Cardiac Arrest

Results of major heart study set to save lives, reduce unneeded heart implants

AI models comb patient data to predict cardiac-arrest risk

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival at nighttime

A nighttime response during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is associated with lower odds of sustained return of spontaneous circulation, neurologically favorable survival, and postresuscitation survival. Emergency care factors only account for a portion of the decreased survival rates at night.

University of Cincinnati works with local paramedics to advance sudden cardiac arrest research

A University of Cincinnati study proves the feasibility and scalability of collecting blood from patients in cardiac arrest during treatment. The approach, which involves paramedics delivering samples to a biorepository, showed significant variation among patients and underscores the need for further research.

As syphilis cases rise, study links infection with higher risk of stroke, heart attack and other serious cardiovascular problems

A study from Tulane University found that long-term, untreated syphilis increases the risk of serious cardiovascular issues, including stroke, heart attack, and aortic aneurysm. Adults with syphilis were more likely to develop these problems than similar patients without the infection.

The wearable ring on your finger could help assess your cardiovascular health while you sleep

Researchers developed a method to estimate vascular age from consumer wearables' PPG signals, predicting accurate results with a mean error of six to seven years. The technique uses a deep learning model and may lead to earlier detection of cardiovascular risk and more effective preventive care.

Thousands to be trained in Hands Only CPR at NFL Draft

The American Heart Association and NFL will welcome thousands to train in Hands-Only CPR at the NFL Draft, a lifesaving skill that can double or triple a person's chance of survival. This effort aims to empower fans, families, and communities with a simple yet powerful message: be ready to save a life.

Novel blood marker may help predict cognitive impairment after a cardiac arrest

Researchers found that a novel blood biomarker, neurofilament light chain, is associated with long-term cognitive function in survivors of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. In contrast, neuron-specific enolase levels were not linked to cognitive impairment. Early measurement of neurofilament light chain may help identify patients at high...

CRISPR-based technique unlocks healing power of mitochondria for heart failure therapy

Researchers at Rice University developed a CRISPR-based technique that increases mitochondrial production in heart cells, improving energy levels and pumping contractions. The system successfully boosted mitochondrial function in human cell types, animal models, and adult human heart donor tissue.

AI can predict risk of serious heart disease from mammograms

A study published in the European Heart Journal found that AI analysis of mammograms can predict the risk of serious heart disease in women. Women with mild calcification were 30% more likely to suffer serious cardiovascular disease, while those with severe calcification were two to three times more likely.

Incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest on a postholiday weekday

A nationwide cohort study found a significantly elevated incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests on post-holiday weekdays, particularly among vulnerable populations after consecutive rest days. The study supports enhanced emergency preparedness and targeted public health messaging during holiday periods.

Combining AI with OCT shows potential for detecting lipid-rich plaques in coronary arteries

Researchers developed a new method for extracting spectral information from OCT images and combining it with AI to identify lipid-rich plaques. The approach shows strong classification performance and can highlight suspicious regions throughout the image.

National poll finds gaps in community preparedness for teen cardiac emergencies

A national poll found that nearly half of parents are aware of the risk of sudden cardiac arrest in teens, but only about half know their school has an automated external defibrillator (AED) on site. Parents support CPR and AED training, with four in 10 already trained to use an AED, and nearly nine in 10 willing to receive free training.

Family Heart Foundation teams up with former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck to launch “tackle cholesterol™: Get into the LDL Safe Zone®”

The Family Heart Foundation, led by Matt Hasselbeck, aims to educate Americans about the risks of high LDL cholesterol and its connection to early heart disease. The campaign promotes free at-home screenings and offers support for individuals to protect themselves and their families from cardiovascular disease.

FAU study links ultra-processed foods to greater heart attack, stroke risk

A study by Florida Atlantic University found that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are associated with a 47% higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers analyzed data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found that those consuming high amounts of UPFs had a significant increase in heart attack and stroke ...

Heart damage is common after an operation and often goes unnoticed, but patients who see a cardiologist may be less likely to die or suffer heart disease as a result

Researchers found that patients seen by cardiologists had lower mortality rates and fewer serious heart problems, including heart attack, sudden failure, or irregular heartbeat. The study suggests close teamwork between surgical and heart teams can improve outcomes after major surgery.

