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Protein block stops vascular damage in diabetes

Researchers at Lund University discovered a substance that prevents atherosclerosis caused by high blood sugar levels. The substance only affects NFAT-activated cells and has no impact on the immune system. This breakthrough offers hope for a targeted treatment to address vascular damage in diabetes patients.

SourceLund University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 5, 2013

Heart health matters to your brain

A new study from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center suggests that cardiovascular disease (CVD) plays a role in cognitive decline before it is clinically apparent in patients with type 2 diabetes. The research found that CVD risk factors, such as calcified plaque and vascular status, contribute to type 2 diabetes-related cognitive decline.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Diabetes and its Complications·DateJun 4, 2013

The search for an early biomarker to fight atherosclerosis

Researchers at the Montreal Heart Institute have discovered a blood protein that contributes to the early development of atherosclerosis. Angiopoietin-like protein 2 (angptl2) is found six times higher in subjects with coronary heart disease than healthy individuals, making it a potential early biomarker for the condition.

SourceMontreal Heart Institute·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 14, 2013

Vitamin D: More may not be better

New research from Johns Hopkins finds that high doses of vitamin D supplements do not confer additional benefits on cardiovascular health or longevity in healthy adults. However, elderly individuals, postmenopausal women, and those with kidney disease may still benefit from higher blood levels of the sunshine vitamin.

Upper GI bleed linked to death from other causes

Individuals who experience an upper gastrointestinal bleed may be more likely to die from other causes, particularly malignant tumours and cardiovascular disease. A study published in PLOS Medicine found that the risk of death due to non-gastrointestinal causes was higher for those with an upper GI bleed.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 30, 2013

Hair analysis reveals elevated stress hormone levels raise cardiovascular risk

A recent study found that long-term cortisol exposure in seniors is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The study used scalp hair analysis to measure cortisol levels over a three-month period, revealing a clear link between chronically elevated cortisol levels and cardiovascular disease.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 17, 2013

First of its kind study in Canada looks at who is taking aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke

A new study in Canada has found that over 40% of healthy individuals are taking daily aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease, despite recent literature suggesting its limited benefits. The study's authors hope to raise awareness among physicians and patients about the importance of discussing anti-platelet medication use.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Family Physician·DateMar 19, 2013

Zeroing in on heart disease

Scientists identify genes involved in cholesterol metabolism and cardiovascular disease risk by selectively decreasing gene expression using RNA interference. The study provides a new approach for understanding the mechanisms of cardiovascular disease and improving its prediction and diagnosis.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 28, 2013

New findings on mortality of individuals with schizophrenia

Researchers found individuals with schizophrenia have shorter life expectancy due to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Women with schizophrenia were particularly vulnerable, facing a threefold higher risk of cardiovascular disease and a 1.7 times greater chance of cancer-related death.

SourceLund University·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJan 21, 2013

Shifting the safety balance for overnight workers

A new screening tool has been developed to help identify individual vulnerability to health and safety impacts of shift work. The tool, for a condition known as shift work disorder, aims to reduce workplace accidents and illnesses caused by shift work, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.

SourceMonash University·JournalSLEEP·DateDec 2, 2012

Daily steps add up for midlife women's health

A study of 292 Brazilian women aged 45-72 found that daily step count is a strong predictor of health outcomes, with active women less likely to be obese or develop metabolic syndrome. The study supports the importance of incorporating physical activity into daily life for midlife women's overall health.

SourceThe Menopause Society·JournalMenopause·DateNov 21, 2012

Relatives of people dying suddenly from heart problems have increased risk of cardiovascular disease

A study published in the European Heart Journal found that relatives of young people who died suddenly from a heart-related problem are at greatly increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that close relatives of these victims should be screened to detect those who would benefit from preventive treatment.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateNov 13, 2012

Crusty foods may worsen heart problems associated with diabetes

A University of Illinois study found that consuming foods with advanced glycation end products (AGEs) can increase cardiovascular complications in people with diabetes. Foods like grilled meats and crispy fried foods contain AGEs, which are associated with plaque formation and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Food Science and Nutrition·DateOct 22, 2012