Research on diseases of the heart and blood vessels. Covers microvascular imaging, light exposure, cardiac imaging anxiety, and sex differences in risk.
Researchers found strong connection between common IL-1 gene variations and elevated CRP levels, a protein marker of inflammation. The study's findings may help physicians identify patients at risk earlier and monitor disease progression.
A study by Dr. Anne B. Newman found that people with cardiovascular disease have a 30% increased risk of dementia, primarily due to vascular dementia caused by insufficient blood flow to the brain. Preventing cardiovascular disease may be an effective measure for preventing dementia in older adults.
A study found that heavy tea drinkers had a 44% lower death rate than non-tea drinkers after a heart attack, while moderate tea drinkers had a 28% lower risk. Flavonoids in tea may help prevent LDL cholesterol from becoming oxidized and improve endothelial function.
Research found that consuming at least 300mcg of folate per day reduces stroke and cardiovascular disease risk. Folate, a B-vitamin, is found in citrus fruits, leafy greens, beans, and grain products.
Researchers found a link between polycystic ovary syndrome and increased coronary artery calcification, an early indicator of cardiovascular disease. Addressing insulin sensitivity and central obesity may reduce this risk in young women with PCOS.
A new study challenges the Hispanic paradox, finding that U.S.-born Mexican Americans have higher rates of heart disease deaths than non-Hispanic whites. Researchers also found that Mexico-born Hispanics were not significantly different in mortality risk.
A study found that Finnish men with high mercury levels in their hair had a 60% increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease and a 70% increased risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that avoiding regular consumption of old, large predatory fish is key to reducing the risk.
A new study found that sedentary men with higher levels of abdominal visceral fat have lower cardiovagal baroreflex gain, increasing their risk of cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that weight loss may improve cardiovagal baroreflex gain and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that young men who express or conceal their anger are five times more likely to experience an early heart attack. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 medical students and found that those with the highest level of anger were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
A study by the University of Minnesota Rasmussen Center found high prevalence of covert and overt cardiovascular disease in healthy individuals. Early screening using non-invasive testing can detect risk contributors, such as family history of heart disease.
Innovative programs addressing infant mortality, cancer screening and management, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and immunization show promise. Community-based initiatives, including churches, prisons, and barber shops, are key to building trust and addressing socio-economic factors contributing to health disparities.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that moderate alcohol consumption can lower cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal women. The researchers observed significant improvements in lipid profiles, with a greater benefit for those starting with higher levels of LDL-cholesterol and triacylglycerols.
Researchers found diseased gums release higher levels of bacterial pro-inflammatory components, which can travel to organs like the heart and cause harm. The study supports earlier findings suggesting periodontal disease may trigger cardiovascular disease through oral bacterial components.
Researchers found that supplementing with both folic acid and vitamin B12 can significantly lower homocysteine concentrations. This suggests that a dual-fortification policy could be more effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study's findings have implications for food fortification policies worldwide.
A new pilot study aims to investigate whether treating periodontal disease can reduce the risk of heart attacks. The three-year study will follow approximately 900 patients who have had a heart attack or are at high risk of one, comparing those who receive aggressive treatment for gum disease with those who do not.
The Framingham Heart Study is entering a new phase by recruiting its third generation of participants to explore factors that promote the development of cardiovascular and other diseases. The study aims to identify genes contributing to good health and develop new imaging tests for early-stage coronary atherosclerosis.
A new NHLBI study found that high-normal blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure by 1.5 to 2.5 times in 10 years compared to optimal blood pressure levels. The study also showed a continuous increase in cardiovascular events with age, especially in older adults.
A study of severely obese children found abnormalities in their arteries, including stiffness and reduced elasticity, linked to heart disease and strokes. The authors warn that childhood obesity is a growing concern, translating to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality if left unchecked.
Researchers have found that atherosclerosis is driven by chronic inflammation of vessel walls, which is central to CD44's role. Drugs targeting CD44 may contribute to treating atherosclerosis, especially when combined with existing therapies.
A new study found that patients with periodontal disease have higher levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation associated with cardiovascular risks. The study suggests a possible link between oral bacteria and heart disease, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good gum health.
