Researchers used EBCT to screen coronary arteries for calcium deposits in former Kawasaki patients. Four out of 18 participants showed positive results, indicating moderate to high risk of coronary artery disease. The study suggests that EBCT can be an effective non-invasive screening method for detecting artery disease in these patients.
Researchers found that snow shoveling increased tPA antigen levels and decreased PAI-1 activity in a way that didn't occur during automated snow removal or maximal treadmill exercise. Young, healthy individuals showed protective responses to moderate exercise that prevented heart attacks.
Research studied deaths of 508 patients with terminal heart failure, finding that men were most likely to die near dawn, while women were at highest risk in the early morning. The study suggests hormonal patterns and daily biological ebb and flow may contribute to these findings.
Researchers find that heparin and compression stockings can effectively prevent deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) in people at high risk for clots, particularly those with a history of heart disease or stroke. Compression stockings were found to significantly reduce DVT incidence by 18.75 times compared to controls.
Aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition that can occur in people who have used crack cocaine, particularly those with high blood pressure or Marfan syndrome. Researchers found that 29% of cocaine users died from the condition compared to 17% of non-users.
Researchers have successfully treated five patients with severe chest pain with injections of their own bone marrow cells, showing increased blood flow in treated areas. The treatment appears safe and relatively inexpensive with no reported side effects.
Men with stable chronic heart failure experienced improved sexual activity and quality of life after regular cycling. The study found significant improvements in endothelial function, measured through brachial artery dilation and oxygen uptake, resulting from the exercise routine.
Researchers found that EECP therapy increases levels of angiogenic factors, promoting the development of collateral vessels and improving blood flow. The study suggests EECP may be an alternative to invasive procedures for treating some Americans with angina.
Researchers found that moderate alcohol consumption can lower arterial stiffness in people over 50, with the greatest benefit seen at older ages. The study, which examined data from 563 volunteers between 20 and 90 years old, suggests that a daily drink may be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that chest blows from objects such as baseballs or swings can lead to commotio cordis, a type of sudden cardiac death. The study identified 124 cases, with most victims being male children under 12 years old, and emphasized the importance of public education and awareness in preventing these incidents.
A study found that children from high-risk families have lower levels of enzymes that help dispose of free radicals, making them more susceptible to cellular damage. Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables can help build up these enzymes and prevent free radical damage.
In two studies, VEGF gene therapy significantly reduced angina episodes and improved exercise tolerance in patients with end-stage coronary heart disease. The treatment has shown impressive clinical results, with most patients experiencing continued improvement in daily life after treatment.
A study found that young athletes are more prone to sudden death due to cardiovascular diseases, with a higher risk of 2.5 times compared to non-athletes. Enhanced pre-participation screening methods, including electrocardiograms, are recommended to identify affected athletes.
Researchers analyzed 20 years of US vital statistics data to find racial disparities in heart disease mortality rates. The study confirmed that African Americans experienced a slower decline in CHD death rates, highlighting the need for targeted prevention programs.
Researchers report significant advancements in sutureless vascular graft surgery, reducing operating time by up to 90%. The new techniques enable quicker connections of blood vessels and minimize damage to the heart, paving the way for minimally invasive surgery on the beating heart.
A study of over 3,000 senior citizens found that some drinking among the elderly may fight age-related brain injuries like silent strokes and white matter disease, but any level of alcohol intake may shrink brain matter. Light drinkers had fewer white matter lesions than abstainers or heavy drinkers.
Researchers used low doses of dextroamphetamine in a four-year study of 21 stroke survivors with aphasia. The drug group made significant gains in communication abilities, surpassing 15-point clinically significant changes in 83% of participants.
Researchers found that new collateral blood flow pathways were created in the brain after a minor stroke. This suggests that the brain can recover some blood flow after a small stroke, potentially reducing damage and improving long-term recovery.
A study found that pacemakers and ICDs can be infected with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia without obvious signs, highlighting the need for accurate documentation and removal of devices to prevent serious illness and death. The researchers concluded that removing cardiac devices is essential for patients who develop staph infection.
Researchers warn that angiogenesis therapy could trigger growth in abnormal tissue, increase artery-clogging plaque, and stimulate inflammatory response. Despite these potential complications, the authors remain hopeful that the therapy will ultimately prove effective and safe.
The American Heart Association has recognized four dedicated volunteers for their outstanding work in advancing the association's objectives. Edward Freis, Patricia Mahoney, Michael Moore, and Robert Roberts were honored for their efforts to reduce high blood pressure and promote heart health research.
Dr. Williams has been recognized for his work implementing better medical policy for African-American and Hispanic communities in Watts and the Greater Los Angeles area. He has raised millions of dollars for various organizations, including the King-Drew Sickle Cell Center and Association of Black Cardiologists.
Distinguished leaders Bryant, Robertson, and Warfel were honored for their dedication to the American Heart Association. The organization has grown to include over 22.5 million volunteers and supporters, dedicating $337 million to research support and community programs.
Jan L. Breslow and David A. Ness received the 2001 American Heart Association Gold Heart Award for their leadership in research, administration, and volunteer work. The award recognizes their significant contributions to advancing heart health through their work with the association.
Researchers found that eating and drinking before flying increases cardiac output and improves oxygen levels in the brain and organs. This can reduce the risk of fainting spells and heart attacks by up to 21%.
