Research on diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Covers microvascular imaging, light exposure, cardiac imaging anxiety, and sex differences in risk.
Research suggests that limiting sedentary time to eight hours and increasing light physical activity to seven hours a day can reduce the risk of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. The study found incremental associations between more physical activity and lower risk of developing preeclampsia or gestational hypertension.
Regular morning exercise is associated with lower rates of coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and obesity compared to later-day exercise. Morning exercise timing may be an underappreciated aspect of cardiometabolic health.
A study of over 340,000 British adults found that low to moderate wine consumption was associated with a significantly lower risk of death compared to spirits, beer, and cider. Moderate wine drinkers had a 21% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, while even low intake of spirits, beer, or cider was linked to a 9% higher risk.
Consuming ultra-processed foods daily is associated with a higher risk of adverse cardiac events, particularly among Black Americans. The study found that each additional serving increases the risk by over 5%, with Black Americans seeing an amplified risk compared to other racial groups.
A recent study found that people with atherosclerotic heart disease who received the shingles vaccine had nearly half the rate of serious cardiac events compared to those who did not get vaccinated. The vaccine was associated with significant reductions in cardiovascular risk, including heart attacks, strokes, and death.
Researchers found that measures of blood vessel health from routine blood pressure readings can identify adults at increased risk for dementia. Vascular aging patterns may provide meaningful insight into future dementia risk, and managing vascular health earlier in life may influence long-term brain health.
A study of 2,000+ participants found nine specific gut microbe metabolites associated with coronary heart disease risk. The researchers call for further research into these molecules as potential novel treatments.
The American College of Cardiology will host the New Orleans Health Fair on March 21, 2026, offering free screenings, health education, and early detection for cardiovascular diseases. The event aims to improve community heart health and provide equitable care.
A Chinese study reports a 100% technical and clinical success rate for robot-assisted brain angiography, with median procedure times 11 minutes shorter than manual angiography. No added radiation or complications were observed, showcasing the feasibility and safety of the YDHB-NS01 system
The updated guideline consolidates evidence-based recommendations for managing dyslipidemias, offering a comprehensive approach to lower risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The guideline recommends earlier intervention through healthy lifestyle changes and considers the use of a new cardiovascular disease risk calculator, P...
A new RNA therapy has been developed to enhance the heart's own ability to protect and repair itself after a heart attack. The therapy, which involves injecting particles into the arm, significantly reduced scarring and improved heart function in lab experiments, offering a potential breakthrough for heart patients.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that power outages in the US are associated with increased emergency hospital visits for older adults, particularly for cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The study estimated that 4,246 additional hospitalizations occurred in 2018 among adults over 65 due to power outages.
Researchers found elevated pTau levels in individuals with transthyretin amyloidosis and immunoglobulin light-chain amyloidosis, suggesting a new diagnostic approach for systemic amyloidosis. The findings may facilitate earlier detection and help confirm suspected cases.
Women with cardiometabolic risk factors such as type 2 diabetes and high waist circumference face a higher risk of liver fibrosis, with rates increasing 11-fold and 2.8-fold compared to men. The study highlights the importance of managing these risk factors for liver health beyond heart disease prevention.
A large cohort study found that people using anticholinergic medications, commonly prescribed for urinary incontinence and anxiety, have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The cumulative use of these drugs was associated with an increased risk of heart failure and arrhythmias.
A study published in European Heart Journal found that nearly half of hospitalised heart failure patients are readmitted within a year, with the risk of death also remaining high. Patients with severely reduced heart function face the highest risk, highlighting the need for careful follow-up and tailored care.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement projects that nearly 6 in 10 US women will have some type of cardiovascular disease by 2050, driven by rising rates in high blood pressure and other health factors. The economic burden is expected to be at least $200 billion annually.
A new collaborative clinician education program will equip cardiologists and OB-GYNs with practical tools to identify and treat cardiovascular risk in midlife women. The program aims to close treatment gaps and provide proactive, integrated care during menopause.
A nationwide study found that adolescents and young adults with prior cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) are at a higher risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. The study suggests that women with prior HSIL should be more closely monitored for cardiovascular disease and prevention strategies should be imple...
A traditional Chinese mind-body practice called Baduanjin was proven to lower blood pressure as effectively as brisk walking in a large randomized clinical trial. Practiced for centuries, Baduanjin is a low-to-moderate-intensity routine that requires no equipment and can be performed in various settings.
