When regulatory T cells go bad
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology and Augusta University have identified a link between
Cardiovascular Disease
Articles tagged with Cardiovascular Disease
Particulate air pollution a growing risk for premature CVD death and disability worldwide
A new study found consistent increases in premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) death and disability due to particulate matter air pollution globally. The analysis, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, revealed a 8.1% rise in age-standardized CVD deaths attributed to outdoor PM pollution between 1990 and 2019.
World’s largest study shows the more you walk, the lower your risk of death, even if you walk fewer than 5,000 steps
The study found that walking at least 3967 steps a day reduces the risk of dying from any cause, while 2337 steps a day reduces the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The researchers also found that every 500-1000 extra steps increase health benefits and reduce mortality risk by up to 15%.
Game-changing potential for drug testing and cardiovascular disease treatments - Tiny Heart Model Carries Massive Implications
A miniature human heart model, approximately half a grain of rice in size, has been developed to transform drug testing and cardiovascular research. This self-paced, multi-chambered model provides real-time measurements of essential parameters, enabling unprecedented insights into heart function and diseases.
New treatment method reduces size and increases stability of atherosclerotic plaque on arterial walls, preventing heart diseases: NUS study
Researchers at NUS have developed a new treatment method that reduces the size and increases the stability of atherosclerotic plaques in arterial walls. The treatment involves injecting omega-3 fatty acids into the bloodstream via nanomedicine, which helps to reduce inflammation and prevent plaque rupture.
Survey of CVD programs finds more resources needed for heart disease and stroke risk in youth
A new American Heart Association science advisory emphasizes the need for more resources and best practices in pediatric preventive cardiovascular care. The survey found that many programs are overwhelmed with referrals and have long wait times, highlighting the importance of updated guidelines and strategic action plans.
A wake-up call for kids’ poor heart health
A new study reveals a high incidence of youth with cardiovascular risk factors but inadequate resources to provide preventive care. Pediatricians and policymakers must address these gaps by investing in pediatric preventive cardiology and increasing collaboration between programs.
Out with the life coach, in with the chatbot
Researchers at the University of South Australia found that chatbots significantly improved physical activity, diet and sleep. Chatbots were effective across different age groups and more conducive to achieving positive outcomes than speech-based AI. A blended approach with human coaching may be the most beneficial.
A new technique offers improved diagnostic precision and a route to personalized therapy for a common arrhythmia that affects more than 10 million people in Europe
A new diagnostic method assesses electrical and mechanical activity in the heart during atrial fibrillation, providing personalized assessment of atrial remodeling. This can help predict disease progression and guide treatment.
We’re closer to engineering blood vessels
University of Melbourne researchers developed a novel approach to 'tissue engineering' blood vessels by combining multiple materials and fabrication technologies. The method creates blood vessels with complex geometries like native blood vessels, offering a transformative solution for cardiovascular disease.
Racial, ethnic disparities in survival among people with second primary cancer
Researchers analyzed data from 230,000 individuals with second primary cancers, revealing higher mortality rates among Black and Hispanic populations compared to whites. The study highlights the need for targeted research on survival disparities in multiple primary cancer survivors.
University of Minnesota-led study links long-term artificial sweetener intake to increased body fat adipose tissue volume
A University of Minnesota-led study found that long-term consumption of aspartame and saccharin is associated with increased volumes of visceral, intermuscular, and subcutaneous adipose tissue. The researchers recommend considering alternative approaches to artificial sweeteners due to potential health consequences.
IU-led intervention leveraging technology reduces depression in Indianapolis-area patients
A recent study by Indiana University researchers found that an e-health and telehealth-based collaborative care intervention had a significant impact on patients with depression. The intervention resulted in a 43% reduction in depressive symptoms among participants, compared to only 17% in the usual primary care group.
Important step toward next-generation probiotics
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a new strategy for producing oxygen-tolerant probiotics, including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, which can improve glucose control. The combination of bacteria increased biomass and butyrate production, making it safe for human consumption.
University of Minnesota-led study shows Hmong stroke patients are younger, other unique stroke patterns
A University of Minnesota-led study identified higher incidence of brain hemorrhage, hardening of the arteries, and small vessel disease in Hmong stroke patients. Risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes are prevalent among this community.
