Articles tagged with Heart Disease
The open-source image analysis pipeline accurately measures brain tissue changes in animal models, reducing variability among thousands of scans. The tool has the potential to improve early-stage evaluation of new therapies for acute ischemic stroke.
A meta-analysis of nearly 1,900 studies found that climbing stairs significantly reduces the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Regular stair climbing was associated with lower risks of heart-related problems and major cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
A new review highlights how molecular biology advances are reframing PAH as a complex vascular remodeling disease driven by endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, metabolic dysregulation, and genetic susceptibility. Emerging therapies target the BMP/TGF-β pathway, growth factor signaling, and inflammatory pathways.
A new study published in JACC suggests that waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio provide critical information about cardiovascular risk, even among people with a normal BMI. Individuals with elevated central adiposity were associated with higher risks for most outcomes, regardless of their weight status.
The Marcus Foundation has awarded $28.7 million to advance a clinical trial testing a stem cell-based therapy designed to regenerate damaged heart tissue after a heart attack. Researchers aim to develop approaches that could reduce or eliminate the need for immunosuppressive drugs.
A new ACC Scientific Statement highlights the importance of considering cognitive impairment and frailty in cardiovascular care for older adults. The statement outlines practical strategies for prevention, screening, assessment, and management, aiming to improve outcomes such as independence, mobility, and caregiver burden.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that even low levels of physical activity can increase life expectancy for adults with or without atrial fibrillation. The research tracked over 87,000 adults in Norway for 15 years and found a positive association between physical activity and reduced stro...
A team of researchers from the University of Copenhagen has discovered a crucial communication system on cell surfaces that plays a significant role in heart development. Alterations in three key proteins can disrupt this system, leading to congenital heart defects.
Katherine Wilemon, Family Heart Foundation CEO, receives Honorary Fellow Award from ASPC for her advocacy and research efforts in inherited lipid disorders. The award reflects the organization's impact on advancing care and awareness for conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia.
Benoit Bruneau, director of the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, has been named an American Heart Association Distinguished Scientist for 2026. His work on heart development and gene regulation has advanced our understanding of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
A large study of over 65,000 postmenopausal women found that a higher adherence to the Planetary Health Diet was associated with a 28% lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Women who followed the diet more closely had a decreased risk of heart failure and stroke compared to those in the lowest-adherence group.
Researchers created the most detailed map of gene regulation in human heart failure, revealing how genes are controlled in specific cell types. The study identified key shifts in cell composition, gene expression, and regulatory networks, pointing to new precision medicine therapies.
Researchers developed an artery-on-a-chip platform to predict ischemic stroke risk by replicating a patient's specific vascular structure and blood flow dynamics. The tool, called a 'physical twin,' reveals that three-dimensional vascular shape and local flow disturbances matter more than simple narrowing in predicting stroke risk.
The American Heart Association states that consuming up to 400 mg of caffeine per day, equivalent to 5 cups of caffeinated coffee, is safe and may be linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease for some individuals. However, high doses of caffeine from energy drinks and other sources may cause cardiovascular harm.
A study published in Nature Medicine found that a single daily dose of a polypill significantly enhances cardiac function and reduces hospitalizations for patients with heart failure. The treatment, which combines three types of medications, shows promise as a simplified approach to optimal therapy.
A nationally representative analysis found substantial gaps in LDL-C control, with increasing disparities across primary prevention categories and underuse of lipid-lowering therapy. The study provides a contemporary population-level benchmark for the updated guideline framework.
The 2026 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guideline substantially expands the U.S. population recommended for primary prevention statin therapy, targeting lower-risk individuals. The updated recommendations aim to reduce atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk and improve public health outcomes.
The 2026 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association/Multisociety Dyslipidemia Guideline reclassified approximately one-quarter of adults, with two-thirds reassigned to lower-risk categories and one-third to higher-risk categories. This shift was driven by differences in risk factors among males, non-Hispanic Black indivi...
A study by Mass General Brigham found that nearly 1 in 3 US adults without heart disease have LDL levels above the recommended goal, and 3 in 4 are not receiving any cholesterol-lowering medication. The gap is wider among those with established heart disease, where most are already receiving therapy but still not reaching goals.
A long-term study of 1,200 women in eastern Massachusetts found that those living in disadvantaged neighborhoods faced faster declines in heart health and worse cardiovascular risk before menopause. The research highlights the importance of addressing socioeconomic factors in preventing heart disease.
