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Vitamin D reduces mortality

A Norwegian study found that individuals with normal vitamin D levels can reduce their risk of death from cardiovascular disease by up to 30%. The optimal amount of vitamin D varies from person to person, and measuring levels is advised for those who have experienced cardiovascular disease.

SourceThe University of Bergen·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 1, 2018

Is obesity associated with having a shorter life?

A recent study published in JAMA Network found that obesity is associated with a significantly shorter lifespan and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In contrast, being overweight was not linked to a reduced risk of death but did increase the likelihood of developing CVD at a younger age.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2018

'Obesity paradox' debunked

Research debunks the 'obesity paradox' by revealing that maintaining a normal weight can postpone cardiovascular disease and reduce overall risk. Normal weight individuals live longer and have a greater proportion of life with cardiovascular disease compared to overweight or obese individuals.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Cardiology·DateFeb 28, 2018

Erectile dysfunction is red flag for silent early cardiovascular disease

A new study reveals a significant association between erectile dysfunction and impaired endothelial function, as well as increased carotid intimal medial thickness, indicating an early manifestation of atherosclerosis. The findings support a more aggressive CV disease risk assessment and management for persons with erectile dysfunction.

SourceSAGE·JournalVascular Medicine·DateDec 15, 2017

Centralized population health coordinators improve care for patients with chronic disease

A centralized chronic disease management program produced significant improvements in patient outcomes for those with diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. Practices with central population health coordinators showed greater improvements in testing and clinical targets compared to those without coordinators.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateDec 12, 2017

Dog ownership linked to lower mortality

A Swedish study of over 3.4 million individuals found that dog owners had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. Dog ownership was particularly protective for singles, with a 33% reduced risk of death and 11% reduced risk of myocardial infarction.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 17, 2017

Eating regular variety of nuts associated with lower risk of heart disease

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that eating regular variety of nuts, including peanuts and walnuts, was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Participants who consumed five or more servings of nuts per week had a significant reduction in cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 13, 2017

Gestational diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women with a history of gestational diabetes were at a modestly higher risk of cardiovascular disease. However, adhering to a healthy lifestyle appeared to help mitigate this risk in younger women, particularly those who were predominantly white and followed healthy habits over time.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateOct 16, 2017

Healthy lifestyle reduces cardiovascular risk after gestational diabetes, NIH study shows

Researchers analyzed data from over 90,000 women and found that adopting a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising moderately, and not smoking can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease after gestational diabetes. Women who failed to adopt a healthy lifestyle had a 43-percent-higher risk for cardiovascular disease.

The Lancet: In low and middle income countries, 3-4 servings of fruit, vegetables and legumes per day may be more realistic target for health

A new study published in The Lancet found that eating 3-4 servings of fruit, vegetables, and legumes per day (375-500g) achieves similar benefits against mortality risk as higher portions. This target is more affordable for people in low- and middle-income countries, providing a potential solution to food security issues.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 29, 2017

Research lacking when it comes to heart disease in prison populations

A recent study highlights the gaps in knowledge about cardiovascular disease among incarcerated and released populations, with limited research on factors contributing to heart disease. The report identifies areas for further study, including how prisoners receive care and treatment, and the relationship between stress and coping behav...

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJul 25, 2017

Exercise packs a punch against inflammation

Physical activity has strong anti-inflammatory properties, playing a crucial role in chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Exercise stimulates cytokines IL-6 and IL-10, inhibiting TNF-α and limiting IL-1β signalling to combat inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2017

Common strength 'genes' identified for first time

A study led by the University of Cambridge identified sixteen common genetic variants linked to muscle strength, revealing biological insights into complex traits. The findings suggest that genetic variation in genes related to muscle function may influence differences in strength in the general population.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 12, 2017