A nationwide cohort study found that chronic kidney disease significantly heightens mortality risk, even at moderate levels, and exceeds traditional metabolic risk factors. Maintaining renal function and early detection of CKD are critical for reducing both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.
A special issue of Circulation highlights progress in women's cardiovascular health, featuring sex-specific research on prevention, diagnosis and management. The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women initiative supports over 200,000 healthcare professionals with educational tools to improve women's health.
A new position statement from CSANZ and ACRA highlights telehealth as a critical tool for increasing access to quality cardiovascular care. The guidance provides best practice guidance for safe use by clinicians while emphasizing patient-centered, culturally inclusive multidisciplinary care.
A comprehensive scientific review highlights pecans' positive effects on cardiovascular health, including improved lipid metabolism and antioxidant defenses. While findings on blood sugar control are mixed, the review suggests pecans may support better diet quality and satiety.
The Merck Foundation grant will support a new primary care initiative focused on the cardiovascular health of formerly incarcerated Black men in Chicago. The program aims to provide integrated, comprehensive care that addresses high blood pressure and reduces the risk for heart attacks and strokes.
Researchers developed smart 4D-printed vascular stents that expand naturally at body temperature, eliminating the need for external heating. The stents balance mechanical flexibility and radial strength, demonstrating long-term biomechanical compliance.
The Family Heart Foundation, led by Matt Hasselbeck, aims to educate Americans about the risks of high LDL cholesterol and its connection to early heart disease. The campaign promotes free at-home screenings and offers support for individuals to protect themselves and their families from cardiovascular disease.
A study by Florida Atlantic University found that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are associated with a 47% higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers analyzed data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and found that those consuming high amounts of UPFs had a significant increase in heart attack and stroke ...
A new study found semaglutide to be an effective treatment for preventing secondary cardiovascular disease in US adults. The medication meets conventional thresholds when used alone, but its cost-effectiveness is improved with combination therapy.
Post-stroke spasticity affects an estimated 30-80% of stroke survivors, causing abnormal muscle tightness and involuntary spasms. Earlier diagnosis and timely intervention may improve functional outcomes and reduce long-term disability, according to the new scientific statement.
A new randomized clinical trial found that training the less-impaired arm significantly improved movement coordination, speed and control in chronic stroke survivors. The study showed that motor skills in the less-affected arm can be improved even years after a stroke occurs.
A new poll by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine reveals that 56% of Americans would consider trying plant-based alternatives like buffalo cauliflower bites during the Super Bowl. Plant-based meals are lower in fat, high in fiber, and rich in antioxidants, reducing the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
The FIU-Florida Heart Research Foundation Center for Innovation in Cardiovascular Health brings together experts in various fields to uncover the fundamental drivers of cardiovascular disease. The center will focus on AI-powered diagnostics, regenerative tissue technologies, and workforce development.
Researchers found that patients seen by cardiologists had lower mortality rates and fewer serious heart problems, including heart attack, sudden failure, or irregular heartbeat. The study suggests close teamwork between surgical and heart teams can improve outcomes after major surgery.
A new study found that men's coronary heart disease risk begins to diverge from women's in the mid-30s, with differences emerging as early as age 50.5 versus 57.5 years. This suggests that heart disease prevention and screening should start earlier in adulthood for men.
A recent study analyzed data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study and found that men developed coronary heart disease 10 years before women. The study indicates that this sex gap remains, with men having a higher cumulative incidence of cardiovascular disease and its subtypes.
A new scientific review summarizes 12 human clinical trials on the cardiometabolic effects of wild blueberries, finding improvements in blood vessel function and beneficial changes to the gut microbiome. Regular consumption of one cup per day may support overall health benefits.
A quarter of pregnant patients suffering stroke symptoms were misdiagnosed due to overlooked warning signs, according to a new study. The researchers highlight the need for better clinician education and decision-support tools to improve maternal health outcomes.
Researchers have found a nonlinear dose-response relationship between exercise and hepatic steatosis, indicating that a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises can produce clinically meaningful improvements. The study suggests that exercising above 130 MET-min/week can lead to significant reductions in hepatic steatosis.
American Heart Association names Indiana University head coach Curt Cignetti national college football Coach of the Year, marking a dramatic turnaround in his second season. The award honors exceptional leadership and excellence, with proceeds benefiting heart health research and awareness.
