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Common heart condition linked to sudden death

Researchers found a link between mitral valve prolapse and sudden cardiac death, with 14 cases per 1000 per year associated with the condition. The study identified features such as scarring of the heart muscle and heavy mitral valve leakage that put patients at high risk for serious cardiac arrhythmias.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalHeart·DateSep 25, 2018

Predicting arrhythmias so as to prevent them

Scientists have discovered a method to predict certain types of cardiac arrhythmias, allowing for potential prevention and improved heart health. The researchers used mathematical modeling to analyze the transition from normal to abnormal heartbeat patterns in embryonic chicken cells.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2015

Fish oil prevents potentially deadly decline in heart rate variability

A randomized controlled trial found that fish oil supplementation prevented a reduction in heart rate variability in elderly subjects exposed to indoor air pollutant particles. In contrast, soy oil supplements showed a marginal, nonsignificant protective effect against the negative impact of particulate matter on heart rate variability.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 15, 2005

New cardiac arrhythmia syndrome identified

An international team has defined a previously undescribed inherited cardiac arrhythmia syndrome caused by mutations in the ankyrin-B gene. The syndrome, distinct from Long QT Syndrome, is characterized by abnormal heartbeats and increased risk of sudden death, particularly among young people.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 31, 2004