Research highlights the significant impact of modifiable risk factors on ischemic heart disease mortality in the US. High body mass index (BMI) and fasting plasma glucose levels have increased attributable risk over the study period, emphasizing the importance of addressing these factors to reduce mortality.
Patients who suffered a serious heart attack had higher levels of micro and nanoplastics in their blood compared to those with chronic ischemic heart disease and normal coronary arteries. The study also revealed that people exposed to higher levels of air pollution and smokers had higher levels of microplastics in their blood.
A global analysis found alcohol use and smoking to be common risk factors for both breast cancer and atrial fibrillation/flutter in women ages 55 and older. High-risk zones were predominantly in Western countries with greater exposure to these lifestyle risks.
The updated international definition of heart failure introduces a new classification system emphasizing earlier detection and personalized treatment. The revised framework standardizes terminology, recognizing that heart failure is not a static condition.
Transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) has been shown to improve gait and restore communication between cortical brain networks in mice with ischemic stroke. This treatment targets neural mechanisms that may lead to improved motor function, according to the study.
A long-term study published in Circulation found that consuming sugary drinks and fruit juice in childhood may increase the risk of developing high blood pressure later in life. The study suggests that substituting these beverages with whole fruits, milk, and water may be associated with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.
Igor F. Palacios, MD, is honored for his groundbreaking work in structural heart disease interventions, including mitral balloon valvuloplasty and the percutaneous pericardial window technique. He has mentored hundreds of physician leaders worldwide through his kindness, generosity, and passion for patient-centered care.
A meta-analysis of 14 clinical trials found that using smartphone apps or wearable technologies can increase daily step count and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity among people with heart disease. The analysis showed that digital tools, such as self-monitoring, feedback, and goal setting, can motivate patients to be more active.
A new study published in JACC found that women who consistently strength train showed substantially lower risk of major cardiovascular disease, particularly alongside aerobic activity and reduced sedentary time. Higher levels of resistance training were associated with lower risk of major CVD, especially myocardial infarction, with no ...
A new study suggests that moderate sitting may be beneficial for highly active adults, contradicting previous guidelines. The research found a J-shaped association between daily sitting time and health outcomes, with the lowest risk at approximately 4 hours of sitting per day.
Research in mice and human heart cells suggests that synthetic cooling agents in e-cigarettes can disrupt heart rhythm, causing abnormal beats and increased cardiovascular risk. The study's findings have implications for policymakers reviewing current rules on coolants used in vapes.
Researchers developed a simple blood-based assessment to evaluate high-density lipoprotein's (HDL) cholesterol removal capacity from blood vessel walls. The study linked low HDL function to high-risk coronary plaques, supporting the use of this method for predicting cardiovascular risk.
A new study links even moderate drinking to elevated risks of chronic diseases and premature death. The research provides a much-needed benchmark with findings that one drink per day above the daily limit increases the risk of death, disability, and chronic diseases.
Researchers found that long-term exposure to air pollution is associated with more advanced coronary artery disease, even at moderate levels. The study analyzed data from 11,128 adults and found that exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide increased the risk of coronary artery disease.
A recent study found that fewer than one in five people meet the recommended flavanol intake to reduce heart disease risk. The study tracked over 30,000 participants and suggests specific food choices, like blueberries and green tea, can significantly impact flavanol consumption.
Researchers found dapagliflozin significantly reduces risk of heart failure hospitalization in individuals carrying a cardiomyopathy genetic variant. The study, published in Nature Medicine, highlights the potential for incorporating genetic screening into heart failure prevention strategies.
Senescent cells that stop dividing but don't die can become abnormally active, causing inflammation and instability in blood vessel plaques. The study found that losing key regulatory proteins activates the CD38 enzyme, leading to a higher risk of blood clots and cardiovascular events.
Researchers at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center have made significant advances in understanding cancer biology, developing AI-powered atlas of tertiary lymphoid structures as prognostic biomarkers, and uncovering drivers of resistance to KRAS inhibitors. Additionally, they have discovered a molecular pathway that drives stressed cells to b...
A University of Cincinnati research team will examine how microplastics and nanoplastics accumulate in the body and affect cardiovascular health, with a focus on potential toxicity and worsening outcomes after a heart attack. The five-year study aims to advance understanding of microplastic impact on heart diseases.
New York Valves 2026 will unveil groundbreaking clinical science and innovation in transcatheter aortic valve replacement and mitral/tricuspid valve therapies. The conference features 22 late-breaking clinical science presentations that aim to transform the treatment of structural heart disease.
