A recent study found that Canadians have good overall health, with a high level of health-adjusted life expectancy. The leading causes of death and disability are noncommunicable diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The study also shows an aging population, with people over 65 years outnumbering younger Canadians.
Researchers found that former smokers who quit within the last five years reduced their cardiovascular disease risk by 38 percent compared to those who continued to smoke. It took 16 years since quitting for former smokers' risk of cardiovascular disease to return to the level of never smokers.
Researchers studied 547 sexual minority women, finding that those with increased trauma severity were more likely to experience anxiety, depression, overeating, diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. The study suggests healthcare providers should screen for trauma as a cardiovascular disease risk factor in this population.
Researchers found that people with high levels of chronic noise exposure had a greater than three-fold risk of cardiovascular events. Chronic noise exposure fuels blood vessel inflammation, promoting cardiac risk.
A plant-based diet has been shown to improve psychological wellbeing, reduce risk factors for type 2 diabetes, and slow nerve damage. Participants who followed a vegan diet lost nearly twice as much weight and had lower blood glucose levels compared to those on other diets.
A new study proposes a human-specific understanding of disease mechanisms and novel microphysiological tools to create more predictive laboratory models. This approach holds promise for improving translation in drug discovery and reducing the use of experimental animals.
A study suggests that heart patients should interrupt sedentary time every 20 minutes with a 7 minute bout of light physical activity to expend 770 kcal, associated with a lower risk of premature death. Regular physical activity is key to achieving a healthy life.
A study found that over a quarter of healthy six-year-old children have metabolic risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Insulin resistance and waist circumference were stronger markers than body mass index.
Researchers discovered that midazolam, a commonly used anesthetic, alters cardiac circadian biology and increases susceptibility to myocardial ischemia. Targeting the circadian rhythm protein Period 2 (PER2) with nobiletin, a flavonoid found in citrus peels, provides significant cardioprotection against MI in a mouse model.
The NIH has awarded a $3.3-million grant to Carnegie Institution scientist Steven Farber to identify new pharmaceuticals for combatting cardiovascular disease. Using genetically engineered zebrafish with glowing lipoproteins, the team aims to find compounds that lower ApoB levels and reduce disease risk.
The updated C-CHANGE guideline offers enhanced management of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and high cholesterol. The new guidelines provide a single set of best practices for physicians across Canada.
A new study using carotid artery MRI shows that measurements of wall thickness can improve cardiovascular disease risk assessment. The technique offers a more accurate predictor of cardiovascular events than ultrasound-based intima-media thickness (IMT) tests, especially for stroke risk.
A new study published in The Lancet found that albiglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events by 22% in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. This result is comparable to traditional cardiovascular drugs.
A new study finds that delayed pregnancy may increase cardiovascular disease risk in both women and their children, with boys at higher risk. Researchers also found sex-specific differences in health risks of the offspring, highlighting the importance of assessing cardiovascular health during pregnancy.
A simple measurement of abdominal obesity index (ABOI) has been developed to determine central obesity, focusing on abdominal fat content rather than total body weight or shape. ABOI can be calculated by measuring abdominal circumference and chest circumference, providing a more accurate assessment of abdominal obesity.
A new analysis published in The Lancet found that more than half of all countries are not on track to meet the UN target to reduce premature deaths from non-communicable diseases by a third by 2030. For women aged 30-70, only 9% of countries are on track, and for men, it's just 3%. The study highlights the need for policy changes to ad...
A new study led by the University of East Anglia found that following a Mediterranean-style diet high in fish, fruits, and nuts, and low in meat and dairy, may reduce stroke risk in women over 40, with a 22% reduction in risk compared to men who showed no significant reduction.
Researchers found that counties with higher Hispanic populations faced more economic disadvantages, lack of access to quality health care, and language barriers. This led to higher mortality rates from cardiovascular disease among both Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites.
A scoping review found that digital game interventions improved exercise capacity and energy expenditure in patients with cardiovascular disease. Despite this, the use of digital games did not affect quality of life or self-efficacy.
Researchers found that targeting IL-1β reduced risk of gout attacks by half, with no change in serum urate levels, suggesting an independent mechanism. The study's findings could lead to new therapeutic avenues for both heart disease and crystal diseases like gout.
