A sub-analysis of the EMPHASIS-HF trial found eplerenone significantly reduced new onset atrial fibrillation and flutter in patients with class 2 heart failure. The benefits of eplerenone were similar in patients with and without atrial fibrillation at baseline.
Cardiac patients can now receive a reduced radiation dose during diagnostic perfusion imaging, thanks to new image-processing software. The study found that images produced with a half-dose protocol were of similar quality to those obtained with conventional protocols, while reducing the patient's exposure to radiation.
A study on ancient Egyptian mummies reveals that Princess Ahmose-Meryet-Amon had atherosclerosis in two of her three main coronary arteries, which would have required by-pass surgery. The findings contradict the common perception that atherosclerosis is a disease of modern lifestyle.
The European Society of Cardiology recommends a single, co-ordinated European system to oversee the evaluation and approval of medical devices. The current system has been criticized for its lack of rigor in testing standards, unlike the US where trials must show clinical impact.
A study reveals growing disparities in stroke death rates between European countries, with some nations experiencing a significant increase in mortality rates. The research suggests that controlling high blood pressure is crucial to addressing this public health issue.
A large study of over 107,000 people in Denmark found that certain insulin secretagogues (ISs) were associated with a higher risk of death from any cause and heart attacks compared to metformin. Metformin was found to be the most effective treatment for preventing cardiovascular diseases.
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that women are underutilized of guideline-recommended treatments for heart disease compared to men. The disparity is attributed to various factors including age, congestive heart failure, and physician decision-making.
A recent study found that exposure to traffic noise increases the risk of stroke, especially in individuals aged 65 and over. The researchers discovered a significant association between road traffic noise and stroke risk, with an estimated 8% of all stroke cases potentially attributed to traffic noise.
A European study found that consuming at least eight portions of fruit and vegetables daily reduces the risk of death from ischaemic heart disease by 22% compared to those who consume fewer than three portions. The study analyzed data from over 300,000 participants in eight European countries.
A recent study found that taking regular breaks while sitting can lower waist circumference and decrease inflammation. The research analyzed data from over 4,700 people and discovered that those who took more breaks had smaller waists and improved cardio-metabolic function.
A new study finds that even small changes in troponin levels can forecast worsening outcomes in heart failure patients, with accuracy comparable to traditional risk-factor prediction models. The introduction of highly sensitive troponin assays has improved detection and allowed for the identification of high-risk subgroups.
A large European study found that better-educated men and women had nearly half the risk of hospital admission for heart failure than the least well educated. The study, led by Dr. Eva Prescott, also found a socioeconomic gradient in echocardiographic indicators of both systolic and diastolic dysfunction.
A French study found that men's smoking rates have decreased by 15% since the mid-1980s, resulting in a predicted decline of 10-15% in coronary heart disease deaths. In contrast, women's smoking rates have increased, leading to a predicted rise of up to 4.9% in heart disease mortality rates.
The European Society of Cardiology stresses that lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and smoking are major contributors to heart disease. The summit advocates for a harmonized strategy to prevent cardiovascular disease through policies supporting healthy lifestyles.
A large Scottish study has found tricyclic antidepressants increase CVD risk by 35%, while SSRIs show no association. Lifestyle changes can offset medication risks.
A study tracking over 1,000 children for 10 years found that increased BMI in overweight children doubles their blood pressure risk. Even a modest weight loss can lead to significant blood pressure reductions, while small increases can heighten the risk of hypertension.
The Chronic Disease Alliance, a coalition of 10 European health organizations, has been recognized for its efforts to improve the prevention of chronic diseases at the European level. The alliance has produced a policy paper that identifies central causes of chronic diseases and furnishes action proposals on how to combat their spread.
Recent studies suggest that supplemental oxygen therapy may not be beneficial for patients with acute MI who have normal oxygen levels, potentially leading to worse outcomes. Guidelines are needed to address this issue and ensure safe treatment practices.
A recent study analyzing the JUPITER trial found that HDL cholesterol levels are not predictive of residual vascular risk among patients treated with potent statin therapy. This suggests that caution should be displayed when interpreting the results and more data is needed to determine whether raising HDL levels is beneficial.
The European Society of Cardiology has launched a new cookbook featuring heart-friendly recipes created by leading cardiologists. The book aims to demonstrate that a diverse diet can be achieved without compromising on taste, and includes sections discussing heart health topics and alternative ingredients.
A long-running study of over 10,000 civil servants in London found that working overtime was associated with a 60% higher risk of heart-related problems. The study, published in the European Heart Journal, controlled for various risk factors and suggested that chronic stress may be a key mechanism behind this association.
Researchers found that eating dark chocolate daily can lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk by 39% compared to those who eat less. Flavanols in cocoa may be responsible for this effect, improving nitric oxide bioavailability and reducing inflammation.
A study of 25,250 patients in Germany found that only half received correct cholesterol targets, with women being more likely to be incorrectly targeted. The researchers estimate that following guidelines could prevent 50-80 fewer heart attacks and deaths per 1000 patients over 10 years
A study of 187 top sports arenas in Europe found that many do not have automated external defibrillators or medical action plans in place. The European Society of Cardiology calls for urgent action to improve safety for spectators and players, citing a lack of attention to safety procedures as the main issue.
A new report suggests that a comprehensive assessment one week after hospital discharge can identify heart failure patients at highest risk for adverse outcomes. This evaluation includes patient history, review of medications, physical examination, laboratory data, and health status assessments.