New research connects heart attacks to brain, nervous and immune systems

Researchers have uncovered a new understanding of how cardiac events are interconnected with the brain and nervous/immune systems. They found that sensory neurons in the vagus nerve detect injury and transfer signals to dedicated brain structures, leading to activation of the immune system.

Chronic kidney disease poisons patients’ hearts, scientists discover

Researchers identify circulating extracellular vesicles produced in diseased kidneys as the culprit behind toxicity in the heart. The discovery could lead to the development of a blood test to identify patients at high risk for serious heart problems and novel treatments to prevent and treat heart failure.

Human heart regrows muscle cells after heart attack, world-first study shows

Researchers have shown that human hearts can regrow muscle cells after a heart attack, paving the way for new treatments to reverse heart failure. The discovery was made possible by pioneering techniques that use living tissue samples taken from patients during bypass surgery.

What TV gets wrong about CPR—and why it matters for saving lives

A study analyzed 169 US TV episodes that portrayed hands-only CPR since 2008 and found nearly half showed outdated practices. Most cardiac-arrest victims receiving hands-only CPR on-screen were white men, while women and Black and Latino people are less likely to receive the intervention in real life.

TV depictions of Hands-Only CPR are often misleading

A new study in Circulation: Population Health and Outcomes journal found that TV characters were more likely to receive CPR than real-life counterparts. This discrepancy highlights the need for accurate depictions of hands-only CPR on television.

Calcium in breast arteries predicts future cardiovascular disease

A new study found that calcium accumulation in breast arteries and its progression on mammograms can predict future cardiovascular disease. Women with more severe calcification and those whose calcification worsened over time had a higher risk of heart-related events, such as heart attack, stroke, and death.

Blood test reveals prognosis after cardiac arrest

A new blood biomarker, neurofilament light (NFL), has been shown to accurately predict the extent of brain damage after a cardiac arrest. This breakthrough discovery may transform care for patients in intensive care units, allowing for more informed decisions about their treatment.

People with diabetes face higher risk of sudden cardiac death

A large study found that people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of sudden cardiac death, particularly in younger adults. The research also showed that sudden cardiac death contributes to shorter life expectancy for those with diabetes.

Experts call for AED placement on every commercial aircraft to boost in-flight cardiac arrest survival rates from 6% to up to 70%

In-flight cardiac arrest is a rare yet catastrophic event that claims up to 86% of air fatalities. Implementing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) on board could significantly boost survival rates from 6% to up to 70%. The authors recommend standardized CPR protocols training, telemedicine integration, and mandatory AED placement.

Pollution and cardiac arrest: a study by the Politecnico di Milano reveals a direct link between peak air pollution and cardiac risk

Researchers found a strong association between nitrogen dioxide levels and increased risk of cardiac arrest, with a 7% rise for every 10 micrograms per cubic metre increase. The study highlights the importance of considering environmental data in health forecasting systems.

Common gout drug may reduce risk of heart attack and stroke

A Cochrane review found that low-dose colchicine reduced heart attacks and strokes in people with a history of heart disease or stroke. The study involved nearly 23,000 participants and showed that taking colchicine could prevent about two of each heart attack and stroke among those with cardiovascular disease.

Genetic testing trifecta predicts risk of sudden cardiac death and arrhythmia

A new genetic risk score combines rare and common gene variants with non-coding genome information to predict arrhythmia risk. This comprehensive framework can be applied to other genetically influenced diseases like cancer and Parkinson's Disease.

Quick CPR from lay rescuers can nearly double survival for children after cardiac arrest

A preliminary study reviewed data for over 10,000 children and found that CPR initiated within five minutes of cardiac arrest improved their chances of survival. The time window for CPR in children is shorter than in adults, highlighting the critical importance of immediate action.

Chance to identify young people at risk of cardiac arrest

A nationwide Swedish study found that many young people who died from cardiac arrest had recently sought medical care and showed signs of heart problems. The study suggests that fainting, seizures, and abnormal ECG findings in young people should be taken more seriously to identify those at risk before a sudden arrhythmic death occurs.

CRF and Fogarty Innovation announce strategic merger

The merger strengthens CRF's leadership in medtech, integrating Fogarty's expertise in early-stage innovation. The unified platform will accelerate breakthroughs into patient care, driving global progress in cardiovascular medicine.

Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of automated external defibrillators in private homes

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in private homes show effectiveness in improving patient outcomes for those with shockable rhythms during cardiac arrest. However, considering the rarity of cardiac arrest at home and current AED pricing, general purchase is not deemed cost-effective.

Updated CPR guidelines tackle choking response, opioid-related emergencies and a revised chain of survival

The American Heart Association has published updated CPR guidelines that expand recommendations for managing choking and suspected opioid overdose. The guidelines also provide new guidance on treating newborns, with delayed umbilical cord clamping shown to improve blood health and iron levels.

Women face barriers in accessing, participating in cardiac rehab despite proven benefits

A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association details differences in cardiac rehabilitation access, participation, and outcomes for women compared to men. The statement suggests evidence-based strategies to increase referral and completion rates for cardiac rehab programs among women with cardiovascular disease.

Only 1 in 8 children survive cardiac arrest outside hospital in England, according to first national report

A new national report from the University of Warwick's Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Outcomes (OHCAO) team has revealed that only 13.2% of children who suffer a cardiac arrest outside hospital survive. Children under one year old are at the highest risk, making up 40% of cases in the under 18s.

Neurological outcomes after patients suffer cardiac arrest at home are similar between low- and high-income areas in Vienna

A study of 676 patients who experienced out-of-hospital cardiac arrest found that neurological outcomes were similar regardless of socioeconomic background. However, lower-income areas had lower bystander CPR rates, suggesting disparities in pre-hospital care.

Not all heart attack patients receive the same type of care, researchers find

A new study found significant racial disparities in the care of patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in Florida. Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black patients were less likely to receive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a recommended treatment, compared to non-Hispanic white patients. This disparity resulted in ...

Impact of decline in rescue breathing on child survival in Japan

Researchers found a significant drop in rescue breathing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for children, leading to increased death rates and worse outcomes. The study estimated that the decline may have caused about 10.7 more pediatric deaths each year during the pandemic.

Race, ethnicity, insurance payer, and pediatric cardiac arrest survival

A retrospective cohort study found that children of racial and ethnic minority groups receiving CPR had higher odds of in-hospital mortality. Additionally, the odds of in-hospital mortality among children receiving CPR were higher at hospitals with the highest proportion of Black patients.

Hurricane Sandy linked to lasting heart disease risk in elderly

A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that older adults living in flood-hit areas in New Jersey faced a 5% higher risk of heart disease for up to five years after Hurricane Sandy's landfall. Flooded ZIP code areas had lower median incomes and higher area deprivation index scores, which are linked to worse health outcomes.

Food for thought: Using food delivery services to provide rapid cardiac arrest response and potentially save lives

A simulation study suggests that deploying food delivery riders to deliver defibrillation can reduce automated external defibrillator response times by approximately three minutes, reducing patient waiting time for defibrillation. The approach offers a cost-effective and scalable strategy for improving cardiac arrest outcomes in high-d...

Gene therapy restores functionality in non-human primates after heart attacks

Researchers have successfully treated damage caused by heart attacks in non-human primates using gene therapy, restoring both strength and rhythm of the damaged hearts. The treatment improved heart function in pathological conditions with no adverse effects observed.

WVU researchers train AI to diagnose heart failure in rural patients using low-tech electrocardiograms

Researchers developed AI models that can identify signs of heart failure in patients from Appalachia using low-tech electrocardiogram results. The models achieved high accuracy and could potentially provide clinicians with an edge in protecting patients' cardiac health.

CRF announces TCT 2025 late-breaking clinical trials and science

Late-breaking clinical trials and science at TCT 2025 will present pivotal data on novel therapies, devices, and techniques aimed at preventing and treating cardiovascular conditions. The symposium delivers high-impact findings that shape clinical practice and enhance outcomes for patients with heart and vascular disease.

Takotsubo Syndrome: The hidden heart risks in Intensive Care Units

Researchers from the University of South Australia have identified a potential early warning system for Takotsubo syndrome in ICU patients using electrocardiogram patterns and blood markers. Critical care nurses with advanced ECG skills can play a key role in recognising early signs of the condition.

