Research on diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Covers microvascular imaging, light exposure, cardiac imaging anxiety, and sex differences in risk.
A new study published in The Lancet suggests that reducing six modifiable risk factors could prevent over 37 million premature deaths from non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Meeting the targets for these risk factors would reduce mortality by 22% in men and 19% in women.
Achieving globally-agreed targets for six important health risks between 2010 and 2025 can reduce deaths caused by the big-four chronic diseases: cancers, diabetes, lung disease, and cardiovascular disease. The study finds that targeting smoking and blood pressure will lead to the largest health benefits.
A £3 million project aims to develop nanoparticles for early detection and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The researchers will use surface enhanced Raman scattering to quantify vascular inflammation and deliver drugs directly to diseased vessels.
Researchers found subclinical disease in half of the studied firefighters, but traditional methods were insufficient, requiring specialized imaging for detection. The study suggests a high risk of cardiovascular disease among firefighters, emphasizing the need for early intervention and prevention strategies.
Researchers found obese patients with no heart disease have greater risk of future disease due to early plaque buildup in the arteries. The study's lead author emphasizes the importance of counseling obese individuals about their risks and providing tips for achieving a healthy weight.
A daily serving of pulses can significantly lower LDL 'bad' cholesterol by five per cent, translating to a five to six per cent reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease. North Americans would need to more than double their current pulse intake to achieve this benefit.
A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that lifestyle interventions can significantly reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and all-causes among individuals with impaired glucose tolerance. The 23-year follow-up of the Da Qing Diabetes Prevention Study showed a cumulative incidence of death...
A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension found that most Americans' daily sodium intake is associated with better health outcomes than current CDC recommendations, which are now viewed as excessively low. The ideal range is between 2,645-4,945 mg/day, where health outcomes remain favorable.
Researchers have identified two new protein markers, GlycA and GlycB, which are associated with inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels of these proteins were found in nearly half of the patients who died or suffered an adverse event during follow-up.
A large study found that postmenopausal women who consume two or more diet drinks per day are 30% more likely to have a cardiovascular event and 50% more likely to die from related disease. The association persists even after adjusting for other risk factors.
A new analysis found that using risk equations can help guide statin therapy for heart disease patients, suggesting they are helpful for clinical decision making. The study also suggests the Pooled Cohort risk equations are valid for informing clinical management decisions.
People who are married have lower rates of several cardiovascular diseases compared to those who are single, divorced, or widowed. Married individuals were found to be 5% less likely to have any vascular disease and had lower odds of other vascular conditions.
A large-scale survey of 3.5 million Americans found that married people have a significantly lower risk of heart disease than singles, divorced, or widowed individuals. The study also revealed age-related differences in cardiovascular disease risk among married couples.
Research suggests that women with four or more children are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, with a two-fold higher risk of abnormal coronary artery calcium scores and aortic wall thickness. This association remains even after adjusting for socioeconomic factors, education, race, and known risk factors.
A pooled analysis of studies found that adherence to the Mediterranean diet reduced diabetes risk by 21%, with an even greater reduction in those at high cardiovascular risk. The diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, may also help prevent obesity-related complications.
Researchers have discovered a genetic variant linked to an increased risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. The study found that variants in the FOCM pathway, which regulates homocysteine metabolism, are associated with differences in methionine processing, highlighting potential new targets for disease prevention and treatment.
The new guidelines are expected to result in 12.8 million more U.S. adults taking statins, with the majority being people over 60 years old. The expanded criteria for statin use are based on a risk-assessment score and may lead to higher statin prescriptions among older men and healthy women.
Scientists have discovered that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of oat phenolic compounds, particularly avenanthramide, contribute to the heart health benefits of oats. These findings suggest that eating oats may go beyond fiber and provide additional cardio-protective effects.
A large clinical trial found no significant reduction in cardiovascular disease (CVD) events among elderly patients taking daily supplements of omega-3 fatty acids and lutein/zeaxanthin for age-related macular degeneration. The study involved 4,203 participants and found no benefit from these supplements on CVD outcomes.
Researchers found no association between saturated fat intake and coronary disease risk, contradicting existing dietary guidelines. However, certain fatty acid subtypes showed varying effects on cardiovascular risk.
