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.
Researchers developed a new combined PET-CT scan technique that diagnoses cardiac sarcoidosis more accurately, revealing secondary sites in 40% of patients. The technique uses a 72-hour high-fat diet to provide clearer images and better detect the disease.
A systematic review of 37 studies found a link between artificial sweetener consumption and higher risks of weight gain, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. The evidence suggests that artificial sweeteners may have negative effects on metabolism and gut bacteria, although the evidence is conflicting.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that not all plant-based diets are created equal. While a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables reduces heart disease risk, one that emphasizes less healthy plant foods like sweetened beverages and refined grains increases the risk.
A study by Newcastle University found that social prescribing of non-medical activities such as gardening, cooking clubs, and volunteering improves physical health and reduces anxiety and isolation. Link Workers played a crucial role in supporting participants throughout the program.
A study by Tufts University researchers found significant changes in miRNA expression levels in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and congestive heart failure. The study identified new genomic biomarkers, including exosomal miR-181c and miR-495, which could provide insight into diagnosis and therapies for MMVD and human ...
Liver specialists recommend screening high-risk patients for cirrhosis due to its growing prevalence as a cause of death, but others argue that the test's accuracy and cost-effectiveness are questionable. Implementing widespread screening could lead to disinvestment in other interventions and risks population health.
A large-scale study found that higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. The study, which included over 119,000 participants, also showed that higher BMI was linked to higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Researchers at York University found that beta blockers can reverse detrimental gene expression patterns in heart failure. The study suggests that this reversal may be protective against heart failure and could lead to new treatments.
A new study reveals that PABPC1 is absent in adult heart cells but reappears when needed for growth during exercise and disease, suggesting a mechanism to promote healthy heart growth and prevent disease.
Research published in the journal Heart found a significant association between persistent moderate to severe mental distress and increased risk of death among patients with stable coronary heart disease. Conversely, mild or occasional distress over the long term showed no such link.
A new scientific statement highlights the need for more funding in biomedical research on heart disease, citing a significant return on investment for both health and the economy. The research has led to substantial economic returns through jobs, tax revenues, and products in the marketplace.
A study published by the American Psychological Association found that individuals with a diverse range of positive emotions have lower levels of systemic inflammation, which may reduce their risk for chronic diseases. The research, led by Anthony Ong, suggests that having a rich and diverse positive emotional life may benefit health.
A new study reveals that nearly half of US women are not aware of the leading cause of death among females, with only 40% reporting a heart health assessment by their healthcare provider. Women's Heart Alliance reports alarming data on delayed medical care due to weight concerns and lack of education.
Research finds that women are often unaware of their risk, and physicians don't prioritize prevention due to perceived barriers. The study aims to destigmatize cardiovascular disease for women and promote evidence-based guidelines for better treatment.
A new study found that breastfeeding duration was associated with a reduced risk of coronary heart disease and stroke in mothers. Women who breastfed for two years or more had an 18% lower risk of heart disease and a 17% lower risk of stroke compared to those who never breastfed.
A study led by the University of Nottingham has uncovered new clues on the connection between pre-eclampsia and an increased risk of heart disease in later life. The research suggests that the body's normal defence mechanism for flushing out cholesterol from the blood may be disrupted by the illness.
A study found that chronic immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are linked to a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease in patients. The research identified specific genetic patterns associated with cardiovascular disease risk across different chronic IMID patient groups, which could lead to the development of more efficient preve...
Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered a molecular pathway involved in the toxic interaction between host cells and the immune system when using cardiac stem cells from patients with heart disease. The study suggests that these cells can develop inflammatory properties and exacerbate damage to the already diseased heart muscle.
Researchers found that urinary cortisol levels were strongly associated with asymptomatic coronary heart disease in both women and men. Surprisingly, dopamine was inversely related to heart risk, indicating higher levels are linked to lower coronary calcium buildup.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a monoclonal antibody known as SYN0012 that blocks the production of cadherin-11, a protein responsible for calcifying heart valves. The drug shows promise in keeping heart valve leaflets supple and preventing the progression of aortic valve stenosis.