A review article in The Lancet highlights the negative effects of shift work on health and productivity. Desynchronisation of circadian rhythms can lead to poor sleep, gastrointestinal disorders, and cardiovascular disease, emphasizing the need for employers to create effective working environments.
A study found that elderly individuals with low thyrotropin concentrations are at an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease. The mortality rate doubled in the first five years of follow-up, and cardiovascular disease was up to three times more likely to occur.
A study by Gladstone researchers has identified a specific gene that contributes to the development of tuberculosis. The discovery highlights the importance of recruiting immune cells in controlling the disease, and raises concerns about the potential risks of CCR2 drugs.
Scientists at Princess Margaret Hospital have discovered the role of CD45 in regulating cellular signals and found that it acts as an 'off switch' to prevent diseases. The discovery could lead to targeted treatments for chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease by controlling the body's immune response.
A newly discovered molecular protein plays a crucial role in determining whether proteins with improperly folded structures are refolded or degraded, according to University of North Carolina researchers. This finding has significant implications for understanding heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases.
A survey of over 6,700 individuals found that smoking and heavy drinking are linked to poorer food choices and increased health risks. The study suggests that targeting multiple risk factors simultaneously is crucial for effective health promotion.
Recent findings on autophagy, a vital cellular process, reveal its connection to various human diseases such as breast cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. Autophagy's role in maintaining cell development is also highlighted, alongside the challenges researchers face in understanding its mechanisms.
Researchers identified a novel gene target, SREBP-1c, which controls the expression of lipogenic enzymes. Synthetic compounds binding to LXRa were also discovered, offering potential therapeutic targets for treating disorders like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
A study by the American Heart Association found that individuals with heart attacks are more likely to have periodontal disease, a type of gum tissue inflammation. The researchers believe that high blood levels of C-reactive protein may be linked between the two conditions.
Replacing refined grains with whole grains may significantly reduce the risk of ischemic stroke in women, with even a daily increase in whole grain consumption offering benefits. The study of over 75,000 female nurses found that higher whole grain intake was associated with a 43% lower risk of ischemic stroke.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a strong inverse association between fruit and vegetable intake and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Consuming 10 or more servings per day reduced the risk by 32%, while smokers still experienced a significant risk reduction.
A review by Sanjiv Agarwal and Akkinappally Venketeshwer Rao suggests that dietary antioxidants, particularly lycopene found in tomatoes, may have protective effects against cancer. Further research is necessary to establish guidelines for healthy eating and confirm the role of lycopene in disease prevention.
Studies found human evolution led to a decrease in high-risk genetic variants associated with these diseases, instead increasing protective e2 and e3 variants. Analysis suggests advantageous mutations may have driven this shift.
The study found that low-income African-American women are unaware of the high risk of cardiovascular disease among black women and do not consider it a health priority. They understand the link between diet and heart disease but lack knowledge about obesity, diabetes, and smoking's impact on cardiovascular disease.
Researchers developed an experimental drug that reversed the effects of Fabry disease in mice, reducing glycolipid levels and eliminating toxic side effects. The treatment has potential applications for other lysosomal storage diseases affecting thousands of people in the US.
Researchers found that Losartan reduced fatty streak development in monkeys fed a high-fat diet by 50%, suggesting the drug's potential in preventing atherosclerosis. The study suggests treating hypertension and cholesterol together may improve heart attack prevention statistics.
Researchers used genomics-based approach to discover new surface proteins that behave differently and are present across multiple strains of Neisseria meningitidis. These proteins can stimulate an antibody response capable of killing the bacterium, a key property for vaccine efficacy.
A University of Colorado study identified deposits of beta amyloid in the brains of wild, aging landlocked salmon, sparking new ideas about human aging and Alzheimer's disease. The study found that while brain regions responsible for memory and navigation were affected, other areas continued to function normally.
A Harvard study finds that regular vigorous exercise lowers leptin levels in both normal-weight and overweight men, which may reduce the risk of heart disease. Men who were more physically active had lower leptin levels, regardless of their weight or diet.
The Transcendental Meditation (TM) program was shown to decrease atherosclerosis and risk of heart attack and stroke in hypertensive African Americans. The study found that TM practitioners had a significant reduction in carotid intima-media thickness, comparable to lipid-lowering medications and intensive lifestyle modification programs.