The Affordable Care Act's impact on healthcare coverage will significantly affect population health management providers, employers, and employees. New models of population health management services delivery are proposed to address these changes.
The study found that despite equal prevalence of hypertension among Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites, diagnosis rates are significantly lower, particularly among uninsured individuals. The research emphasizes the need for improved access to diagnostic and treatment services to address this disparity.
A recent study at the University of Eastern Finland found that increasing fatty fish intake can increase large HDL particles in the blood, which protect against cardiovascular diseases. Regular consumption of fish, especially fatty fish like salmon and rainbow trout, may help improve lipid metabolism and reduce cholesterol levels.
The USPSTF advises against using beta-carotene, vitamin E, or multivitamins to prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer. However, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can provide essential nutrients.
A recent study published in Gerontology highlights the long-term effects of childhood obesity on late-life health, finding that obese children may be more predisposed to complications independent of adult obesity. Early exposure to obesity can alter metabolism during a critical developmental time frame, leading to increased risk of met...
Patients who experience acute kidney injury following surgery have a higher risk of developing heart problems, including coronary events and mortality. The study found that properly treating AKI can help protect heart health.
A US study found that many adults consume more added sugar than recommended for a healthy diet, and this can increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease. The study also suggests that regular consumption of sugary drinks is associated with an increased risk of CVD mortality.
A new IUPUI study found that treating depression before cardiovascular disease onset can decrease the risk of future heart attacks and strokes. The study followed 235 older patients with depression, finding a 48% lower risk among those receiving collaborative care.
Researchers at Cleveland Clinic have discovered a process by which high-density lipoprotein (HDL) loses its cardio-protective properties and promotes inflammation. The study identified the structure of dysfunctional apoA1/HDL and found that higher levels raise cardiovascular disease risk in patients.
A recent study of 1,021 men found that physical activity significantly extends the lives of male cancer survivors. The study revealed that those who expended more than 12,600 kilojoules per week in physical activity were 48% less likely to die than those who burned fewer kilojoules.
Research from Kansas State University found that decreasing sitting time and increasing physical activity can lower chronic disease risk and improve quality of life. The study suggests breaking up sedentary periods with movement to stimulate metabolism and reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mortality.
A daily step increase of just 2000 steps can cut the risk of cardiovascular disease by 8% in those with a high risk of type 2 diabetes. The study, which analyzed data from 40 countries, also found that increasing physical activity levels through walking can substantially reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
A recent study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that HIV-infected women have a greater prevalence of noncalcified coronary artery plaques, which are more vulnerable to rupture. Immune system activation is also increased in these women, particularly with age.
A study found that older people who smoked less than 32 pack years and quit smoking 15 or fewer years ago had similar cardiovascular death risks as those who never smoked. Many participants reduced their risk in under 15 years, contradicting previous estimates of a longer waiting period.
Research found that obese people who are metabolically healthy still face an increased risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The study analyzed data from over 5,700 participants and found that normal weight individuals with multiple metabolic abnormalities also faced a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Kytai Nguyen, associate bioengineering professor at UT Arlington, has been elected as a fellow of the American Heart Association. Her research focuses on cellular engineering, tissue engineering, and stem cell therapies to develop new strategies for combating cardiovascular diseases.
A recent study found that individuals with type 2 diabetes who engage in low levels of physical activity are at a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease and death, with a 25% greater risk of coronary events and a 70% greater risk of fatal cardiovascular events.
Scientists have created a lab-made high-density lipoprotein (HDL) mimic that can be easily produced in large amounts, offering a potential new treatment for cardiovascular disease. The material is also being explored as a carrier for drug delivery and medical imaging applications.
A new study published in the British Medical Journal found that lowering blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events among people with kidney disease. The study suggests that any type of blood pressure-lowering drug is effective in preventing these events, making it a simple and affordable treatment option.
Mayo Clinic studies reveal that patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk of heart disease, with early menopause and a strong immune response to certain viruses being major contributors. The research also identifies specific biomarkers and blood test results that may indicate cardiovascular complications.
