Research on the causes and treatment of heart disease. Covers light exposure and heart health, sex differences, heart-in-a-dish models, and cardiac risk.
Research suggests that very high HDL cholesterol levels may increase the risk of heart attack and death, contrary to traditional views. The study found a U-shaped curve in the relationship between HDL cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk, with both low and extremely high levels increasing the risk.
Guidelines recommend inducing labour or caesarean section at 40 weeks to minimize pregnancy risks, particularly for women with congenital heart disease. Women with heart disease face higher mortality risk during pregnancy compared to healthy counterparts.
The British Heart Foundation is launching a £30 million global cardiovascular challenge to identify and solve the biggest problems in heart and circulatory disease. The Big Beat Challenge will bring together world-leading researchers and innovators to accelerate breakthroughs that could transform lives across the globe.
The Lancet study estimates that one in three people drink alcohol, with 2.2% of women and 6.8% of men dying from alcohol-related health problems each year. The risk of death increases rapidly with higher levels of consumption, offsetting any potential protective effects against cancer, injuries, and infectious diseases.
A study of 35,132 individuals found that unstable drinking patterns over time may increase heart disease risk, while consistent moderate drinking within recommended guidelines may have a cardioprotective effect. Consistency in drinking behavior is crucial for reaping the benefits.
Research suggests that moderate drinking within recommended guidelines may have a cardioprotective effect, but unstable patterns over time increase the risk of coronary heart disease. Consistency is key, and lifestyle changes, such as retirement, may also play a role in differing risks.
The American College of Cardiology recommends incorporating smoking cessation into cardiovascular care, with a focus on evidence-based treatments. Community and policy-level interventions, such as smoke-free laws and education campaigns, also play a crucial role in reducing tobacco-related heart disease risk.
Chagas disease, caused by a parasite, has spread to the US and other countries, carrying a high risk of heart disease. Early detection is critical for treatment, which can be cured with medications having a 60-90% success rate.
Researchers found that young, healthy individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol are still vulnerable to cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease, even with a low 10-year risk. Lifestyle interventions and cholesterol-lowering medication may be necessary for these individuals to achieve healthy LDL levels.
Researchers found that treatments restoring blood flow to the lower limbs of people with critical limb ischemia can lead to longer survival and reduced healthcare costs compared to amputation. The study analyzed Medicare records of over 72,000 patients diagnosed with primary critical limb ischemia between 2010 and 2015.
Scientists developed a method to characterize the genetic contributions to traits and diseases, revealing that cognitive traits and psychiatric disorders are influenced by tens of thousands of gene variants. The study provides a 'big picture' of genetic influences, useful for designing future genetic studies.
A large international study found that individuals consuming average amounts of sodium (3-5g/day) do not face increased health risks. However, those exceeding five grams a day may experience cardiovascular events, and improving dietary quality with potassium-rich foods can mitigate this risk.
A diverse diet may actually lead to consuming more calories and increasing the risk of weight gain. Instead, experts recommend prioritizing a balanced eating pattern that emphasizes whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
People with younger-onset type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of cardiovascular complications and premature death. The study found that those diagnosed before the age of 10 had a 30-times greater risk of serious cardiovascular outcomes than those in the general population.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that older adults who spend less time sitting and more time engaged in light to vigorous physical activity benefit from healthier levels of heart and vessel disease markers. The results showed that increased physical activity was particularly beneficial for...
Research reveals that routine screening and genetic testing can identify up to 30% of relatives with an underlying genetic predisposition to developing life-threatening aortic diseases. This could lead to earlier detection and potentially save lives.
Researchers found that obese women had a thicker left ventricle, lower E/A ratio, and higher systolic blood pressure compared to normal or overweight women. These changes may explain their predisposition to preeclampsia and cardiovascular complications during pregnancy.
A new study finds that long term abstinence from alcohol and heavy drinking are associated with an increased risk of dementia. The researchers found that every 7 unit a week increase in consumption was associated with a 17% increase in dementia risk among those drinking above 14 units a week.
Unsheltered homeless adults in Boston experience significantly higher mortality rates due to noncommunicable diseases and substance use. The study found that avoiding shelters increases the risk of death among this subpopulation, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
Research suggests that higher body mass index (BMI) can cause changes in the heart's structure and function in young adults, including thicker vessel walls and increased blood pressure. The study used genetic analysis to uncover evidence of a causal link between BMI and cardiovascular measurements.
