Research on diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Covers microvascular imaging, light exposure, cardiac imaging anxiety, and sex differences in risk.
The American Heart Association joins a $10 million grant from the Global Cardiovascular Research Funders Forum for international scientific research on cardiovascular health in women. The International Research Challenge aims to address significant gaps in research, diagnosis, and care for women worldwide.
Researchers have identified hundreds of genes and microproteins specific to human hearts, which are also abnormally expressed in heart failure. These findings provide new insights into cardiac disease and suggest potential targets for therapy.
The 2024 guideline provides comprehensive recommendations for assessing cardiovascular disease risk and managing patients taking SGLT2-inhibitors. It also highlights the importance of judicious screening and evidence-based management of cardiovascular conditions before, during, and after noncardiac surgery.
A consensus statement emphasizes the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of cardiovascular disease in women, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The statement recommends the establishment of women's heart champions and hubs to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
A new study found that up to 10 million people in the US could qualify for Medicare-covered semaglutide injections, depending on their level of cardiovascular risk. Those with higher risk scores would be eligible for full or partial coverage, potentially expanding access to this life-saving medication.
Older cancer survivors are at a higher risk of stroke, heart attack, and hospital admission for heart failure. Chemotherapy is also linked to elevated rates of these conditions.
Researchers developed a compact 'gene scissor' tool, TnpB, which shows a 4.4-fold increase in efficiency of modifying DNA, making it more effective as a gene editing tool. The tool can be used to treat patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, reducing cholesterol levels by nearly 80%.
A study from the University of Copenhagen detected lipid biomarkers in obese children that indicate a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, liver, and heart disease later in life. A one-year lifestyle intervention lowered these biomarkers, demonstrating the importance of early intervention for children with obesity.
Researchers at the CNIC found that respiratory complex I possesses sodium transport activity essential for efficient cellular energy production. This discovery provides a molecular explanation for Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy and may have implications for other neurodegenerative diseases.
A study finds that cardiometabolic indicators like metabolic syndrome and diabetes impair coronary microvascular function, increasing cardiovascular risk. The presence of subclinical atherosclerosis also contributes to altered microvessel function.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital used advanced machine learning to increase the accuracy of a national cardiovascular risk calculator while preserving its interpretability. The results showed higher accuracy overall in an electronic health records cohort, reclassifying one out of ten patients into a different risk category.
Researchers developed a breakthrough nanoparticle technology that offers an effective solution to diagnose and treat atherosclerosis in a non-invasive manner. The innovative theranostic approach can target atherosclerotic plaques and deliver therapeutic agents directly to inhibit the progression of atherosclerosis.
Researchers found that adopting an electronic patient management system for direct oral anticoagulants reduced off-label dosing by 8%, while also decreasing the rate of blood clots and strokes. The online dashboard, used at over 120 hospitals, highlights treatment optimization and improves patient safety.
Researchers identified changes in the UBR4 gene as a key driver of fibromuscular dysplasia, a blood vessel disorder affecting up to five percent of adults. The discovery could lead to therapeutic approaches for the condition, particularly beneficial for women who account for 90% of cases.
Researchers found an association between consuming foods with lower nutritional quality and a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, particularly myocardial infarction and stroke. The study used the latest version of the Nutri-Score algorithm and included over 345,000 participants from seven European countries.
Research found that babies born to pregnant women consuming high-fat, high-energy diets are more likely to develop heart problems and diabetes as adults due to fetal damage. Consuming a high-fat diet during pregnancy also increases the likelihood of insulin resistance in adulthood.
A global increase in testing for lipoprotein(a) is recommended due to one in five people being at risk of cardiovascular diseases. The test can help identify individuals who would benefit from medication that lowers the lipid particle significantly.
The study found that semaglutide was effective in preventing heart attacks and other major adverse cardiovascular events as well as death in adults with impaired kidney function. The results showed a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease risk with semaglutide, even among those with poor kidney function.
A recent study published in the Chinese Medical Journal Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine investigated nicotine dependence among smokers in China. The research found that 41.0% of smokers aged 40 and above had medium-to-high nicotine dependence, with men more affected than women.
A new study published in Health Data Science reveals that both spontaneous and induced abortions are associated with an increased risk of premature mortality. The research found that induced abortions were strongly linked to cardiovascular death, while spontaneous abortions also elevated the risk of all-cause premature mortality.