The American College of Cardiology emphasizes that combating obesity in the US will require individual and societal changes to reduce cardiovascular risks. Implementing policy-level interventions, increasing physical activity, and promoting healthier diets are key aspects of this approach.
A recent Finnish study found that adolescents with better aerobic fitness have more compliant arteries than their lower-fit peers, suggesting a link between anaerobic threshold and arterial stiffness. Regular physical activity starting in childhood may be the first line in preventing early arterial aging.
A global observational study found that consuming three servings of dairy per day is associated with lower rates of cardiovascular disease and mortality. The study's findings support the potential benefits of dairy consumption for mortality and cardiovascular disease prevention, particularly in low-income countries.
Research by UPNA finds that muscle strength training can reverse age-related muscle loss and improve cardiovascular health. The study emphasizes the importance of considering physical exercise as a treatment for cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers identify β-Hydroxybutyrate as a molecule with anti-aging effects on the vascular system. The compound can delay cellular aging and promote cell division, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of human diseases such as cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Apolipoprotein A-IV increases after consuming foods high in unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, and is associated with lower cardiovascular disease rates. It acts as an inhibitory factor for platelets, reducing thrombosis risk by blocking platelet aggregation.
A new AI-powered tool, HEAL, analyzes genome sequences and electronic health records to predict individual risk for developing abdominal aortic aneurysm. The tool may one day help diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases such as AAA, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular conditions.
A recent study found that statins do not reduce cardiovascular disease or death in healthy individuals aged 75 and older. However, in people with type 2 diabetes aged 75-84 years, statins were associated with a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease and death. The protective effect declined after age 85.
Researchers found a strong seasonal pattern in online search activity for cardiovascular disease, with higher volumes during winter months. US states with higher CVD mortality also showed increased search interest compared to regions with lower CVD mortality rates.
New research highlights the risks of cardiovascular disease in even the fittest middle-aged athletes, who often don't exhibit symptoms. Regular health check-ups and moderate exercise are crucial for prevention, according to study findings published in BMJ Open.
Researchers will examine connections between cardiovascular disease and brain health in a 3,000-participant study. The study aims to determine whether heart health explains increased incidence of Alzheimer's disease among different racial and ethnic groups.
A comprehensive analysis found associations between exposure to toxic metals and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. The study's authors call for attention to metals as a significant source of cardiovascular risk, highlighting the need for population-wide strategies to minimize exposure.
A comprehensive analysis of the evidence found exposure to toxic metals like arsenic, lead, copper, and cadmium to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that these metals may be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, even at relatively low levels of exposure.
A new rapid imaging protocol has been developed and tested in Peru, quickly and cheaply diagnosing heart ailments in patients. The technique, which took 18 minutes and cost $150 per patient, revealed important changes in patient care and satisfied all imaging needs in 89% of patients.
A 40-year study found that vacations can prolong life by reducing stress. Men who took longer vacations had lower mortality rates than those with shorter vacation times, suggesting that stress reduction is key to cardiovascular health.
A new study suggests that a heart-healthy diet may consist of foods previously thought to be detrimental, such as dairy products and meat. The research, which analyzed data from over 218,000 people across five continents, found that consuming these foods was associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease and death.
Scientists developed an updated international approach to identifying a healthy diet by analyzing data from large global studies involving over 240,000 people from more than 50 countries. The new guidelines suggest higher amounts of fruit, vegetables, nuts, and fish in the diet to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
A study of 200 Irish adults found that many struggle to understand food labels, particularly men and those at risk for cardiovascular disease. The survey revealed gaps in consumers' use and interpretation of nutritional information, highlighting the need for improved public education and enhanced labeling.
Researchers argue that sugar is not responsible for obesity and metabolic diseases, citing evidence from multiple domains. Experts also highlight the importance of physical activity in determining metabolic health. The debate raises questions about the role of sugar in modern diets and whether restrictive recommendations are effective.
A study of 341,730 Chinese adults found long-term use of solid fuels for cooking associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular death. Switching to electricity or gas reduced the negative impact of previous solid fuel use.