The new technology uses electronically barcoded microparticles to test for biomarkers, bacteria, viruses, air contaminants and more. It aims to enable true labs on chips, smaller than a USB flash drive or an Apple Watch, for real-time health monitoring and diagnosis.
A mutated version of the OBSCN gene may lead to irregular heartbeat and a weakened heart, especially when combined with stress. The study found that this mutation affects protein regulation in heart muscle cells, leading to inefficient heart function.
A four-year study of athletes with ICDs found that competitive sports were not harmful to most patients. However, those with a rare heart disease called arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) required more shocks during physical activity. Athletes with ICDs should consult their doctors before participating in sports.
Researchers found that people with type 2 diabetes have bacteria that penetrate the mucus lining of their colon, leading to insulin resistance and abnormal blood glucose levels. The study's results provide a new understanding of how metabolic diseases like diabetes develop.
A new observational study found that short sleep times may raise the risk of death in people with a cluster of heart disease and diabetes risk factors, with those who slept less than six hours being twice as likely to die of heart disease or stroke. The study suggests that taking care of sleep is important for reducing mortality risk.
A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that frequent recreational cannabis use increases the risk of gum disease. The study analyzed data from over 1,900 US adults and found that frequent users were twice as likely to have signs of periodontal disease as non-frequent users.
Research finds a strong association between maternal pregnancy complications and early coronary heart disease in young adult offspring. The study suggests that optimal health and nutrition for expectant mothers may help reduce the risk of heart disease in their children.
Researchers have identified an increase in lysyl oxidase as a contributor to heart disease, with potential implications for cancer. The study found that mice with high levels of the enzyme LOX experienced more severe heart disease than those without.
A recent research review found that moderate drinking has little support for preventing heart disease. In fact, seniors who drink moderately may be healthier due to their age and health status. However, the association between moderate drinking and better health may be misleading due to factors such as age and overall health.
Research found that eating three or more servings of fruit and vegetables daily can reduce the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD) by 18 percent. The study, published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, also highlighted the importance of public health awareness and dietary assessments for PAD patients.
A recent study reveals significant variations in cardiovascular mortality rates across US counties, highlighting the need for targeted health policies. The largest concentrations of high mortality rates are found in southeastern Oklahoma and eastern Kentucky, while lower rates are observed in areas surrounding San Francisco and central...
A study of 28 healthy individuals found that just 14 days of reduced physical activity led to significant changes in body composition, including loss of skeletal muscle mass and increases in total body fat. The findings highlight the importance of remaining physically active and the dangers of continuous sedentary behavior.
Young veterans with combat-related PTSD have an increased 'fight or flight' response during mental stress, contributing to higher risks of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Researchers found that these individuals had higher adrenaline levels and less control over their heart rate in response to blood pressure changes.
The Tsimane Health and Life History Project found that many individuals reach a social and economic peak between the ages of 40 and 60. They adapt by devoting less time to hunting and more to horticulture, producing the majority of calories for their extended families.
A new position paper provides consensus recommendations for ionizing radiation dose optimization in pediatric patients with congenital and acquired heart disease. The guidelines focus on strategies to minimize radiation exposure while maintaining effective imaging procedures.
A year-long weight loss programme helped participants lose more weight and prevent diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease compared to a 12-week programme. The study found that the longer programme was cost-effective in the long-term due to reduced future healthcare expenditure.
A study published in The BMJ found no association between long-term gluten intake and the risk of coronary heart disease in people without celiac disease. However, restricting dietary gluten may lead to a low intake of whole grains, which are associated with cardiovascular benefits.
Researchers found a genetic explanation for how smoking contributes to coronary heart disease, revealing a single gene variant that loses its protective effect in smokers. This discovery opens doors to new therapeutic targets and personalized approaches to preventing CHD.