Predicting heart failure with longitudinal urine patterns and its changing
Researchers found that stable, long-term elevation in urinary albumin excretion is associated with a high risk of new-onset heart failure and mortality. Persistently high levels were linked to older patients and those with conditions like diabetes and previous heart attacks.
Researchers identify “clear changes” in ageing brain using novel techniques
The study reveals altered magnitudes and coherence between oscillations in brain vasculature and brain waves in older adults. This finding has significant implications for the assessment of Alzheimer's disease and monitoring of neurodegenerative disorders.
Routinely drinking alcohol may raise blood pressure even in adults without hypertension
Research analyzed seven international studies and found a continuous increase in blood pressure measures with both low and high alcohol intake. Low levels of alcohol consumption were linked to detectable increases in blood pressure levels, which may lead to a higher risk of cardiovascular events.
Pennington Biomedical’s Prachi Singh secures $3.7 million grant to study reduced sleep and intermittent fasting
Dr. Prachi Singh of Pennington Biomedical Research Center has received a $3.7 million grant from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to investigate the cardiovascular risks associated with limited sleep and extended eating duration.
New study finds the prealbumin gene alone is insufficient for diagnosis of heart failure
A new multi-center study found that having a genetic variant in the prealbumin gene alone is not sufficient for diagnosing transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy in older Black patients. Researchers suggest that a blood test measuring prealbumin levels may be useful in identifying patients at risk of developing cardiac amyloidosis.
USTC unveils 3D structure and molecular mechanism of platelet drug transporter ABCC4
The study reveals the molecular mechanism by which ABCC4 recognizes broad-spectrum substrates, providing a structural basis for rational design of platelet antagonists targeting ABCC4. The research also elucidated the molecular mechanism of ABCC4 in binding and transporting platelet agonists and antagonists.
Cardiovascular disease: key molecular pathway affecting atherosclerosis progression discovered
A team of researchers identified a specific subtype of complement-producing macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions that exacerbate plaque necrosis and cardiovascular events. The study suggests a potential therapeutic target to control complement activation within cells, which may also apply to other chronic inflammatory diseases.
Illicit drug use is involved in nearly one in three sudden cardiac deaths in young adults
A new study reveals that illicit drug use is involved in nearly one in three sudden cardiac deaths (SCDs) among young adults in Victoria, Australia. The analysis of data from a statewide registry found higher levels of illicit drugs and multiple substance use among SCD patients.
People with heart failure can step their way to better health
A study published in JACC: Heart Failure found that people with heart failure who increase their daily step count experience improvements in health status over a 12-week period. The study suggests that wearable device data, such as step counts, can be clinically significant and inform future clinical trials and care.
For people with diabetes, healthy eating is not enough if their diet is rich in ultra-processed foods
A study by I.R.C.C.S. Neuromed found that high consumption of ultra-processed foods significantly increases mortality risk among people with type 2 diabetes. Even those following a Mediterranean diet are at increased risk if ultra-processed foods account for a large share of their diet.
NIH-funded study explains link to increased cardiovascular risks for people with obstructive sleep apnea
Researchers found that people with obstructive sleep apnea have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, with reduced blood oxygen levels being the leading factor. The study suggests that treating sleep apnea could help prevent future cardiovascular outcomes.
ACC Latin America 2023 highlights emerging trends, contemporary best practices in CV care
The conference will focus on optimizing patient care in the Latin America region, discussing strategies to improve heart health and address rising cardiovascular disease rates. Key topics include cardiac rehabilitation, heart failure management, and practical approaches for clinicians.
$2.1 million awarded to research link between migraine, strokes and cardiovascular disease
The American Heart Association has funded seven new scientific research projects to explore the connection between migraines, strokes, and cardiovascular disease. The studies will analyze existing datasets using machine learning and aim to create a collaborative group of experts to uncover the causes of increased risk.
AI uses lung CT data to predict mortality risk
A new study published in Radiology found that AI can use data from low-dose CT scans of the lungs to improve risk prediction for death from various causes. The study used data from over 20,000 individuals and found that body composition measurements derived from lung screening LDCT were strong predictors of mortality.