A cross-sectional study found that over 50% of adults with uncontrolled hypertension in the US are unaware of their condition and untreated. Despite treatment, 70.8% of patients experience persistent uncontrolled hypertension, highlighting a need for improved healthcare strategies to address this critical public health issue.
Researchers at CNIC have identified endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition as a novel mechanism in premature atherosclerosis in progeria. The study proposes a new therapeutic target for this disease and highlights the importance of investigating rare diseases like progeria.
A new study published in the journal JCI Insight found that male mice fed high-cholesterol diets have increased cardiovascular disease risk in their female offspring. The researchers used a novel method to study sperm small RNA and discovered altered molecules that affect gene expression in early embryonic stem cells.
Research found that first-degree relatives and spouses of cancer patients are at higher risk of developing psychological and cardiovascular illnesses. The study used data from the Utah Population Database to compare 77,938 relatives and spouses with 81,022 controls, finding a 10% increase in psychological condition risks and a 28% incr...
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 99 randomized controlled trials found that vitamin D supplementation reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and fasting blood glucose in various populations. The benefits were most pronounced in non-Western groups, individuals with low baseline vitamin D levels, those ...
Researchers at Umeå University have identified unique inflammatory protein profiles in the blood of individuals with severe periodontitis, which is associated with lower levels of EGF and OLR-1 proteins. The study provides a promising lead for developing biomarkers and treatments for the disease.
Researchers discovered that aficamten, a cardiac myosin inhibitor, significantly improved exercise capacity and cardiac structure and function measures in patients with HOCM. The study found marked improvements in peak oxygen uptake, workload achieved, breathing efficiency, and submaximum exercise capacity.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have identified a protein called OSER1 that influences longevity in various animals and humans. The discovery opens up possibilities for understanding age-related diseases and developing new drug targets.
Research explores relationship between cardiac metabolism dysfunction and heart failure in the elderly, revealing potential therapeutic targets for improved cardiac outcomes. The study highlights the critical role of Pdk4 and MIF in cardiac metabolism, suggesting innovative treatments to manage interconnected cardiovascular conditions.
A large-scale prospective cohort study found a positive association between regular mobile phone use and incident cardiovascular disease risk, particularly in smokers and individuals with diabetes. Poor sleep patterns, psychological distress, and neuroticism may be key mechanisms underlying this association.
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are a major global health issue, characterized by their chronic nature and long-term impact on quality of life. In China, understanding the extent and distribution of NCDs is essential for developing effective public health strategies.
Research published in the journal Heart found that women, Black people, and those from low-income households are less likely to be offered heart surgery than men, White people, and affluent individuals. When they do receive surgery, they are more likely to die within a year. The study highlights the need for prompt action to tackle the...
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial found finerenone improved outcomes in patients with heart failure and mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction. The drug also showed benefits regardless of the ejection fraction and even in patients on other approved therapies.
Researchers found that measuring two types of fat in the bloodstream along with C-reactive protein can predict a woman's risk for cardiovascular disease decades later. Women with high levels of LDL cholesterol, Lp(a) and CRP had increased associated risks for heart disease, stroke and coronary heart disease.
A novel low-dose 3-in-1 blood pressure pill (GMRx2) significantly reduces blood pressure in patients with uncontrolled hypertension. After six months treatment, the GMRx2 group achieved a 5.8mmHg lower systolic blood pressure compared to standard care.
A blood test that measures three modifiable factors together can better predict cardiovascular risk than any marker used alone. The study found that inflammation is at least as important as cholesterol in predicting cardiovascular events.
The global prevalence of obesity has more than doubled over the past four decades, affecting over a billion individuals. Notably, 67.5% of deaths related to high BMI are attributable to cardiovascular disease.
A recent study led by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that semaglutide reduced deaths from cardiovascular disease and infections, including COVID-19, in obese and overweight patients. The study involved over 17,000 participants and showed a 19% lower overall death rate compared to placebo.
New studies show semaglutide reduces all-cause death, CV death, and non-CV death in people with overweight or obesity and established cardiovascular disease. The medication also improves heart failure symptoms and physical limitations in those with obesity-related HFpEF, regardless of sex.
The new guidelines evaluate PAAD as part of the same cardiovascular system, acknowledging the interconnectedness between aortic and peripheral vascular diseases. The updated recommendations focus on chronic management, screening, and comprehensive treatment strategies to improve treatment outcomes.
