.
A new study published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation found that a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, grains, and fish can reduce the risk of recurrent heart attacks and strokes by up to 35%.
African Americans who practiced Transcendental Meditation regularly had a 48% lower risk of heart attack, stroke or death compared to those in a health education class. Regular meditation also lowered blood pressure and reduced stress and anger.
Researchers developed an energy-harvesting device that uses piezoelectricity to convert heartbeat-induced vibrations into electricity. The device can generate enough power to continuously operate a pacemaker without the need for battery replacements.
A Japanese study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012 found that family members were least likely to administer CPR after a cardiac arrest, but most likely to receive telephone instructions. Researchers attributed this to cultural and demographic issues in Japan, including a large gender gap.
Comprehensive smoke-free laws resulted in rapid decreases in heart attack hospitalizations (15% reduction), stroke hospitalizations (16% decrease), and respiratory disease hospitalizations (24% drop). The most effective laws covered workplaces, restaurants, and bars, demonstrating the importance of inclusive legislation.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that smoking survivors have a 30% higher risk of poor outcomes compared to non-smokers. Quitting smoking before a stroke also reduces this risk. The study suggests targeting smoking cessation programs for disadvantaged youth who are more likely to smoke.
Researchers applied 'lean' manufacturing principles to streamline stroke care at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, reducing treatment time from 60 minutes to 39 minutes. The streamlined process resulted in a 78% increase in patients receiving clot-busting agent tPA within one hour of arrival.
A new study reveals racial differences in how body mass index affects blood pressure in children, with black children showing a greater impact. Black children's blood pressure was 8% higher than white children's, suggesting targeted prevention strategies may be necessary.
A study of 234 people with high blood pressure found that those with poor sleep quality were twice as likely to have resistant hypertension. Women were more likely to report lower sleep quality than men.
A study by the American Heart Association found that drinking low-calorie cranberry juice for eight weeks significantly lowered blood pressure in healthy adults, from an average of 121/73 mmHg to 118/70 mmHg. The antioxidants in cranberry juice are believed to be responsible for this effect.
A new study found that cooking with a blend of sesame and rice bran oils significantly lowers blood pressure and improves cholesterol levels. The researchers discovered that the oil blend works nearly as well as a commonly prescribed high blood pressure medication, with even more impressive results when used in combination.
A recent study found that consuming at least 2% of daily calories from yogurt may help lower the risk of high blood pressure. Long-term yogurt-eaters had lower systolic blood pressure and were 31% less likely to develop hypertension than those who didn't eat yogurt.
A study by the American Heart Association found that transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and minor strokes can cause significant disability in up to 15% of patients. Thrombolysis treatment may be necessary for these patients, even if symptoms appear mild, to prevent further damage.
Researchers found that nearly 5 percent of pregnant women are prescribed high blood pressure drugs, including some considered unsafe for mothers and babies, according to new research. The study highlights the need for more research on safe and effective antihypertensives during pregnancy.
A new study found that people with blood types A, B, or AB have a higher risk of coronary heart disease compared to those with blood type O. The study's findings suggest that knowing one's blood type can help physicians better understand who is at risk for developing heart disease.
Consuming cocoa flavanol-rich products daily may improve memory and cognition in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Researchers found significant improvements in cognitive scores, insulin resistance, blood pressure, and oxidative stress for those drinking high and intermediate levels of flavanols.