A recent study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that sleeping 5 hours or less per night is associated with a doubled risk of cardiovascular disease. Men who slept five or fewer hours had twice the risk of developing a major cardiovascular event compared to those who slept seven to eight hours.
A recent study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that sleeping six to eight hours a night is most beneficial for heart health. The research, which analyzed data from over one million adults, suggests that both short and long sleepers have an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease or stroke.
A new scientific study reveals that there is no safe level of drinking alcohol, with nearly 3 million deaths globally attributed to alcohol use in 2016. The study finds massive health risks associated with alcohol consumption, including premature death, cancer, and cardiovascular problems.
A study published in European Heart Journal reveals that air pollution is a significant contributor to cardiovascular diseases, with particulate matter playing a key role. The review article highlights the importance of reducing emissions from traffic, industry, and agriculture to mitigate the negative effects on vascular function.
Researchers found that young, healthy individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol are still vulnerable to cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease, even with a low 10-year risk. Lifestyle interventions and cholesterol-lowering medication may be necessary for these individuals to achieve healthy LDL levels.
Research reveals women with type 1 diabetes diagnosed before age 10 experience significantly reduced life expectancy, with heart attacks occurring 90 times more frequently than in non-diabetic individuals.
People with younger-onset type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of cardiovascular complications and premature death. The study found that those diagnosed before the age of 10 had a 30-times greater risk of serious cardiovascular outcomes than those in the general population.
A new study of over 90,000 people in 18 countries found that sodium consumption is not associated with increased health risks for most communities, except those with very high salt intake above 5g/day. Communities with high average levels of sodium intake were mostly seen in China.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that older adults who spend less time sitting and more time engaged in light to vigorous physical activity benefit from healthier levels of heart and vessel disease markers. The results showed that increased physical activity was particularly beneficial for...
Regular sauna baths are associated with a reduced risk of vascular diseases, such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders. Sauna bathing also alleviates conditions like skin diseases, arthritis, headache, and flu.
A team of researchers found that LYVE-1 macrophages protect arteries from becoming stiff by interacting with smooth muscle cells and reducing collagen production. The protein is responsible for binding to hyaluronan, facilitating the degradation of collagen.
A new Stanford study finds that healthy individuals often experience significant fluctuations in blood sugar levels, similar to those seen in people with diabetes. The researchers used continuous glucose monitoring devices to track participants' glucose levels over two weeks and identified distinct 'glucotypes' based on spike intensity.
The Cardiovascular Disease Population Risk Tool (CVDPoRT) uses a 'big data' approach to accurately predict an individual's risk of hospitalization or death from cardiovascular disease within the next five years. The calculator also provides heart age, an easy-to-understand measure of heart health.
Lysosomal phospholipase A2, a unique enzyme, interacts with various substrates and modifies phospholipids. Researchers identified Asp13 as a crucial catalytic residue contributing to the enzyme's properties. In contrast, a study on chronic kidney disease found no strong correlation between HDL protein content and cardiovascular risk.
A new study developed equations to predict lifetime risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in the Chinese population. The models incorporated various risk factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and geographic region, providing personalized estimates.
Legumes have been shown to successfully reduce coronary heart disease and improve blood glucose levels. Additionally, moderate coffee consumption is associated with lower risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. A predominantly plant-based diet with limited animal products appears to be beneficial for heart health.
A study of 1,138 postmenopausal women found that higher HDL cholesterol did not lower cardiovascular disease risk, but rather masked a significant heart disease risk. Small HDL particles were beneficial for these women, while large particles increased risk.
A large study found that consuming fish was associated with a reduced risk of mortality from all causes, as well as specific chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory disease, and Alzheimer's. Higher intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids also showed significant protective effects.
A nationally representative study found that cardiovascular mortality rates increased rapidly in rural India and surpassed urban areas between 2000 and 2015. Younger adults, particularly those born after 1970, are at the highest risk of death due to heart problems caused by narrowing of the heart's arteries.
Sekar Kathiresan receives the 2018 Curt Stern Award for his groundbreaking work identifying genetic factors underlying cardiovascular disease risk. His research has led to the development of medicines that mimic protective mutations, reducing heart attack risk.