New study uncovers how genetics and lifestyle drive the heart disease dilated cardiomyopathy

Researchers found that individuals with a mutation in the TTN gene are 21 times more likely to develop dilated cardiomyopathy than those without. Lifestyle factors such as being overweight or having high alcohol consumption contribute to an earlier diagnosis, and men with the mutation are more likely to develop DCM at a younger age.

Treatment for sleep apnoea is good for the heart in some patients but bad for others

Research finds CPAP lowers cardiovascular risk by 17% in patients with high-risk OSA, but may increase risk by 22% in those without high-risk OSA. The study suggests a more personalized approach to treating OSA, focusing on patients with high-risk features.

Debunking a life-threatening myth: "Tongue swallowing prevention" maneuvers delay CPR and might contribute to brain injury or death for collapsed athletes

A study in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology finds that delaying chest compressions to prevent tongue swallowing can lead to poor outcomes, including death or severe brain injury. The research exposes media-fueled misconceptions and emphasizes the importance of immediate CPR training.

Sunny side up for eggs and cholesterol

A new study from the University of South Australia confirms that eggs are not high in cholesterol and do not contribute to cardiovascular disease. In contrast, saturated fat intake was found to increase LDL levels, highlighting the importance of dietary balance for heart health.

Scientists identify why some heart rhythm drugs heighten risks when sodium levels drop

Researchers found that low sodium levels can disrupt the heartbeat in patients taking widely used rhythm-control medications like flecainide, increasing conduction risk. Interfering with ephaptic coupling or potassium ion flow reduces heart sensitivity to low sodium when sodium channels are blocked.

Tens of thousands of heart attacks and strokes could be avoided each year if cholesterol-lowering drugs were used according to guidelines

A new study found significant gaps between recommended and actual use of cholesterol-lowering drugs, with nearly half of eligible patients not taking them. Closing these gaps could prevent tens of thousands of heart attacks, strokes, and bypass surgeries annually, saving up to $30.6 billion in medical costs.

Still top cause of death, the types of heart disease people are dying from is changing

Research reveals significant drop in heart attack deaths, while increases observed in deaths from heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertensive heart disease over the past 50 years. Studies suggest advancements in medical treatment, bystander CPR, and public health initiatives have contributed to these findings.

MRI-based method identifies high-risk cardiac sarcoidosis patients who would benefit from defibrillators

Researchers developed a simpler way to identify patients with suspected cardiac sarcoidosis at increased risk of sudden cardiac death. CMR phenotyping can help determine which patients would benefit from an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for primary prevention, improving decision-making in clinical practice.

Whether it's smoking or edibles, marijuana is bad for your heart

A new study found that chronic cannabis use, whether smoked or consumed as edibles, is associated with significant cardiovascular risks. People who regularly used marijuana had reduced blood vessel function comparable to tobacco smokers.

Two decades of progress in heart failure care

The American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines - Heart Failure registry reveals lasting benefits for hospitalized heart failure patients and hospitals. Hospitals engaging with the program consistently outperform peers on process measures and patient outcomes.

Never too old: medication improves survival rates after a first heart attack even in patients over 90 years old

A study found that prescribing guideline-directed medical treatment to patients 90 years and older following their first heart attack can improve survival rates. The greatest benefit was observed in those who received all four recommended therapies, including beta-blockers and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors.

Male bodybuilders face high risk of sudden cardiac death, especially those who compete professionally

A study published in the European Heart Journal found that male bodybuilders have a high risk of sudden cardiac death, with professional bodybuilders facing a more than fivefold increase in risk. The study highlights the need for greater awareness, preventive strategies and policy changes within the bodybuilding community.

Shingles vaccine lowers the risk of heart disease for up to eight years

A study of over a million people found that shingles vaccination lowers the risk of cardiovascular events, including stroke and coronary heart disease, by up to 26%. The vaccine's protective effect lasts for up to eight years, with strongest benefits in younger people and men.

Join the nation of lifesavers at NFL draft in Green Bay

The American Heart Association and the NFL will offer free Hands-Only CPR instruction at the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay. Compression-only CPR can be equally effective as traditional CPR in emergency response situations, and has the potential to double survival rates of cardiac arrest by 2030.

Heart valve abnormality is associated with malignant arrhythmias

A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that people with a certain heart valve abnormality are at increased risk of severe heart rhythm disorders even after successful valve surgery. The condition is more common in women and younger patients, and can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.