Research on diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Covers microvascular imaging, light exposure, cardiac imaging anxiety, and sex differences in risk.
A study published in JACC found that children who started tobacco smoking at age 10 were significantly more likely to experience premature cardiac injury and increase their risk of cardiovascular mortality. Researchers also discovered that continued smoking from childhood can cause lasting damage to heart muscle and function.
A new gene therapy has reversed the effects of heart failure in a large animal model by increasing blood pumping efficiency and dramatically improving survival rates. The therapy restored critical functions of heart cells and improved heart function on the microscopic level.
Annals of Thoracic Surgery Short Reports has been accepted for indexing in PubMed Central, enhancing its reach and impact within the global medical community. The journal is on pace for 750 submissions in 2024, with over 400 articles published across eight electronic issues, attracting more than 240,000 page views or downloads.
The American Heart Association has released its list of top cardiovascular research for 2024, focusing on prevention, treatment and the benefits of anti-obesity medications. The research highlights improvements in assessing cardiovascular risk, identifying early prevention opportunities and treating heart failure.
Researchers at Lund University Diabetes Centre have mapped out differences in the atherosclerotic process in people with type 2 diabetes. The study found that high blood sugar levels can lead to reduced ability to form protective connective tissue in atherosclerotic plaques, increasing cardiovascular risk.
A large-scale Swedish study found that drinking sweetened beverages significantly increases cardiovascular disease risk, while limited consumption of treats doesn't. The study suggests considering the source and context of sugar intake for better cardiovascular health outcomes.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified two types of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, a liver-specific type and a systemic type that affects other organs. The discovery could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of this growing patient group, with potential benefits for cardiovascular health.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine found a strong association between living in disadvantaged neighborhoods and higher blood pressure and lower cognitive scores. The study analyzed data from over 500 adults aged 55+ and used the Area Deprivation Index to measure neighborhood disadvantage.
A groundbreaking study has established the world's largest and most geographically comprehensive international norms for handgrip strength, covering 2.4 million adults from 69 countries. The new norms enable global peer-comparison, health screening, and surveillance across the adult lifespan, helping clinicians identify people at risk ...
A study published in Nature Mental Health found that nearly half of young asylum seekers in the US exhibit worrisome symptoms of cardiovascular disease, including heart palpitations and chest pain. This unexpected prevalence highlights the need for clinicians to consider cardiovascular concerns when evaluating this younger population.
Researchers used AI on CT scans originally meant for tumors to detect calcium buildup in arteries, a sign of worsening cardiovascular disease. The study found that this opportunistic screening could predict heart attacks or other cardiovascular events with high accuracy.
Valentin Fuster, MD, PhD, has made significant contributions to the understanding of atherosclerosis through his research on inflammation, thrombosis, and treatment breakthroughs. His work has led to major advances in diagnosis and therapy, including the development of a cardiovascular 'polypill' that reduces cardiovascular mortality.
The American Heart Association has launched a new three-year initiative to standardize HCM systems of care and support better management of the disease. The initiative aims to overcome gaps in care for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, leading to delayed treatment, increased risk of complications, and preventable death.
A new review paper finds that regular coffee consumption adds an average of 1.8 years to a person's life, with benefits seen in both men and women. The study suggests that moderate coffee consumption can play a role in mitigating against chronic diseases and promoting healthy aging.
Researchers found that only programs promoting physical activity or eating more fruit and vegetables showed promise, while others had little effect. Tailored, multi-level and innovative approaches are required to enact positive change among truck drivers.
A study found that middle-aged women who engaged in short bursts of vigorous physical activity, such as carrying shopping or power walking, had a significantly lower risk of heart attacks and heart failure. Women who averaged 3.4 minutes of daily activity were 45% less likely to experience a major cardiovascular event.
A higher ratio of plant-based protein to animal-based protein may significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. Consuming more plant protein overall, combined with a higher plant-to-animal protein ratio, provides the most heart health benefits.
A new study reveals that lung cancer screening CTs can detect coronary artery disease in 83% of cases, with high levels found in 30%. This finding highlights the potential benefits of lung cancer screening for identifying and managing cardiovascular risk factors.
A new review reveals how sleep disturbances exacerbate dementia symptoms, impacting overall health and caregiver well-being. The study emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to address coexisting conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Long-term hormone therapy in transgender individuals leads to significant changes in body composition and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Transgender men experience increased muscle volume and abdominal fat, while women's muscle mass decreases, according to a new study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine.
