Research on diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Covers microvascular imaging, light exposure, cardiac imaging anxiety, and sex differences in risk.
Dr. JoAnn E. Manson is recognized for her pioneering efforts in understanding the role of menopausal estrogen therapy in cardiovascular disease. Her extensive research career has led to significant advancements in population health promotion and prevention of cardiovascular disease in women.
Air pollution and noise exposure are linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers recommend reducing air pollution limits to prevent thousands of excess deaths. They also suggest strategies for mitigating road traffic and aircraft noise, such as quieter tires and better flight routing.
Researchers have developed AI algorithms to decipher waveform bio signals from the heart and brain, identifying individuals at risk for cardiovascular death. By analyzing these signals during sleep, they can detect hidden signatures indicating homeostatic imbalance or early onset of potentially fatal diseases.
Research found machine learning and statistical techniques have similar performance at the population level but vary substantially in individual-level risk predictions. Machine learning models often ignore censoring, leading to biased predictions.
A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that mothers' cardiovascular health significantly affects their children's risk of developing heart disease. Offspring of mothers with ideal cardiovascular health lived nine more years without cardiovascular disease compared to those with poor health.
Researchers found that quitting smoking at any age reduces excess risk of premature death from cardiovascular disease by about 90%. Those who quit between ages 15 to 34 had about the same risk as peers who never smoked, while those who quit later had significantly higher risks.
A recent study conducted at Columbia University Irving Medical Center suggests that multidisciplinary cardio-obstetrics teams can improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce hospital readmission rates among pregnant women with cardiovascular disease. The study found low rates of maternal and fetal complications, as well as a lower rate of ho...
Research from the American College of Cardiology found that high consumption of both sugary and artificially sweetened drinks is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. The study analyzed data from over 104,000 participants and found that consuming either type of beverage increased the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at Oregon State University found that a type of gut bacteria associated with inflammation and cancer can help prevent cardiovascular disease by metabolizing trimethylamine, a compound linked to fatty plaque buildup in arteries. A diet rich in animal-based foods is often considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Glomerular diseases significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, affecting blood cleaning units in the kidneys. A study analyzing 2000-2012 data found a 2.5-times higher risk compared to the general population.
Researchers developed a risk-scoring calculation that adds blood and urine measures of kidney disease to the current standard method for assessing cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that adding these measures can result in large increases in cardiovascular disease-risk estimates among patients with severe kidney disease.
A new study found that hospitalization rates for acute cardiovascular disease events increased by 1.62 times after the 2016 presidential election, suggesting that sociopolitical stress may trigger CVD events. The findings were consistent across sex, age, and race/ethnicity groups.
Researchers analyzed health records of nearly 3 million US adults before and after the 2016 presidential election, finding higher acute CVD hospitalization rates following the election. The study suggests that sociopolitical stress may be a contributing factor to increased risk of acute cardiovascular disease.
A large international study of COVID-19 patients found that pre-existing conditions such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes can increase a patient's risk of dying from the virus. The study, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that these chronic conditions are a warning sign for a higher risk of death.
Research suggests that pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, and diabetes in pregnancy are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease in later life. Women who experienced early menarche, polycystic ovary syndrome, or low birth weight also showed an increased risk of heart disease.
A new study suggests genetic risk scoring of lipoprotein(a) can accurately predict atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, comparable to directly measured levels. This could help physicians identify candidates for treatment or clinical trials, particularly those using direct-to-consumer genetic testing kits.
Research suggests that having a spouse in the ICU increases the risk of cardiovascular disease events and hospitalization within a few weeks. The study found that spouses faced significant psychological stress, which may lead to increased cardiovascular risks.
Researchers used computer analysis of CT scans to identify women at high risk of cardiovascular disease, with those having the highest CAC score showing a 3.7 times greater risk. The study showed that treating breast cancer means finding a balance between tackling tumors and minimizing side effects, including cardiovascular disease.
A study published in The BMJ found that women with irregular or long menstrual cycles are at a greater risk of premature death. The researchers suggest considering the menstrual cycle as a vital sign of general health for women throughout their reproductive lifespan.
