Researchers discovered that angiotensin-receptor blockers can slow the progression of calcific aortic stenosis, reducing mortality risk and lowering healthcare costs. This breakthrough opens up new avenues for treatment and may potentially delay or prevent valve replacement surgery.
A study by the Heart and Stroke Foundation found that women under 55 experience worse outcomes after a heart attack, including more recurrences of chest pain and physical limitations. The research highlights the need for increased awareness of risk factors and symptoms among women to improve their health outcomes.
A new study reveals that young adults with normal weight and BMI can still have atherosclerosis, highlighting the importance of measuring visceral fat. Waist circumference is a simple predictor of increased visceral adiposity and premature atherosclerosis.
New research reveals that spinal cord injuries are associated with a higher risk of developing heart disease, particularly in individuals with autonomic dysfunction. The study suggests that screening the autonomic system may be beneficial in evaluating cardiovascular health in spinal cord patients.
A new long-term study reveals that heart transplantation is a safe and effective therapy, with survival rates improving by over 20% since its introduction in 1980. The study found that younger patients have better outcomes, while age negatively impacts survival rates.
Researchers developed a kit for trainees to practice microvascular anastomosis, improving surgical skills and results. Extra training at home showed significant impact on performance, suggesting deliberate practice is key to becoming proficient in cardiac surgery.
A study by Dr. Joan Tranmer found that female hospital staff working night shifts are at a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and abdominal obesity. The study suggests that age and shift work status are significantly associated with increased risk.
A growing number of Canadians are living with heart failure, with approximately half a million affected. Simple tests and strategies can help reduce costs and improve outcomes for these patients. A new clinical risk score can guide admission vs. discharge decisions, predicting mortality among HF patients who present to the ED.
A study by Heart and Stroke Foundation researcher Dr. Robert Nolan found that e-counselling led to a twofold decrease in blood pressure levels compared to those who didn't participate, improving lifestyle and quality of life.
A study by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada found that cardiac rehab reduces mortality, especially in those with low fitness levels. Patients who take responsibility for their health and make small fitness improvements can live longer.
Dr. Clyde Yancy predicts that people who follow seven simple lifestyle factors can live an additional 40-50 years after age 50, with a 90% chance of living to 90 or 100 without chronic illnesses. Governments are urged to invest in prevention strategies.
A study by the University of Manitoba and the Manitoba Metis Federation found a 25% higher stroke rate among Metis compared to other Manitobans. The research identified a link between Metis-specific health issues, such as smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which increase stroke risk.
A new study found that Telestroke technology provides high-quality care for rural patients, administering stroke drug tPA at the same rate as urban centers. Effective use of Telestroke resulted in a 50% decrease in emergency room transfers and $1 million in health-care savings over four years.
Researchers found that 95% of people aged 65 have brain small vessel disease, while a quarter of healthy seniors have silent strokes. Regular exercise can delay onset of late life dementia, says Dr. Sandra Black.
A study found that smokers are twice as likely to have strokes and almost a decade younger when they do. Quitting smoking reduces stroke risks significantly within 18 months.
A study highlights the importance of screening for depression and vision loss in people who have experienced mild strokes. The study found that nearly a quarter of participants were clinically depressed, while many faced challenges returning to work or driving after their stroke.
A study found that almost 60% of people who have a stroke experience one or more falls afterwards, with most occurring in their own homes. To address this risk, experts recommend proactive measures such as assessments to create fall-proof homes and post-stroke rehabilitation to test balance and learn exercises to prevent falls.
A new Canadian blood pressure education program has shown promising results in reducing stroke risk by up to 40%. The program, launched in 11 primary care sites across Ontario, achieved sustained average blood pressure reductions of 6.4/3.8 mmHg after three years.
Newfoundland researchers have cracked the genetic code of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), a rare genetic condition causing sudden cardiac death. The team developed an implantable cardiodefibrillator program to prevent fatal arrhythmic events, significantly improving survival rates among high-risk individuals.
A landmark study found that a high resting heart rate is associated with a higher risk of death from cardiovascular and all causes, even after adjusting for other risk factors. Patients with heart rates above 78 beats per minute had a 39% increased risk of major vascular events.
A study of Canadian adolescents found that poor sleep patterns, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diets are increasing cardiovascular risk factors. Experts recommend implementing healthy habits at schools to reduce the alarming trend in poor sleep among teens.