Researchers found structural and functional differences between mitral annular calcification and rheumatic mitral stenosis, which may lead to inaccurate diagnoses and treatment. The study suggests using disease-specific diagnostic criteria and management guidelines for patients with MAC-related stenosis.
The number of heart disease and stroke deaths in the US has declined, but these conditions still account for over a quarter of all deaths. The latest data from the American Heart Association shows that fewer people are dying from any cause, with death rates improving, but cardiovascular disease remains a major concern.
Researchers identify circulating extracellular vesicles produced in diseased kidneys as the culprit behind toxicity in the heart. The discovery could lead to the development of a blood test to identify patients at high risk for serious heart problems and novel treatments to prevent and treat heart failure.
A statewide partnership in Michigan led to a significant increase in patients receiving follow-up imaging after aortic aneurysm repair. This resulted in a reduced likelihood of dying within one year of surgery and improved detection of early problems that can lead to device failure or future complications.
Fine particulate matter and ozone exposure independently associated with poorer cardiac health outcomes in breast cancer patients treated with cardiotoxic therapy. Environmental exposure modifications are crucial to mitigate cardiovascular disease risk.
Research highlights racial-ethnic differences in pregnancy-related high blood pressure risk, with Pacific Islanders and Filipinos more likely to develop a hypertensive disorder. Early identification and treatment can help prevent serious complications for both pregnant individuals and their infants.
A recent review of bamboo consumption found promising health benefits, including improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation, and antioxidant activity. However, caution is advised due to potential risks associated with raw or improperly prepared bamboo.
A Korea University study successfully mimics heart mechanics in organoids using three-dimensional magnetic torque, enhancing cardiac differentiation, maturation, and vascularization. This breakthrough could improve drug safety testing by providing more accurate human-relevant models for cardiotoxicity screening.
The inaugural JACC Cardiovascular Statistics report examines five major CVD risk factors and conditions, revealing persistent disparities by race, geography and socioeconomic status. The report identifies critical gaps in data and opportunities for innovation to improve US heart health.
A new study found that light intensity activities, such as walking or household chores, were associated with a lower risk of death for people with CKM syndrome. The researchers used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to compare activity level duration for each CKM syndrome stage.
A cohort study found that very high lipoprotein(a) levels increased the 30-year risk of cardiovascular disease among healthy women. Screening for elevated lipoprotein(a) may be warranted in the general population.
The American College of Cardiology welcomes the inclusion of whole fruits and vegetables, limiting added sugars and saturated fats in the new guidelines. The ACC encourages clinicians to discuss practical, culturally appropriate healthy eating options with their patients.
A comprehensive review reveals the therapeutic effects of Borago officinalis, a plant with diverse compounds targeting inflammation and metabolic pathways. The study highlights its potential in treating cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
A large cohort study found that statins significantly reduce the risk of death and major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes. The findings challenge long-standing uncertainty about whether patients at low risk benefit from preventive statin therapy, suggesting that the drugs may have broader protective value.
In a prespecified exploratory analysis of the SELECT randomized clinical trial, semaglutide demonstrated significant reductions in hospital admissions and overall time spent in hospital. This finding suggests that semaglutide has broader health benefits for patients with obesity and established cardiovascular disease.
A new study found that choosing ARB drugs from the start can lead to better adherence and improved cardiovascular health. The study, which analyzed data from 340,000 patients, showed that ARB treatment resulted in fewer side effects and higher persistence rates compared to other drug classes.
A Finnish study found that adults who remained physically active throughout adulthood had a lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome at age 61. Increasing physical activity later in life, especially muscle-strengthening exercises, also mitigated risks.
Adults born with heart defects are at increased risk of cardiac complications as they age. The new guideline provides recommendations for monitoring, counseling, and treating Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), including mental health assessment and physical activity guidance. It also emphasizes the importance of access to ongoing speciali...
A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology suggests that strong and supportive relationships can improve heart health for individuals with cardiovascular disease. The review highlights the need to include intimate partners in cardiac rehabilitation programs to support long-term heart health and quality of life.
New research from the American Heart Association finds a strong association between gum disease and increased risk of heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and cardiometabolic health conditions. The study suggests that effective prevention and treatment of gum disease could potentially decrease the burden of cardiov...