A Canadian study of over 290,000 children found that those exposed to diabetes in the womb had a 50-200% higher risk of developing heart disease before age 35. The study also discovered that these children were more likely to develop high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
A new study suggests that women experiencing two or more moderate to severe menopause symptoms are at a significantly higher risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke. The research found no association with other health outcomes, such as cancer risk, when supplementation of calcium and vitamin D was investigated.
Researchers found a significant decline in cardiovascular disease prevalence among high-income individuals in the US from 1999 to 2016. The study also revealed disparities in cardiovascular disease burden by income level within the US population.
A study from the UK reveals a significant reduction in diagnoses of common conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health issues during the COVID-19 lockdown. The findings suggest that many cases may have gone undetected, undiagnosed, and untreated due to reduced healthcare engagement.
Researchers found that having elevated cholesterol during teens or early twenties increases risk of heart attack, stroke or cardiovascular event in middle age. Regular cholesterol screenings starting in early adulthood may help reduce this risk.
A new study on chimpanzees shows that a plant-based diet and substantial opportunities for exercise can reduce cardiovascular disease risk to human levels. Free-ranging chimpanzees in sanctuaries exhibit lower body weight and lipid levels, indicative of better health.
A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings finds that EPA and DHA supplementation reduces multiple types of cardiovascular risk, including coronary heart disease events and fatal heart attacks. The research concludes that increasing omega-3 intake through supplements or diet can contribute to cardioprotection.
A study found a significant association between carotid artery calcification observed in oral panoramic radiographs and chronic coronary artery disease. The researchers also discovered that patients with severe carotid artery calcification had a significantly higher risk of death from cardiovascular diseases.
This observational study found that preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and low birth weight are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. The study controlled for traditional risk factors, highlighting the importance of considering pregnancy outcomes in cardiovascular health.
Researchers estimate that diagnosing and treating high-risk cardiovascular conditions in England could prevent 3.4 million cases of heart disease and stroke, saving £68 billion over 25 years. Identifying undiagnosed diabetes would yield the greatest benefits, while following NICE guidelines would further increase health outcomes.
A nationwide Danish study found that individuals with hospital-diagnosed overweight or obesity have a 60% higher risk of dying compared to the general population. The risk of dying was highest within the first year of diagnosis and remained markedly higher over the whole study period.
A new study found that even in people with normal blood pressure, lowering blood pressure can prevent heart attacks and strokes. The study, which included over 348,000 participants, showed a significant reduction in cardiovascular events with every 5mmHg drop in systolic blood pressure.
Patients with type 2 diabetes experience significant reductions in heart attack risk and mortality when starting medications to prevent cardiovascular disease. The study found that the risk was reduced by 61% for heart attacks and 41% for death over a 15-year period.
A large meta-analysis of 20 studies found that long naps (over 60 minutes) are associated with a 30% greater risk of all-cause death and 34% higher likelihood of cardiovascular disease. Napping can also increase the risk of death in women and older participants.
A new study discovered a significant association between frequent and severe nightmares and cardiovascular disease in veterans. The research found that 32% of veterans reported frequent nightmares and 35% reported severe nightmares, which were linked to heart problems, high blood pressure, and heart attack.
A new study found that ideal cardiovascular health is associated with lower odds for developing ocular diseases, particularly diabetic retinopathy. Practicing healthy lifestyles such as regular physical activity, healthy diet, and maintaining normal weight may also contribute to good eye health.
A study examined whether BPA exposure is associated with the long-term risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cancer, or any cause among U.S. adults. The research found a positive association between BPA exposure and increased mortality risk.
The American College of Cardiology has issued an expert consensus decision pathway to guide the initiation and monitoring of diabetes medications. The new guidance incorporates emerging study data on novel therapies that have been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes patients.
A new study published in Science of the Total Environment confirms that high rice consumption is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality due to arsenic exposure. The research suggests that people may reduce their risk by consuming lower-arsenic rice varieties and eating a balanced diet.
A new study found that while overall US cardiac death rates declined between 1999 and 2017, the pace of decline slowed significantly since 2011. County-level disparities in premature cardiac deaths have grown, with out-of-hospital deaths increasing and socioeconomic factors playing a key role.
A study has identified genetic variants that may contribute to the development of chronic immune and inflammatory diseases, such as type 1 diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, in early childhood. The research found thousands of genetic variants driving gene expression across different conditions.