Protein found to protect females against obesity
Researchers at UC Riverside discovered that female mice secrete more RELMalpha, an immune protein, which protects them against obesity and inflammation. In contrast, male mice have lower levels of RELMalpha, leading to increased inflammation and obesity.
Vegetarian dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk in people with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease
A vegetarian diet has been shown to modestly but significantly improve cardiometabolic outcomes in people at high risk of cardiovascular disease. This finding suggests that vegetarian diets could be a useful addition to standard pharmacological therapy for primary prevention.
Highlights from the journal CHEST®, July 2023
The July issue of CHEST journal features 49 articles on clinically relevant topics, including disability rights and life-sustaining treatment. The journal offers complementary web resources, such as visual abstracts, to expand the reach of its research.
ACP says the US needs immediate action to prepare for future pandemics
The American College of Physicians recommends a federal pandemic preparedness plan, prioritizing health equity and real-time data sharing. ACP also calls for bolstering healthcare supply chains and supporting medical practices during emergencies.
New therapies to improve cardiovascular health
Researchers at EMBL Heidelberg discovered that mutations in the RBM20 gene cause familial DCM by disrupting normal RNA splicing, leading to detrimental cytoplasmic granules. Targeted gene editing via CRISPR-Cas9 and restoring nuclear localisation of RBM20 could improve therapy options for patients.
LSU Health’s Lazartigues honored by American Heart Association
Dr. Eric Lazartigues has been recognized for his groundbreaking research on salt-sensitive hypertension and the role of the brain renin-angiotensin system in regulating blood pressure. His work has led to a deeper understanding of hypertension's impact on cardiovascular diseases and mortality.
Cause of sleep disturbance in cardiac disease identified: Ganglia play previously unrecognized role
A study published in Science reveals that ganglia in the neck region are responsible for disrupting melatonin production and causing sleep disturbances in people with heart conditions. Researchers found that macrophages accumulate in the ganglion, leading to inflammation and scarring, which can be treated with drugs.
Symptom relief and healthy habits are top goals for treating chronic heart disease
The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recommend a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle to prevent worsening health in people with chronic coronary disease. Clinicians should coordinate care between cardiovascular and primary care professionals, emphasizing team-based approach and social determinants of health.
A novel drug screen identifies potential new therapy to lower bad cholesterol levels
Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina have identified a novel class of compounds that effectively lower cholesterol, triglycerides and apoB in human liver-like cells. These molecules work independently of the LDLR pathway and offer a new treatment regimen for patients with familial hypercholesterolemia.
One pill doesn’t fit all: Cholesterol study reveals effects on lung function and brain size
A recent study found that PCSK9 inhibitors may impair lung function in some patients, while statins have a protective effect on the brain, increasing hippocampus volume which may reduce dementia and depression risk. The study used genetic data from 340,000 UK Biobank participants.
Cardiac rehabilitation reduces risk of death years after heart surgery, still underutilized
A Michigan Medicine study finds that patients who participate in cardiac rehabilitation have a decreased risk of death years after surgery. The greatest reduction in mortality was found in patients who completed 36 or more sessions, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to improve participation and adherence.
Accelerometer-derived ‘weekend warrior’ physical activity and incident cardiovascular disease
A study analyzing 89,000 individuals found that engaging in intense physical activity over a short period (weekend warrior pattern) lowers the risk of atrial fibrillation, heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. This type of activity was associated with similar lower risks compared to evenly distributed physical activity.
Mass General researchers find “weekend warrior” physical activity provides similar heart-related benefits as more regular exercise
Massachusetts General Hospital researchers discovered that concentrating moderate-to-vigorous physical activity into one to two days per week, or the
‘Digital twins’ of patients’ hearts harness personal genetics to inform disease management
Researchers created a digital replica of patients' hearts to inform arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) diagnosis and treatment. The 'genotype-specific digital-twin' strategy could tailor therapies based on individual genetics, improving precision healthcare in other diseases.
Racial disparities discovered in patients with cardiac devices
A new study reveals that Black patients with ICDs have a significantly higher rate of post-implant cardiac events and risk of death compared to white patients. The study also shows that Black patients are more likely to discontinue medications after one year, but the reasons for this are unknown.