A UC San Francisco researcher recommends prioritizing dietary calcium intake over supplements to prevent osteoporosis and fractures. The recommended daily dose is 1,200 mg per day, with foods like dairy products, kale, broccoli, and Bok Choy providing essential calcium.
Two studies published in BMJ Group found a significant association between aircraft noise exposure and cardiovascular disease hospital admissions. The research suggests that even low levels of daytime and night-time aircraft noise can increase the risk of heart disease, particularly among vulnerable populations.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health finds that living close to an airport increases the risk of cardiovascular hospital admissions among older adults. The researchers analyzed data from 6 million participants and found that aircraft noise was associated with a 3.5% higher hospital admission rate for cardiovascular disease.
The American Heart Association recommends treating unhealthy behaviors like smoking and poor diet as aggressively as high blood pressure. Healthcare providers should implement the five A's to connect patients with specialists and arrange follow-up care to promote significant behavior changes.
A study led by NYU Langone researchers found that body fat and mortality due to cardiovascular disease differ between south and east Asians. A high BMI above 24.9 is a strong risk factor for death among East Asians, but not among South Asians.
A study of over 1.1 million east and south Asian individuals found a strong association between higher BMI and increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke. However, the association was weaker in south Asians, particularly at low BMI ranges.
A recent study found a modest connection between low testosterone and an increased risk of developing or dying from heart disease. However, treating low testosterone with hormone replacement therapy did not have any beneficial effect on cardiovascular health.
A recent study found a rise in the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) among adults aged 80 and older, with significant increases in those with reduced kidney function. The study suggests that targeted efforts to address CKD are necessary for this age group.
The American College of Physicians recommends treating obstructive sleep apnea with weight loss and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy as initial treatment. For patients who do not tolerate or comply with CPAP, a mandibular advancement device (MAD) is an alternative therapy option.
A new UMass Medical School study reveals that all postmenopausal women with diabetes, irrespective of their racial or ethnic background, are at a significantly higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and cancer. The research underscores the importance of prevention strategies to reduce disparities in diabetes-related mortality...
A study of 3044 civil servants found that chronic exposure to high interleukin-6 levels was associated with a lower likelihood of healthy aging, including impaired musculoskeletal functioning and diabetes. Maintaining low interleukin-6 levels may facilitate successful aging by reducing the risk of these age-related diseases.
An international study found that people in high-income countries have lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease but fewer cases of serious heart conditions. In contrast, those in low-income countries face more severe cardiovascular problems despite having fewer risk factors.
A nationwide study found that pacemaker patients without cardiovascular disease have a survival rate comparable to the general population. The study's results provide a new reference point for the prognosis of modern pacemaker patients, suggesting that cardiovascular disease is a primary factor in determining life expectancy.
A study found that short-term smoking cessation improves arterial function and reduces the risk of heart attacks, but doesn't immediately lower serotonin levels. However, longer-term smoking cessation may be needed to completely reverse the damage caused by smoking.
A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings suggests that consuming more than 28 cups of coffee per week may increase mortality risk in individuals under 55 years old. The study of over 40,000 participants found a statistically significant association between heavy coffee consumption and all-cause mortality.
The University of Louisville Diabetes & Obesity Center has won a second $11.25 million COBRE grant to continue its research on diabetes and obesity. The center aims to develop new prevention methods and treatments for these conditions, which are major health threats in the US.
A systematic review of six studies involving over 900,000 patients found a positive association between severe hypoglycaemia and cardiovascular disease risk. The link was consistent across all studies, suggesting that avoiding severe hypoglycaemia may be crucial to preventing CVD in type 2 diabetics.
Researchers at Malmo University found that saliva samples can reveal traces of serious illnesses, such as cancer and diabetes. This breakthrough could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment with a simple saliva test.
Researchers developed an ischemic stroke model using sodium alginate microspheres in miniature pigs. The method successfully blocked the skull base retia, establishing a reliable model for studying pathogenesis and developing safe drugs for cerebral infarction.
Researchers found that excessive PKC beta in endothelial cells exacerbates atherosclerosis, a condition where blood vessel walls thicken due to fatty deposits. This inhibition leads to decreased nitric oxide production, increasing cardiovascular disease risk.