Researchers discovered 44 chromosomal regions linked to abnormal heart rhythms, including atrial fibrillation and heart block. The study's findings could lead to better treatments and a greater understanding of the heart's electrical activity.
Death rates from heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers are higher in low- and middle-income tropical countries compared to high-income Western nations. Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, account for 90% of deaths in Western countries due to late diagnosis and inadequate treatments.
A new study, based on a subgroup of KEEPS participants, found no effects of hormone therapy cessation on carotid artery intima-media thickness. The results support the use of hormone therapy for menopause symptom relief or bone loss prevention, with potential benefits on heart disease reduction.
A global study found that people infected with HIV are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease, with the greatest impact in sub-Saharan Africa and Asia Pacific regions. The study highlights the need for targeted treatments to maximize resources in countries with limited healthcare funding.
New research from the American Heart Association found that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of first and recurrent heart attacks, even in areas with moderate-to-high levels of traffic pollution. Moderate cycling for four or more hours per week cut the risk of recurrent heart attack by 31 percent.
A new study found that low-carb diets can improve artery flexibility in women, even if men lose weight more, suggesting a potential benefit for pre-diabetic women. This improvement in artery flexibility reduces the risk of developing serious heart conditions.
A nationally representative study found that cardiovascular mortality rates increased rapidly in rural India and surpassed urban areas between 2000 and 2015. Younger adults, particularly those born after 1970, are at the highest risk of death due to heart problems caused by narrowing of the heart's arteries.
A new study found that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in blue-collar workers who responded to the World Trade Center plane attack on September 11, 2001, may increase their risk of heart attack and stroke. The study, published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes Journal, included over 6,800 non-firefighter workers...
A new grant will explore the use of genome editing to modify human pluripotent stem cells for cardiac treatment. This approach could lead to unlimited production of cardiac cells in the lab for therapy, reducing the need for heart donors.
A new study found Indonesia's life expectancy increased by eight years between 1990 and 2016, but non-communicable diseases have dramatically risen. The 'double burden' poses significant health challenges, with heart disease, diabetes, and injuries taking a toll on the population.
A new study found that middle-aged individuals with high fitness are 56% less likely to die from heart disease after a depression diagnosis. Dr. Madhukar Trivedi recommends steps to boost exercise success, including consistency, tracking progress, and varying exercises.
A new study published in LGBT Health found that bisexual men have a higher risk for heart disease compared to heterosexual men, with increased rates of mental distress, obesity, and elevated blood pressure. Researchers highlight the importance of tailored screening and prevention strategies to reduce heart disease risk in bisexual men.
Researchers used gene editing and stem cell technologies to predict genetic variants associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition that can lead to sudden cardiac death. The study showed promise for improving the accuracy of gene variant interpretation and diagnostic testing.
Researchers found that positive results for glucose and HbA1c in one blood sample are a highly accurate predictor of diabetes and major complications. The study suggests a single blood sample may be sufficient to diagnose diabetes, potentially reducing the need for repeat tests.
A pooled analysis of 2 million people aged 42-77 from Europe to Asia suggests marriage protects against heart disease/stroke. Being single, divorced, or widowed increases cardiovascular risk, with divorce associated with a 35% higher risk of developing heart disease.
A web-based tool called KardioKompassi provided personalized genetic risk information to patients and doctors, leading to significant changes in smoking cessation and weight loss rates. The results showed that nearly 90% of participants made better health care choices after receiving their genomic data.
A new clinical trial found that combining wearable devices with financial incentives and personalized goal-setting significantly increased physical activity levels among ischemic heart disease patients. After financial incentives were stopped, the incentive group continued to increase their physical activity.
A clinical trial by University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine shows that combining wearable devices with financial incentives and personalized goal-setting increases physical activity levels in heart disease patients. The study found a significant increase in step counts, totaling about 100 miles more than the average patient in co...
The adult ventricular septum plays a crucial role in both the right and left ventricles' performance. Advanced imaging techniques reveal its mechanical patterns, which may help predict adverse cardiovascular events.
An observational study tracking over 100000 men and women found that job strain is associated with a higher risk of premature death in men with coronary heart disease, stroke, or diabetes. Despite achieving treatment targets, men experiencing job strain had a 68% greater risk of death compared to those with no job strain.