A new study published in the American Heart Association finds that eating legumes, such as beans and peas, at least four times a week can lower the risk of heart disease by 19%. The study examined data from over 11,000 men and women and found that frequent bean-eaters had a 9% reduced risk for all forms of cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found Madh6 gene and Smad6 protein play crucial role in cardiovascular system, causing heart valve and blood vessel abnormalities. This discovery provides potential target for developing novel therapies to treat cardiovascular disease.
A study found that unfiltered coffee increases plasma homocysteine concentrations in healthy volunteers, equating to a 10% overall increase in risk for heart attack or stroke. Individuals at risk of cardiovascular diseases should limit their consumption of unfiltered coffee.
A study of 1,081 older men found that hostility is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, with high levels associated with obesity, upper body fat distribution, and insulin resistance. The researchers also found that fewer years of education correlated with higher hostility levels.
Long-term studies show people with low levels of blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and cigarette use experience lower death rates from heart attack and stroke. The estimated greater life expectancy for low-risk versus others ranged from 5.8 years to 9.5 years.
Abgenix's Phase I/II clinical trial with ABX-IL8 showed dose-dependent improvement in multiple measures of disease, including PASI and BSA. The study achieved a >25% improvement in PASI score for 58% of patients, compared to placebo.
Researchers found that 40% of men with erectile dysfunction had significant blockages in heart arteries, which is associated with chest pain and an increased risk of heart attack. The study suggests that erectile dysfunction may be an early warning sign of potential heart problems due to atherosclerosis.
A diet rich in folate, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12 may significantly lower homocysteine concentrations in individuals with high cardiovascular risk. This study found that a prescribed diet fortified with these nutrients was effective in reducing homocysteine levels, while self-selected diets showed no change.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is establishing a prestigious new Clinical Nutrition Research Unit with $4.7 million in NIH funding. The unit will focus on enhancing the use of laboratory discoveries in population-based and clinical research, as well as educating health professionals about nutrition.
Researchers found that microbial pathogens induce atheroma plaque formation in mice lacking anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The study suggests that exposure to air-borne pathogens multiplies plaque formation by a factor of 10 in IL-10-deficient mice, making the plaque more likely to rupture.
Researchers are changing treatment methods for gum disease to focus on treating bacterial infections. This approach can save many teeth that were previously considered 'hopeless' and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
A new study found that heavy alcohol consumption initiates free-radical mediated processes associated with heart disease, stroke, cirrhosis of the liver, and other chronic diseases. Vitamin C may help quell this activity, potentially limiting organ injury.
A University of Pittsburgh study found that a non-invasive test can predict heart problems in middle-aged women without clinical signs of disease. The test, called electron beam computed tomography (EBCT), detected early signs of atherosclerosis in women who had no risk factors or clinical signs of disease.
Seven large randomized clinical trials investigate the relationship between homocysteine, vitamins, and cardiovascular risk. The American College of Physicians recommends high-risk individuals take folic acid supplements, while others can benefit from a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
The new center will conduct studies and educational activities to understand the underlying mechanisms of inflammatory diseases and their relationship to oral inflammation and systemic conditions. The research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of patients by identifying similarities between inflammatory conditions.
New research recommends a higher intake of vitamin C due to its role in preventing cardiovascular disease, cancer, and cataracts. Studies show that increased levels of vitamin C can reduce risk factors associated with these conditions, making it essential for overall health.
The US FDA approves ENBREL, a biologic response modifier, for moderately to severely active polyarticular-course juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in patients with an inadequate response to other treatments. The treatment has shown a clinical response in 74% of study participants.
The American Society of Gene Therapy is hosting its 2nd Annual Meeting, featuring key researchers and NIH director Harold Varmus. The event showcases the latest advancements in gene therapies for various genetic disorders, including AIDS, cardiovascular disease, cancer, cystic fibrosis, and neuromuscular diseases.
Abgenix's Phase II trial shows 56% of patients survived at least 100 days with high-dose ABX-CBL, outperforming low-dose cohort. The company plans a pivotal Phase III clinical trial for ABX-CBL after FDA approval.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that HbA1 levels predict mortality from coronary artery disease in women with Type 1 diabetes. However, this association was not seen in men with the same condition. The study analyzed data from over 600 subjects and suggests a gender-specific link between hyperglycemia and CAD risk.