The 11th World Stroke Congress highlights the high impact of stroke in low- and middle-income countries, with over 80% of global stroke burden concentrated in these regions. Experts discuss prevention and treatment strategies to reduce premature mortality from stroke by one-third by 2030.
A study of US hospital statistics from 2010-14 found a rise in stroke incidence among marijuana users, with rates increasing from 1.3% to 1.5%. Young stroke survivors also face long-term risks, with nearly 3 times the risk of adverse events compared to older patients.
A Canadian-led international study found that every hour of delay in stroke treatment results in poorer outcomes, diminished quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. The study concludes that delays within the first six hours lead to significant losses in full quality of life and health-adjusted life years.
The 11th World Stroke Congress brought together leading international experts to discuss various aspects of stroke care. A Canadian study found that while access to stroke rehabilitation improved, provincial and regional differences persist, with bed capacity hindering prompt access. Another study analyzed gender differences in accessi...
Over 90% of online ads targeting children are unhealthy products, with kids viewing 25 million ads annually on their favorite websites. This excessive marketing puts children at risk for various health problems, including obesity and heart disease.
A recent study highlights the dangers of women delaying medical attention for heart symptoms, citing a higher likelihood of severe or advanced stage treatment options being limited. Women often attribute symptoms to other possibilities and exhibit an optimistic bias, waiting longer to seek care than men.
A recent study found that robotically assisted coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery is a safe and feasible alternative to traditional bypass surgery, reducing complications and hospital stays. The procedure uses robotic precision to perform precise incisions with less blood loss and cosmetic scarring.
Patients who received newly donated blood had significantly fewer post-operative complications than those who received older blood, according to a Canadian study. The study found that patients given only new blood fared better in terms of re-operation for bleeding, ventilation duration, infection, renal failure, and death.
A study of over 3,000 patients found that non-Caucasian groups have higher rates of cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. However, South Asians, East Asians, and Blacks reported lower awareness of these risks compared to Caucasians.
A study presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress found that people with mental health disorders are twice as likely to develop heart disease or stroke. The study also showed that psychiatric medications and unhealthy behaviors contribute to this increased risk.
A new study shows that stroke patients remain at high risk for repeat strokes and other serious events even after the initial 90-day danger period. After five years, their risk is double that of individuals without a previous stroke or TIA, highlighting the need for longer follow-up and preventive interventions.
A new model for stroke care is being implemented in rural Alberta, allowing smaller hospitals to mimic the type of care typically found in larger centres. The SUEC model incorporates early supported discharge and community rehabilitation, resulting in decreased length of stay and increased patient satisfaction.
A new study found that patients who experience a stroke in the hospital wait longer for treatment and are less likely to receive clot-busting drugs compared to those who have a stroke outside of the hospital. This delay can lead to longer hospital stays, disability, and worse outcomes.
A new patient management system at Kelowna General Hospital has reduced stroke bed days by over 25% and saved the hospital up to $800,000 per year. The program, called Proprietary Physician, involves coordinating care between doctors, nurses, and family members.
A new study reveals that approximately 40% of stroke patients would benefit from rehabilitation, but only 16% receive it. The rates vary widely by province and hospital, with some patients not needing or getting the right amount of services. This lack of access has huge implications for their quality of life and healthcare utilization.
A study at a Hamilton subsidized housing complex found that paramedics' regular visits resulted in a 32% reduction in EMS calls. The program, which included healthy lifestyle reviews and risk assessments, was well-attended by residents, with many referrals made to community resources.
A new study found that overnight dialysis boosts kidney health and reduces the risk of heart disease by improving artery function. This treatment method allows for more frequent and longer dialysis sessions at home, leading to reduced toxin buildup in the blood.
A study found that high blood pressure during pregnancy may increase a woman's lifetime risk of stroke by as much as 40 percent. Women with pre-eclampsia, a more severe form of high blood pressure, are at even higher risk. Monitoring blood pressure after pregnancy is crucial to avoid longer-term risks.
A study found that combining high-intensity interval training with Mediterranean diet counselling significantly improves body fat mass, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight loss in obese individuals. The intervention also resulted in improved aerobic fitness, reduced waist circumference, and better control of blood sugar levels.
A 20-year study found that LIS patients can achieve remarkable communication and mobility independence with rehabilitation and technology, including head-tracking and wheelchair control. Patients can even write, communicate, and play computer games with minimal functions.
A study by Western University found that cardiac rehabilitation programs lead to a 31% reduction in hospital readmission rates and a 26% drop in cardiovascular mortality. The program's cost savings exceed $400,000 over two years, making it a financially viable option.
A study found that mothers with high LDL cholesterol before pregnancy have a 5-fold increase in their children's risk of developing high cholesterol as adults. This risk factor may be influenced by epigenetic changes, highlighting the importance of managing cholesterol levels throughout life.
A study found that stroke patients who participated in cardiac rehabilitation programs for six months showed significant improvements in walking function, with average gains of 21% in limb strength, 19% in walking speed, and 16% in walking distance. Early referral to the program was crucial for better results.
A study by the Heart and Stroke Foundation found that consuming just one high-fat breakfast sandwich can decrease blood vessel function by 15-20% in healthy university students. This temporary effect highlights the potential for a single high-fat meal to have long-term consequences on heart health.
A new study published in the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress found that exercising in water has the same aerobic benefits as exercising on land, but with less strain on joints. This promising alternative can be especially beneficial for people who struggle to exercise on land due to weight or mobility issues.