The Chicago HeartSave Program successfully reduced sudden cardiac deaths at O'Hare and Midway Airports by placing AEDs one minute apart, making them easy to spot. The devices helped minimize critical response times to emergency care and improved survival rates for victims of ventricular fibrillation.
A study published by the American Heart Association suggests that laughing often and exuberantly can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Researchers compared humor responses in 150 heart patients to 150 healthy controls, finding that heart patients were 40% less likely to laugh in various situations.
A new non-invasive skin test can measure cholesterol levels in just three minutes, potentially offering a simple way to assess risk of heart disease. The test found that those with the highest skin cholesterol levels also had the greatest number of diseased arteries.
Researchers have found that transmyocardial revascularization (TMR) laser surgery can provide long-term relief from angina by creating channels for blood flow through the heart. The procedure has been shown to reduce chest pain in 60% of patients for at least five years, with some experiencing relief for up to eight years after treatment.
A study by American Heart Association finds that consuming heavy meals may trigger heart attacks, increasing risk by about four times within two hours. The research suggests that eating a large meal can lead to temporary rises in blood pressure and heart rate, potentially causing heart attacks or strokes.
A new study found that premenopausal women are more vulnerable to sudden, serious heart disease during their menstrual cycle when estrogen levels are at their lowest. The research also identified other health risks that worsen the odds for heart disease in young women.
Individuals undergoing non-emergency angioplasty in facilities without surgical backup are twice as likely to die and 20% more likely to require bypass surgery. The study suggests that the procedure can be safely performed with a backup team for emergency cases, but not for non-emergency procedures.
A study of nearly three million fitness club members found a small but definite increase in risk of exercise-related fatal heart attacks or strokes among sporadic exercisers. Regular exercise is recommended to lower this risk, particularly for those with cardiovascular disease.
Two studies found that women with the four risk factors had five times the risk of death as men, and children with metabolic syndrome risk factors were more likely to be obese. Researchers emphasize the need to prevent obesity in young people to reverse alarming trends in heart disease.
A German research team found that people who inherit two copies of the GNB3 825T allele gene have a high risk of obesity if they do not engage in regular physical activity. Exercising for two hours or more a week appears to block the genetic tendency, highlighting the importance of lifestyle in preventing obesity-related diseases.
Researchers used MRI to show that statin drugs remove fat from atherosclerotic lesions, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Statins may detect patients at risk for cardiovascular disease, identify treatment options, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
A study found that 28% of fitness clubs in Ohio failed to conduct pre-entry screenings for cardiovascular problems, while 17% reported heart attacks or sudden deaths. Gyms must implement recommended screening practices and emergency response plans to ensure member safety.
Researchers at UCLA Medical Center found that implementing a dual list for organs increases the supply of usable donor hearts for older adults. The program allows patients over 65 to receive transplants from donor hearts with minor repair needs, previously deemed unsuitable for younger patients. This approach improves patient survival ...
A follow-up study of the VEGF in Ischemia for Vascular Angiogenesis (VIVA) trial found that gene therapy did not increase the risk of cancer or adverse events in patients with severe angina. The results showed a lower rate of adverse events in patients receiving the high-dose VEGF, and encouraging reductions in chest pain after one year.
Researchers have successfully created viable new heart muscle cells using marrow stromal cells from an animal's own bone marrow. The goal is to replace dead heart muscle cells with new ones, potentially offering a treatment for life-threatening heart failure.
A study by the American Heart Association found that individuals with heart attacks are more likely to have periodontal disease, a type of gum tissue inflammation. The researchers believe that high blood levels of C-reactive protein may be linked between the two conditions.
A Mediterranean-style diet rich in olive oil, fruit, and fish was associated with a lower risk of death after a heart attack. The study found that participants who consumed more fresh fruits and vegetables had a reduced risk of dying within 42 months after their heart attack.
A recent study suggests that trans fatty acids, commonly found in baked goods and fried foods, may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. The researchers found that diets high in trans fats led to higher triglyceride levels and lower HDL cholesterol.
The American Heart Association has revised its cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines, eliminating the need for a pulse check by bystanders before starting chest compressions. The new guidelines instead recommend looking for signs of circulation such as breathing, movement, and response to stimulation.
Researchers found that certain genes in blood vessels produce a protective protein called HO-1, which inhibits atherosclerosis. This discovery provides new leads for treating and preventing heart disease by targeting these genetic pathways.
The proposed food label changes could lead to a reduction in heart disease deaths, with estimated annual savings of $25 billion to $59 billion in healthcare costs. Manufacturers are expected to reformulate products in response to consumer demand for lower trans fat foods.
Researchers found that men who ate two servings of high-fiber cereal per day made spontaneous changes to their diets, reducing fat intake and increasing fiber consumption. The study suggests that high-fiber cereal can be an easy way for Americans to improve their diet and reduce their risk of heart disease.
A Harvard study finds that regular vigorous exercise lowers leptin levels in both normal-weight and overweight men, which may reduce the risk of heart disease. Men who were more physically active had lower leptin levels, regardless of their weight or diet.
A new test using a urine sample and written survey can help doctors identify adolescents who smoke cigarettes, allowing for early intervention. The test also identifies 'experimenters' - young people who smoke occasionally but haven't committed to the habit full-time.
Researchers found that children whose parents scored high on dietary restraint or disinhibition had greater increases in body fat over time. Parents' impulsive eating habits also had a strong effect on their child's body fat level.