A new substudy of the SELECT Trial found that semaglutide reduced rates of all-cause death, CV death, and non-CV death, including death from COVID-19, in patients with overweight or obesity and established cardiovascular disease without diabetes. Semaglutide also showed protective effects against COVID-19-related adverse events.
The new guidelines recommend intensified BP targets, introducing a novel elevated blood pressure category to identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease. The updated recommendations also focus on 'frailty' rather than chronological age and introduce a new systolic BP treatment target range of 120-129 mmHg.
Researchers used genetic method Mendelian randomization to show high levels of fasting insulin cause reduction in Lp(a), rather than the other way around. Low Lp(a) is unlikely to be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, independent of pre-existing hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance.
High levels of lipoprotein (a) found in 20-34% of Polish patients with heart disease or at risk. Lp(a) measurements may be crucial in preventing cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis progression.
The UofL Green Heart Louisville Project found that residents living in neighborhoods with more trees showed lower levels of general inflammation, a risk indicator for heart disease. The study showed a 13-20% reduction in inflammation, corresponding to a nearly 10-15% reduced risk of heart attacks and certain cancers.
A new study estimates that 1 in 7 Medicare beneficiaries with elevated body mass index (BMI) may qualify for semaglutide, a popular weight loss medication. The study found that maximum annual costs to Medicare could exceed $10 billion if different definitions of cardiovascular risk are considered.
A new study found that semaglutide significantly reduces major adverse cardiac events, including heart attacks and strokes, among overweight individuals with cardiovascular disease. The medication also shows similar benefits for people with pre-existing heart failure, regardless of type or severity.
A team of researchers from Columbia University and Harvard University report that autoantibodies alone directly affect heart function in lupus patients. The study identified four autoantibodies that may directly affect the heart muscle, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Researchers have discovered a new site on beta-2 adrenergic receptors that allows healthy signals to pass through, minimizing harmful side effects of beta-blocker medication. The gut microbial pathway is associated with cardiovascular disease risks and can be independently targeted.
Researchers developed a new platelet-centric scoring system to predict platelet hyperreactivity and cardiovascular events. The Platelet Reactivity ExpresSion Score (PRESS) can detect hyperreactive platelets in patients at imminent risk of heart attack and healthy individuals with unknown future risk.
A 15-minute gamified workplace wellness program increased participants' average daily physical activity levels by 12 minutes per day, with 95% meeting physical activity guidelines. Participants also reported improvements in fitness, energy, overall health, sleep quality, and mood.
Elevated PECAM-1 levels found to decrease the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and myocardial infarction. The causal relationship between PECAM-1 level and CVDs confirmed through Mendelian randomization study, offering insights into PECAM-1 pathogenesis in CVD.
Vascular Adhesion Molecules (VAMs) are linked to inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and plaque formation. Targeting these molecules could improve CVD prevention and biomarker-guided treatment. The study explores the potential role of VAMs in CVD development.
A new study reveals that chicken, ketchup, and even morning lattes can contribute to overconsumption of saturated fat and added sugar. The analysis of data from 35,000 US adults found that these 'stealth' sources add up to a significant risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer.
The International Space Station National Laboratory is collaborating with NASA to fund up to $4 million in research addressing significant diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disease. The joint solicitation aims to leverage microgravity to improve existing or develop new technologies for health problems ...
A nationwide cohort study of 254,670 Chinese adults aged 40-80 years reveals significant interactions between age, gender, and sleep duration on lipid levels. The study highlights the importance of considering age in studies of gender differences in metabolic diseases and advocates for personalized prevention and management strategies.
A new study found that digital health tools can improve health and wellbeing by keeping people active, boosting steps, and improving diet and sleep. The research synthesised data from 206,873 people across 47 studies, indicating that electronic and mobile health interventions can help people achieve positive outcomes.
A recent study published in Cell Metabolism reveals a critical link between defects in the urea cycle and the development of fatty liver disease. The researchers found that these defects lead to secondary impairment in energy metabolism, resulting in excessive fat storage and inflammation in the liver.
A new study found that routine laboratory tests are not reliable for diagnosing Long COVID, with no biomarker among 25 clinical laboratory values providing a clinically useful diagnosis. The researchers suggest treating symptoms rather than relying on lab results to diagnose the condition.
The American College of Cardiology has released a new guidance on managing patients hospitalized for heart failure, recommending tailored therapy based on clinical trajectory. The updated Expert Consensus Decision Pathway aims to improve disease management and reduce mortality.