The study found high-risk associations between alcohol use and all ten cancers examined, with risk increasing progressively as intake rose. Low-to-moderate drinking was associated with lower disease risk for type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, ischemic heart disease, and stroke.
A new poll by Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine finds that most men consider a carnivore diet to be 'masculine' and would change their diet if it put their health at risk. The survey also found that consuming meat is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, erectile dysfunction, and reduced fertility.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that adults with better Life's Essential 8 scores had lower odds of becoming severely ill or dying from COVID-19. The research suggests that having a healthy heart helps prepare the body for real-life stress tests, such as infectious diseases like COVID-19.
A report by the European Society of Cardiology advocates for dedicated women's heart centers to improve diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease in women. These centers can enhance quality of life, reduce symptoms, and increase survival rates for women with cardiovascular disease.
A new study by the University of Ottawa suggests that a tiny molecule, methylglyoxal, plays a major role in triggering neurological disorders after a heart attack. The molecule accumulates in the brain following a heart attack and is linked to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
Researchers found a significant association between fatty liver disease and increased cardiovascular risk, including nearly twice the rate of cardiovascular events. Patients with hepatic steatosis had a higher amount of noncalcified, rupture-prone coronary plaque.
A new study found that switching to a nicotine e-cigarette reduces toxicant exposure and improves quitting rates, with the nicotine group having a higher chance of quitting entirely. The study's results suggest that nicotine e-cigarettes could serve as an effective off-ramp for smokers seeking to reduce their tobacco use.
The updated guidelines recommend treating high cholesterol earlier and using advanced tests like Lp(a) and CAC scans to identify hidden risks. Primary care clinicians play a crucial role in implementing these changes, but challenges exist due to short office visits and insurance coverage limitations.
Researchers developed a new class of stretchy bioelectronics that can stick to biological tissue and relieve hypertension while causing less damage to surrounding tissue. The CaroFlex device uses gentle electrical frequencies to modulate the baroreceptor reflex, providing effective treatment for drug-resistant hypertension.
A major international study has identified ways to detect patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy at serious risk of sudden death, heart failure or other dangerous outcomes. The findings will help save lives by improving the ability to determine who is at greatest risk and spare low-risk patients from unneeded heart implants.
Researchers found that amiloride, a common blood pressure medication, improves artery flexibility and lowers blood sugar levels in patients with obesity. The study suggests that amiloride could be a potential strategy to reduce arterial stiffening and cardiovascular risk in these patients.
A new global analysis found that nearly 90% of the increase in adults with hypertension occurred in low- and middle-income countries. Global hypertension prevalence has risen to 33%, affecting 1.7 billion people, with control rates being only about 40% globally.
A new model for predicting outcomes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy has been developed by incorporating prospective data, including clinical history, imaging, and blood biomarker tests. This study found that integrating these methods into risk assessment can improve the prediction of fatal and nonfatal cardiac events.
In patients with symptomatic rheumatic heart disease, digoxin significantly reduced the risk of a composite of all-cause death or new-onset or worsening heart failure. The treatment had little risk of toxicity, making it a promising therapeutic option for these patients.
The US had substantially higher death rates between 1999 and 2022 compared to other wealthy nations, with cardiovascular diseases being the leading cause of excess mortality. An estimated 12.7 million US deaths could have been averted during this period if US mortality rates mirrored those of its peers.
Dr. Rebecca T. Hahn, MD, is the first imager to receive the TCT Geoffrey O. Hartzler Master Operator Award for her groundbreaking work in imaging structural heart procedures. Her unparalleled expertise has redefined the role of imaging in cardiovascular care.
Patrick T. O'Gara, a master clinician and educator, will receive the TCT 2026 Career Achievement Award for his groundbreaking work in interventional cardiology. The award recognizes his clinical excellence, pioneering research, and mentorship of the next generation of physicians.
High-intensity interval training shows strongest vascular benefits in cardiovascular patients. HIIE consistently improves flow-mediated dilation and vasodilation, with combined high-intensity programs showing the largest estimated effects on endothelial function.
A coordinated 10-year plan to improve long-term wellbeing and reverse child obesity trends is underway. The GenHEART program, spearheaded by Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, targets heart health, diet, exercise, sleep, and more.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that methamphetamine use accounted for nearly 15% of heart attacks in a northern California study. People who suffered meth-related heart attacks were often young- to middle-aged men without traditional heart disease risk factors, highlighting the need for spe...