Research suggests that patients with high anxiety sensitivity, who are frightened by bodily sensations and symptoms associated with anxiety, may experience improved cardiac outcomes when treated with rhythm control strategy. This approach appears to be important for these patients, particularly those with congestive heart failure.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada unveiled new Canadian Cardiovascular Society guidelines and position statements at the 2010 Canadian Cardiovascular Congress. These updates aim to support clinicians in practicing evidence-based medicine, with a focus on atrial fibrillation management and antiplatelet therapy.
A new study from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada found that marathon runners who are not adequately prepared can experience heart damage due to inadequate aerobic fitness. The study used MRI measurements to determine who is at risk of cardiac injury, highlighting the importance of proper training and cardiovascular testing.
Researchers found that participation in cardiac rehab was associated with decreased risk of emergency room visits and hospitalization, as well as lower mortality rates. A new structured home-based cardiac rehab program may help overcome barriers to attendance, particularly for women and the elderly.
A study found that obese children have stiff blood vessels similar to those of older adults with cardiovascular disease. The aortic stiffness is an early indicator of cardiovascular disease in obese children, suggesting accelerated aging.
A new surgical procedure using Kryptonite superglue has improved the recovery of heart patients after open-chest surgery, accelerating healing and reducing complications. The adhesive allows for new bone growth, enabling patients to breathe deeply without powerful painkillers.
Researchers have discovered a protein called PIM-1 that can serve as an early warning system for pulmonary hypertension, allowing for earlier diagnosis and potentially more effective treatment. Gene therapy has also been shown to reverse the condition by blocking the inappropriate activation of this protein.
The Canadian Cardiovascular Society has released new guidelines for the management of adults with congenital heart disease, cardiovascular risk evaluation tools, and simplified target levels. The guidelines aim to provide evidence-based medicine for clinicians and improve heart health in Canadians.
A recent study by Dr. Ravi Bajaj found that over half of heart patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) do not receive counselling on their ability to drive after angioplasty, putting lives at risk. The study also revealed inconsistent driving restrictions among doctors, highlighting a need for improved education and patient safety.
A study found that adding ezetimibe to atorvastatin significantly boosts attainment of lipid targets in elderly patients, producing superior results than increasing the dose of atorvastatin alone. The combination improved LDL-cholesterol levels and reduced cholesterol absorption from the gut.
A Canadian study reveals that the adoption of Western diets led to an increase in diastolic and systolic blood pressures among Inuit populations, with a significant drop in consumption of traditional nutrient-rich foods. The study emphasizes the importance of reducing sodium intake through dietary changes.
A study found that smoking one cigarette increases arterial stiffness by 25% in 18-30 year olds, making the heart work harder. Young adults aged 20-24 years have the highest smoking rate, with even light smoking causing damage to their arteries.
A study of over 20,000 Canadian grade 9 students found that most already have at least one major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The rates of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity in teens were alarmingly high and increasing over time.
A study by Canadian cardiologists found that patients with herceptin-related heart complications can be taken off the medication and treated for the condition, allowing them to resume cancer treatment unaffected. The research suggests that heart damage from trastuzumab is largely reversible.
Researchers recommend screening people over 40 for PAD due to its association with heart disease and stroke. The study found 17 cases of PAD among 362 volunteers, highlighting the importance of aggressive treatment and prevention strategies.
A study found that three months of vigorous physical activity in older adults with type 2 diabetes improved the elasticity of their arteries, leading to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. The participants showed an impressive drop in arterial stiffness after just three months of exercise.
A study found South Asian Canadians have less access to physical activity opportunities and develop coronary artery disease earlier than white Caucasians. Simple yet effective ways to incorporate physical activity into daily life can help mitigate this risk.
Dr. Shelagh Coutts, an Alberta neurologist, is developing a new brain scanning technique using CT scans and angiograms to rapidly diagnose mini-strokes. The technology has the potential to predict which patients are at risk of having a second stroke.
A large study found that obese patients with established cardiovascular disease are less likely to reach recommended targets for blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Obesity was also associated with poorer control of HDL levels, but not LDL-cholesterol targets.
A new study has found no significant gender differences in rates of chest discomfort or 'typical' symptoms such as arm discomfort, shortness of breath, and sweating. Female patients were more likely to have both classic symptoms of a heart attack and throat, jaw, and neck discomfort.