A new study by Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute found that individuals with cardiovascular disease risk factors who switched to high-deductible health plans did not experience an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. The researchers attributed this finding to the inclusion of low or no out-of-pocket costs for medications and p...
ESC Congress 2020 presented over 400 topics covering the entire spectrum of cardiology, including late-breaking science studies, clinical trials, and ESC Guidelines. The event featured four new Clinical Practice Guidelines launched live during the congress.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found a significant increase in heat-related cardiovascular hospitalizations in Queensland, Australia between 1995 and 2016. The daily mean temperature in the region rose from 20.9°C to 21.7°C, leading to an increase in annual cardiovascular hospitalizations from 46,730 to 123,477.
A review of available evidence suggests that prediabetes is associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease in both the general population and patients with a history of heart disease. Screening and proper management of prediabetes may contribute to primary and secondary prevention of CVD.
A new study found that patients with fewer or milder symptoms have a higher SARS-CoV-2 viral load when diagnosed, which may carry a higher risk of transmission. The study also linked higher viral loads to cancer and cardiovascular disease after adjusting for age.
A new measure of social determinants of health has been developed and validated to predict cardiovascular disease mortality at the county level. The tool uses a multivariable risk score based on seven social determinants, showing better predictive performance than common single-measure area-level indexes.
Research published in the journal Heart found that adults who experienced childhood maltreatment are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, with women being particularly vulnerable. The study analyzed data from 157,311 participants and found associations between all types of maltreatment and increased risk of CVD in both sexes.
A large-scale study found that young women with few eggs collected during IVF treatment have a higher risk of age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. This increased risk is associated with early ovarian ageing and may be linked to an accelerated ageing process.
A recent study suggests that coronary calcium scoring can guide personalized preventive care for individuals with moderate cardiovascular risk. The test identifies calcium deposits in the arteries, indicating atherosclerosis and high heart attack and stroke risk.
A landmark Australian study found even low levels of PM2.5, fine particulate matter in air pollution, increase risk of death from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. For every 1 ug/m3 increase, there is a 2% increased risk of early death, threatening WHO safety standards.
A new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that long-term exposure to fine particulate outdoor air pollution is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. The study analyzed data from 157,436 adults across 21 countries and found a significant link between PM2.5 exposure and cardiovascular events.
A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming lean beef as part of a healthy diet does not negatively impact cardiovascular health or type 2 diabetes risk. The study compared two diets: one with an additional 5.3 ounces of lean beef and another without it, both following US-style eating patterns.
Research found that adhering to four healthy eating patterns reduces cardiovascular disease risk by 14-21%, regardless of racial or ethnic group, and is effective across various subgroups. The study supports current dietary guidelines emphasizing flexible, individualized healthy eating patterns.
Researchers analyzed data from three large study groups with up to 32 years of follow-up to investigate the link between healthy eating patterns and cardiovascular disease risk. The study found that long-term adherence to recommended diets was associated with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke.
Cystatin C provides a more accurate estimate of kidney function than traditional methods, reducing errors in diagnosis and treatment planning. The new cystatin-based eGFR estimation method has the potential to improve patient outcomes for those with cardiovascular disease.
Researchers analyzed EMPA-REG OUTCOME trial data to investigate impact of initial 'eGFR dip' on kidney outcomes. Diuretic use and higher KDIGO risk category were predictive factors for 'eGFR dip', but no significant impact on risk reduction
A study of over 160,000 participants in 27 countries found that women have a more favorable risk pattern for cardiovascular disease. Women had lower blood pressure and healthier blood fat levels, and were less likely to smoke, which contributed to their lower risk of heart disease.
Type 2 diabetes affects American Indians and Alaska Natives at three times the rate of white Americans, linked to higher cardiovascular disease rates. Obesity is prevalent, with 30-40% of American Indians having obesity, which increases risk factors for heart disease.
A new study published in Experimental Physiology found that fire service instructors experience higher levels of inflammation, which may lead to chronic health problems. The researchers suggest limiting their exposure to nine times per month to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A diet rich in fish omega-3 fatty acids modulates lipoprotein particles, reducing triglycerides transported by any type of lipoprotein. The study found that increased consumption of LDL cholesterol from fish is associated with larger, less atherogenic LDL particles.