A U-shaped association between waist circumference and all-cause mortality was found in women, while a J-shaped trend was observed in men with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that optimal waist circumference thresholds for minimizing mortality risk are 107 cm for women and 89 cm for men.
A machine learning algorithm developed by researchers at Aarhus University can identify patients at high risk of involuntary admission within six months. The study, based on electronic health record data, suggests that the algorithm can improve targeted treatment and prevention in psychiatric services.
The review explores the pathophysiological relationship between OSA and MetS, revealing a complex cycle of increased cardiovascular risks. Treatment options, including CPAP, weight management, and metabolic surgery, are discussed for improving patient outcomes.
Researchers found a novel link between aortic stenosis and insulin resistance, with certain biomarkers increasing the risk of the disease. The study's findings suggest that managing metabolic health could be a new approach to reduce the risk of AS and improve cardiovascular health in aging populations.
Researchers analyzed the effects of seven hormone treatments on blood clots, stroke, and heart attack in nearly one million women. The study shows that the risks differ depending on the type of treatment, with some linked to increased cardiovascular disease risk and others to no increased risk.
Research highlights Nup93's critical role in endothelial cell function and vascular health, with promising findings for new treatments to slow down aging. Low Nup93 levels are associated with inflammation and cellular aging, while restoring its levels can reverse harmful effects.
A study of 49 million patients in England found that routine screening for cardiometabolic conditions like obesity and high blood pressure dropped sharply during the pandemic. Blood pressure measurements remained lower than pre-pandemic levels as of March 2024, particularly among lower socioeconomic groups.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found a slightly higher likelihood of androgenetic alopecia among individuals who consume alcohol, but the association is not statistically significant. The study suggests that further research is needed to clarify whether alcohol impacts AGA risk.
Knowing family health history is crucial for reducing heart attack and stroke risk. Experts recommend following Life's Essential 8 - five health behaviors and three health factors to lower genetic risks.
A Finnish study found that prolonged standing at work had a negative impact on 24-hour blood pressure, while sedentary work was not necessarily harmful. The study suggests that engaging in recreational physical activity during leisure time can help maintain fitness and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The new effort aims to rapidly transform academic breakthroughs into life-saving therapies for a range of medical conditions. Autobahn Labs will invest up to $5 million per selected project to support the development of new pharmaceuticals.
A new study maps genetic traits to cellular composition of atherosclerotic plaques, predicting future stroke or heart attack risk. The research improves risk assessment and treatment for patients with atherosclerosis.
A clinical trial testing muvalaplin, a novel oral medication, safely and effectively lowered high levels of Lp(a), a type of inherited cholesterol. The study found that muvalaplin disrupted the formation of the Lp(a) particle, acting as an effective approach to lowering Lp(a) levels.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that long-term use of common cardiovascular drugs is associated with a lower risk of dementia. The study, which analyzed data from over 880,000 people, shows that these medications can reduce dementia risk by 4-25%.
A new study by Intermountain Health found that coronary artery calcium scores are highly effective in identifying those at risk for future heart attacks and death, with similar predictive power in women as in men. The study revealed that individuals with a CAC score of zero were three times less likely to die from any cause.
Zerlasiran, a small-interfering RNA targeting hepatic synthesis of apolipoprotein(a), significantly reduced time-averaged lipoprotein(a) concentrations by over 80% during 36 weeks of treatment. This finding has potential implications for the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Researchers from Salk Institute found that specific dietary fats are incorporated into sphingolipids to drive the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The team discovered that trans fats are preferentially metabolized by an enzyme, leading to increased lipoprotein secretion and plaque formation.
Researchers found that a high-flavanol cocoa drink can protect the body's vasculature against stress even after eating high-fat food. Flavanols in green tea and other foods also showed benefits for cardiovascular health.
Researchers found that alcohol-related deaths in the US surged dramatically between 1999 and 2020, with a nearly fourfold increase in those aged 25-34. The study highlights significant gender differences and regional disparities, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to combat the growing US alcohol mortality epidemic.
The study found that substituting pure maple syrup for refined sugars reduced several cardiometabolic risk factors in humans, including improved blood sugar levels and lowered blood pressure. Visceral fat mass also decreased significantly in the maple syrup group. The study's findings suggest that incorporating maple syrup into daily d...