New research suggests that regular exercise has a greater impact on blood vessels in middle-aged men compared to post-menopausal women. Arterial stiffness and blood pressure improved with brisk walking, but were higher in women after exercise.
A new review published in Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases found that plant-based diets can prevent and reverse atherosclerosis, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease by 40%. Plant-based diets are rich in fiber and phytonutrients, which reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, while animal products are high in saturated fat a...
A new study by the American Heart Association found that high protein diets may be associated with a small increased risk of heart failure in middle-aged men. The study followed 2,441 men over an average of 22 years and found that those who consumed more protein had a slightly higher risk of developing heart failure.
A study of over 2,800 postmenopausal women found that a higher proportion of male to female sex hormones was associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular disease risk. The researchers suggest that having a more male-like hormone profile may affect heart disease risk independent of other risk factors.
A higher testosterone to estradiol ratio is associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and heart failure. Higher total testosterone levels are linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease and total cardiovascular disease.
South Asian-Americans are at a higher risk for heart disease and stroke due to increased risks of severe atherosclerosis, diabetes, and poor diet habits. Behavioral factors such as physical inactivity and unhealthy dietary choices contribute to this risk.
A new scientific statement from the American Heart Association highlights the unique health risks faced by South Asian Americans, including higher rates of atherosclerosis and heart attacks. The statement emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and increased physical activity, to reduce this risk.
Regular commuters with active travel patterns have a 30% lower risk of fatal cardiovascular disease, while those who combined active commute and non-commute travel had an even lower risk. More active patterns of travel were also associated with an 8% lower risk of all-cause mortality.
A recent study found that daily egg consumption is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and specific types of stroke. The research, conducted in China, involved over half a million adults aged 30 to 79 and followed them for an average of 8.9 years.
A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania found that dogs born between June and August are at higher risk of heart disease. The research suggests that exposure to fine air particulates during pregnancy may play a role in later development of heart disease.
The American Heart Association advises consuming two servings of non-fried fish per week to reduce heart failure and coronary heart disease risk. Eating oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids substantially outweighs any risks associated with mercury contamination.
A study of 138 VA medical centers found wide variations in mortality rates for patients with ischemic heart disease and chronic heart failure. Mortality rates ranged from 5.5% to 9.4% for ischemic heart disease and 11.1% to 18.9% for chronic heart failure.
A new study published in The Journal of Physiology found that proper maternal care can significantly reduce abnormalities in the offspring's body clock, leading to a lower likelihood of developing heart disease. This suggests that early life experiences may play a crucial role in shaping an individual's health later in adulthood.
Researchers uncover clue to disease process development by identifying novel way to control innate immune response, which may translate to treatments for conditions such as atherosclerosis, autoimmunity, and heart failure. Animal studies support finding, showing mice with mutated sNASP proteins are more susceptible to septic infection.
A new study found that uterine cancer survivors are more likely to experience cardiovascular problems years after treatment. The researchers identified a significant association between endometrial cancer diagnosis and an increased risk of heart diseases, peripheral and vascular atherosclerosis, and other circulatory disorders.
Researchers found that immune cells in the bloodstream can worsen heart disease when they migrate to the heart. Blocking their migration improved symptoms in mouse models of heart disease, offering a novel therapeutic approach for non-ischemic cardiomyopathy.
A study published in the American Heart Association's Circulation Journal found that following five healthy habits can significantly improve longevity for both men and women. The research analyzed data from thousands of adults and estimated that maintaining these habits could add over a decade to life expectancy, with women seeing an i...
A new study presents promising results using 3D printing technology to predict and prevent paravalvular leaks in patients undergoing TAVR. The study's findings suggest that personalized valve placement and size can lower the risk of leaks, improving patient outcomes.
Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing heart failure in African Americans, with hospitalizations for heart failure nearly three times more likely among current smokers. The study found that smoking a pack or more per day for 15 years was associated with twice the risk of heart failure compared to non-smokers.
A new study by The George Institute for Global Health found that women in the US are less likely to receive high-intensity statins after a heart attack, despite guidelines recommending them. The study of over 88,000 adults suggests that adherence to these guidelines may be needed to prevent deaths from heart disease and stroke.