A major new study published in the European Heart Journal found that people who are usually happy and content have a lower risk of heart disease than those who tend to be unhappy. The study suggests that increasing positive emotions may help prevent heart disease, but more clinical trials are needed.
A study of elite cross-country skiers reveals a high prevalence of atrial fibrillation, with rates significantly higher than in the general population. The study identified two key risk factors: slow heart rate at rest and large left atrium size, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role.
A large population study found that lower IQ scores were associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease and total mortality, surpassing the risk linked to smoking. The study also identified other risk factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, and low physical activity.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that reducing daily salt intake can prevent up to 120,000 fewer cases of heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks. The European Society of Cardiology calls for EU-wide legislation to restrict salt content in processed foods.
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that cocaine use is a growing public health problem in Europe, with 3.1% of sudden deaths related to the drug. The study revealed that even small amounts of cocaine can be toxic due to individual variations in body mass index, age, and other factors.
Regular coffee consumption was associated with a 7% reduced risk of diabetes, while decaffeinated coffee had a one-third lower risk. Tea consumption also showed a significant protective effect, with a one-fifth lower risk. The study suggests that compounds in these beverages may have direct biological effects.
A large prospective study of over 20,000 Dutch men and women aged 20-65 found that accurately measured BMI and waist circumference can predict the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular disease. The associations between BMI and waist circumference with heart disease were equally strong, explaining half of all fatal and one quarter ...
The use of implantable devices for treating heart failure increased substantially in Europe between 2004-2008, but disparities in device adoption remain. Device therapy, including ICDs and CRT, has gained acceptance as an adjunct to traditional drug treatment, with significant benefits in reducing mortality and morbidity.
The European Society of Cardiology will hold a Joint Scientific Forum on optimal diabetes management in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Experts will explore the link between diabetes and heart disease, and discuss treatment strategies for Asian patients.
A study of 2332 patients with chronic heart failure found that participation in clinical trials was associated with improved survival rates. The study suggests that being prepared to take part in a trial may be a marker for better compliance and acceptance of treatment.
The 'Red Alert for Women's Hearts' conference aims to address the need for gender-specific research in cardiovascular health. Key findings include low representation of women in clinical trials and a lack of data on their specific cardiovascular pathology, leading to incorrect application of male data.
The European Society of Cardiology is addressing the growing need for improved CVD management in Asia through events that promote an integrated approach. The region faces a significant challenge due to the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes, which accounts for up to 50% of deaths related to CVD.
A study found that only one-third of US patients meeting guidelines criteria were treated with aldosterone antagonists, compared to 48% in the Euro Heart Failure survey. European clinicians have greater leeway and often push new indications in their practice, leading to a more liberal approach.
A large prospective population study found no difference in heart failure risk between fish eaters and non-eaters. However, a beneficial effect was observed in diabetic subjects with high EPA + DHA intake.
Research highlights striking differences in national prevention policies and cardiovascular mortality rates across EU countries, with Hungary and Greece showing highest rates. The study also found noticeable disparities in risk factor prevalence and CHD prevention policies among the 16 participating countries.
The MADIT-CRT study found that CRT-D therapy reduces the risk of heart failure or death by 34% compared to ICD-only therapy, with benefits seen across various patient sub-groups. This results validate a new indication for CRT-D therapy in preventing heart failure in at-risk patients.
Effective reperfusion therapy in AMI patients can cut individual risk of dying by half and save millions of European lives. Modern catheter-based reperfusion strategies are more effective than fibrinolytic agents, reducing infarct-related mortality by up to 37%.
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a leading cause of death in the Western world, with prevalence expected to rise in developing countries. Primary PCI can open more vessels than thrombolytic therapy, saving more lives but requiring specialized facilities and collaboration.
A study found that 1 in 8 patients thought to have epilepsy or unsure diagnosis actually had a heart rhythm issue causing fainting. Eighty percent of those who underwent pacemaker insertion were symptom-free after 9 months.
The PreSCD II registry found that patients protected by an implantable cardioverter defibrillator after a heart attack showed a non-significant lower mortality rate. In those with severely reduced heart function, mortality was reduced by 47% in patients with ICD implantation one month or more after MI.
A significant decline in heart attack mortality rates has been observed in Europe over the past 25 years, primarily due to organisational changes in the pre-hospital phase. The successful implementation of these measures can lead to a reperfusion rate of over 75% and reduce mortality to below 5%.
The PROTECT trial found that rolofylline had no significant effect on primary or secondary end-points in patients with acute heart failure, including dyspnea improvement and persistent renal impairment. The study did show an increased risk of neurological events in rolofylline-treated patients.
The survey enrolled 2438 patients with a mean age of 68 years, showing characteristic differences between those receiving CRT-P and CRT-D devices. Demographic and economic factors play a significant role in device selection, with younger patients, men, and those with ischaemic aetiology more likely to receive a CRT-D device.
The KYOTO HEART Study found that valsartan significantly reduced the incidence of cardiovascular events, including angina pectoris and stroke/TIA, in Japanese hypertensive patients. The study showed a lower rate of primary endpoints in the valsartan arm compared to non-ARB conventional therapies.
Researchers found that irbesartan reduced the risk of heart failure complications and a combination of stroke and other events by 13-14% in patients with atrial fibrillation. The study also showed significant reductions in hospitalizations for cardiovascular reasons and days spent in hospital.