Studies published in JACC found that anti-obesity drugs such as tirzepatide and semaglutide improved cardiac structure and function, as well as reduced cardiac risk biomarkers with lifestyle interventions. These findings suggest that these treatments may have a transformative impact on cardiovascular health beyond weight loss.
Deepak Srivastava, MD, is recognized for his organizational leadership and scientific innovation at Gladstone Institutes. His lab has made significant discoveries in treating heart disease and repairing heart damage.
Research highlights edoxaban's effectiveness in reducing stroke and blood clots for patients after bioprosthetic heart valve replacement. Edoxaban was found to be equally or more effective than warfarin, with a predictable pharmacokinetic profile and reduced burden on patients.
A new AI program, PanEcho, has been developed to interpret echocardiography videos independently, reducing wait times and improving timely medical care. The program demonstrated accuracy in estimating continuous echocardiographic parameters and quantifying left ventricle dimensions and function.
A clinical trial found that combining two commonly recommended medications into a single pill lowered blood pressure and was safe among Indian adults. The study's results have significant meaning for South Asian adults, including those living in the US.
A recent study found that intensive systolic blood pressure reduction approaches can significantly reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with Type 2 diabetes. Lowering systolic blood pressure to less than 120mmHg led to a reduced risk of heart attack, stroke, and death from cardiovascular disease.
A new study by Mass General Brigham researchers found that excessive sedentary behavior increases the risk of heart failure and cardiovascular death. Even among individuals who meet guideline levels of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, sitting for extended periods can still pose significant health risks. The study's findings sugg...
A recent study published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery found that non-white patients have twice the risk of dying within 30 days of carotid endarterectomy compared to white patients. The study analyzed data from over half a million patients and highlights persistent racial disparities in medical outcomes.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered a new target for treating atherosclerosis by identifying an inflammation-reducing molecule called itaconate. This finding may lead to the development of a new therapeutic approach that mimics the beneficial effects of a low-fat diet without requiring drastic lifestyle changes.
Singer Amy Grant's personal testimonial highlights the urgent need for support to save women's lives by funding research into better diagnosing, treating, and preventing cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association aims to address awareness gaps and bridge clinical care gaps in women's heart health.
A new scientific statement highlights improvements in diagnosis, initial treatment, and long-term management of patients with Kawasaki Disease, emphasizing the need for tailored management strategies. Advances in cardiac imaging techniques and risk categorization have led to better patient outcomes.
According to the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8, primary care clinicians can help patients reduce their risk of heart disease by addressing modifiable risk factors through lifestyle changes and treatment. Despite challenges, research shows that primary care professionals with a higher ratio have lower total costs of ca...
Research suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, commonly prescribed for Type 2 diabetes or weight loss, may lower the risk of heart attack and recurrent stroke in adults who have had an initial stroke. The study analyzed data from over 7,000 adults with ischemic strokes between 2000 and 2022.
A new study found that obesity-related heart disease deaths increased by 180% in the US over two decades, with significant disparities among middle-aged men, Black adults, and residents of Midwestern states. The analysis also revealed unexpected patterns, such as Vermont having the highest death rate for obesity-related CVD deaths.
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that Black patients are two to three times as likely to retain or gain additional weight compared to white counterparts. The study suggests interventions addressing the underlying stressors of discrimination could complement community and clinical interventions.
The editorial highlights how digital tools improve patient outcomes through better monitoring, individualized care, and seamless communication between patients and healthcare providers. Digital health innovations also address key challenges such as data privacy and accessibility.
A new study found that even moderate amounts of exercise can reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition. The research, led by NYU Langone Health, used data from over 6,000 participants and showed that those with higher physical activity levels had a lower risk of developing the condition.
A preliminary study found that neighborhoods previously subjected to redlining had higher rates of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors due to reduced access to healthy foods. Researchers analyzed data from over 11,000 U.S. Census tracts across 38 states, controlling for population size.
Dr. Jeffrey Popma joins CRF as Chief Scientific and Strategic Officer, bringing decades of clinical and research experience to drive forward pivotal programs and initiatives. His leadership will shape CRF's future and fuel innovation at the Clinical Trials Center.
Cardiovascular disease death rates increased by 21% for adults aged 25-64 living in rural areas, while urban adults saw a 9% decline between 2010 and 2022. Younger rural adults are particularly vulnerable to cardiovascular mortality due to worsening cardiometabolic health and reduced healthcare access.