AI to predict your health later in life — all at the press of a button
Researchers from Edith Cowan University developed software to analyze bone density scans, detecting abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) at high accuracy. The AI can predict cardiovascular disease events and late-life dementia, allowing for early interventions.
Home blood pressure monitoring saves lives, cuts costs, and reduces healthcare disparities
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine finds that home blood pressure monitoring can reduce cardiovascular events by 4.9% and stroke cases by 3.8% over 20 years, leading to cost savings and improved health outcomes for underserved populations.
Doctors warn of looming threat to America’s surgical research
A team of UVA Health experts warns that surgeon-scientists are struggling to obtain research funding, which could lead to a decline in innovations for patients. The researchers found that internal medicine trainees are six times more likely to secure R01 grants and career development awards.
Association between historical neighborhood redlining and cardiovascular outcomes among veterans
A cohort study found that U.S. veterans with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease residing in historically redlined neighborhoods still experience higher prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and adverse cardiovascular events. Redlining's adverse association persists even decades after its discontinuation.
Policy guidance offers strategies to shift to value-based health care and payment
The American Heart Association policy statement outlines strategies to shift towards value-based healthcare and payment models, prioritizing equity, patient and clinician experience, and individual and population health. The recommendations include person-centered, equitable, coordinated care that improves outcomes and controls costs.
Evaluation of population-level tobacco control interventions and health outcomes
Smoke-free legislation associated with significant reductions in morbidity and mortality related to cardiovascular disease and respiratory system disease. Accelerating the implementation of smoke-free laws is crucial for protecting populations against smoking-related harm.
Not eating enough of these six healthy foods is associated with higher cardiovascular disease and deaths globally
A large-scale global study found that consuming six key foods in combination is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The study recommends an average daily intake of two to three servings of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, as well as moderate amounts of fish and whole-fat dairy.
Association of population well-being with cardiovascular outcomes
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has discovered a significant association between high population well-being and reduced cardiovascular disease mortality. The research, led by Erica S. Spatz, found that improved well-being can serve as a focus for advancing cardiovascular health.
Serious monkey business: Chimpanzee heart check via digital camera
A team of researchers from the University of South Australia used a contact-free technique to extract cardiac signals from chimpanzees by filming subtle movements in their face or thorax. The study found that chimpanzees show similar responses to human babies when experiencing fear, excitement, or joy, and that nature scenes can calm t...
Loneliness linked with elevated risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with diabetes
Patients with diabetes are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease and loneliness, which can lead to a higher likelihood of developing heart disease. A recent study found that loneliness was associated with a 11% higher risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those with lower loneliness scores.
Vitamin D supplements may reduce risk of serious cardiovascular events in older people
A large clinical trial found that monthly vitamin D supplements reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks by 9% in older adults. The study involved over 21,000 Australians aged 60-84 and showed a significant reduction in heart attack rates, but no difference in stroke rates.
Cholesterol passport for adolescents to halt the world’s deadliest disease – atherosclerosis
A new proposal suggests adopting an 'adolescent cholesterol passport' to prevent atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death worldwide. The tool would involve regular cholesterol screenings starting at age two, with the goal of detecting familial hypercholesterolemia and other genetic conditions early on.
A new center for cardiovascular communication research
The new institute will integrate vascular biomedicine, systems biology, and heart research to investigate mechanisms of interorgan communication and detect pathologies earlier. It aims to accelerate translation of findings into clinical applications.
Bempedoic acid for primary prevention of cardiovascular events in statin-intolerant patients
A new study published in JAMA found that bempedoic acid can reduce major adverse cardiovascular events in high-risk primary prevention patients who cannot tolerate recommended doses of statins. The treatment has the potential to improve outcomes for these patients, providing a new option for primary prevention.
Risk of cardiovascular events among patients with head and neck cancer
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients face substantial burden of uncontrolled cardiovascular risk factors, leading to increased risk of stroke and heart attack. Modifiable CV risk factor control is crucial in reducing the risk of adverse cardiovascular events and death among these patients.
Carotene-rich diet linked to lower fat levels in arteries
A study of 200 people aged 50-70 found that higher carotene levels in the blood were associated with lower atherosclerosis and reduced cardiovascular disease risk. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in carotenes, may help lower the risk of heart disease.