A study by Dr. Paul Dorian found that the risk of cardiac arrest depends on where you live, with neighborhoods having higher rates experiencing three to five times more cases than those with lower rates. Wealth, education, and social inclusion are important factors in determining cardiac arrest risk, but only explain part of the puzzle.
The new guidelines aim to provide a framework for early recognition and treatment of pediatric heart failure, which often goes unrecognized until it's too late. The guidelines recommend specialized care, including echocardiography by a pediatric specialist, and evidence-based treatments such as diuretics and inotropic drugs.
A study found 174 cases of sudden cardiac death in Ontario between ages 2-40, with heart disease present in 72% of cases. The majority of events occurred at home, not during sports or exercise. Researchers advocate for screening and education to detect warning signs like fainting.
Researchers discovered that babies born to mothers who lost weight after bariatric surgery have fewer cardiovascular risk factors than siblings born before the surgery. The metabolic changes and weight loss post-surgery positively affect inflammatory disease-related genes in offspring.
A four-month high-intensity interval training program improved cognitive functions in previously sedentary adults. The exercise increased blood flow to the brain, leading to sharper thinking, recall, and decision-making abilities.
Researchers from Nova Scotia found that peer mentoring programs significantly increase school day physical activity levels among elementary students. The Heart Healthy Kids Lunch program, which included games led by trained peer mentors, resulted in an average increase of over 1,000 steps per day.
Researchers found that prolonged QRS duration and PR/QT intervals are strong indicators of risk. These electrical wave measures can help doctors identify patients at higher risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, including death.
The influenza vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiac events such as strokes, heart attacks, and cardiac deaths by approximately 50 percent. A similar trend was seen for reducing death from any cause, with a reduction of around 40 percent.
A new study reveals that resistin, secreted by fat tissue, increases 'bad' cholesterol levels and accelerates artery plaque buildup. The discovery could lead to revolutionary new therapeutic drugs targeting resistin, improving statin effectiveness.
The Alberta Provincial Stroke Strategy has led to increased brain scans and targeted patient care for stroke patients. Researchers found a 18% increase in swallowing screen usage and a 27% rise in designated stroke unit care, resulting in fewer health complications.
Widespread telestroke adoption could provide optimal care to more Canadians, but current usage is limited. Research shows improved outcomes and cost savings in provinces like Alberta, where telestroke ensured rural patients received tPA at the same rate as those treated in larger centres.
Two Calgary-based support programs are helping stroke patients by providing valuable resources and peer-to-peer connections. The In-Patient Support Program in Recovery from Stroke (I.N.S.P.I.R.E.S) connects hospital patients with peers who have experienced a similar recovery process. Meanwhile, the Patient and Family Passport for Strok...
A Canadian study found that smoking after a stroke significantly affects problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Patients who quit smoking achieved the same scores as lifetime non-smokers, emphasizing the importance of quitting for cognitive health.
New guidelines urge better screening and treatment of sleep apnea to prevent stroke, with at least 60% of stroke patients experiencing the condition. Untreated sleep apnea increases second stroke risks and complicates rehabilitation outcomes.
Two outstanding studies won top honors at the Canadian Stroke Congress, one discovering brain recovery abilities after stroke and another developing a diagnostic tool predicting clinical outcomes. The studies aim to improve treatment decisions and patient care.
A home delivery of stroke rehabilitation program has resulted in improved cognition, communication, and physical function for people with stroke. The program has virtually eliminated waiting lists and saved approximately $1 million annually.
A study presented at the Canadian Stroke Congress reveals that rehabilitation robots can detect post-stroke impairments more accurately than traditional methods. The robots improve detection of limb position, speed, and movement direction, enabling personalized therapy and treatment plans to remap the brain and restore function.
The province's stroke strategy has led to better treatment and reduced long-term care facility admissions for stroke patients in rural Nova Scotia. Data from 2004-2011 shows improvements in stroke unit treatment, swallowing tests, and discharge rates.
A study found that 40% of stroke patients were treated for depression without proper diagnosis. Researchers say clinicians are over-treating some patients and overlooking others due to lack of access to mental health care professionals. Screening for depression after all strokes could improve treatment outcomes.
A high-calorie, high-sugar, high-sodium diet has been shown to induce symptoms of metabolic syndrome in rats after just two months, increasing the risk of stroke and related health issues. The study highlights the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise in preventing these conditions.
A survey in southern Ontario found that only 2% of respondents could correctly identify aphasia as a communication disorder affecting speaking, reading, writing and understanding. This highlights the need for increased awareness and access to speech-language therapy and supportive programs for people living with chronic aphasia.
Emergency medicine residency programs in Canada are underprepared to handle stroke cases, with limited lecture time and on-the-job training devoted to the topic. Researchers found that only two programs required on-the-job training in stroke neurology.
The Calgary Stroke Program and Toronto Rehabilitation Institute have achieved Distinction status for their exceptional stroke care, demonstrating a commitment to best practices, leadership, and innovation. The awards recognize the organizations' rigorous accreditation process and dedication to improving patient outcomes.
Researchers found significant improvements in overall brain function, with most improvement in attention, concentration, planning and organizing. Muscular strength and walking ability also increased.
A new drug called apixaban has shown to be effective in treating atrial fibrillation, reducing the risk of stroke by 21% and major bleeding by 31%. The study found that apixaban is better than warfarin in preventing strokes and was associated with less bleeding.