A new MIT-developed device can accurately measure walking speed using wireless signals, providing insights into cognitive decline, cardiac disease, and other health issues. The system has 95-99% accuracy and can be placed on a person's home wall without intruding on daily life.
A 40-year study found that individuals with favorable cardiovascular risk factors in middle age lived 3.9 years longer, survived 4.5 years longer without chronic illness, and spent 22% fewer senior years with chronic disease. Maintaining good heart health earlier in life can have a significant impact on later health and longevity.
Researchers at UTHealth School of Public Health found that cold temperatures significantly increase mortality risk in Texas, with a 5% increase in deaths per degree Celsius drop in winter. The study focused on 12 metropolitan areas and found that people with pre-existing heart and respiratory diseases are most vulnerable to cold weather.
Researchers discovered that macrophages aggregate around cardiac cells to facilitate electrical conduction, helping the heart beat in rhythm. This finding suggests a new role for immune cells in electrophysiology and may lead to new therapeutics for heart disease.
The National Institute on Aging has awarded $1.3 million to the American Federation for Aging Research as the first Nathan Shock Centers Coordinating Center. This center will coordinate activities among six basic biology of aging centers, enhance external communication with researchers and the public, and facilitate data sharing.
Researchers at UCLA found conscious sedation is a safe option for heart valve procedures, with shorter ICU and hospital stays, lower direct costs, and similar adverse event rates. The study suggests patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement should receive conscious sedation whenever possible.
The American Heart Association's new initiative aims to raise awareness and empower patients to better manage their high cholesterol. Survey findings show a lack of knowledge among patients with high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease risk factors, leading to missed testing opportunities.
A new study finds that one-third of normal weight individuals have cardio-metabolic risk factors for heart disease. The research team recommends screening cardiometabolic risk factors in race/ethnic minority populations before the onset of overweight or obesity.
A new study published in CMAJ found that people living in regions with better access to preventive healthcare had lower rates of cardiac events. Regions with high cardiovascular event rates were associated with lower dietary intake and higher obesity rates.
Veterans with heart disease who are also depressed are more likely to struggle with medication costs and delayed medical care. Researchers found that these patients often have higher rates of chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure and obesity.
Researchers have developed a method to swiftly screen the non-coding DNA of the human genome for links to diseases driven by gene regulation. The technique uses CRISPR/Cas9 to precisely cut and paste DNA sequences, enabling the identification of regulatory elements controlling disease genes.
A study of 9,231 individuals found that those with higher free thyroxine (FT4) levels had an elevated risk of atherosclerotic morbidity and mortality independent of cardiovascular risk factors. Higher FT4 levels were also associated with greater risk of subclinical atherosclerosis.
A meta-analysis of 15 studies found significant associations between insomnia symptoms and the risk of heart disease and stroke. Insomnia symptoms such as difficulty initiating sleep, maintaining sleep, and non-restorative sleep were linked to increased risks of cardiovascular events.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that combining five simple tests provides a broader and more accurate assessment of heart-disease risk. The tests, including an EKG, blood tests, and imaging, better predict who will develop heart disease compared to standard strategies.
Researchers found shorter telomeres in mice with a human genetic mutation linked to heart disease leads to deadly buildup of calcium in heart valves and vessels. The study provides a potential solution to studying other human disorders of aging in mice.
Panos N. Papapanou, a Columbia University dental scientist, has received the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) Award for his diverse and prolific contributions to periodontal disease research.
The Tsimane people from Bolivia have the lowest levels of vascular ageing, with coronary atherosclerosis five times less common than in the US. Their diet and lifestyle, characterized by hunting, gathering, and farming, may hold the key to preventing heart disease.
The updated guidelines focus on global risk assessments and non-invasive testing results, emphasizing individualized case evaluation. The revised criteria aim to improve quality of care by delivering the right treatment to the right patients.
Research reveals PPCM is a global disease, presenting uniformly despite differences in healthcare systems and ethnic groups. Women with PPCM often experience heart failure and blood clots, highlighting the need for increased awareness and timely treatment.
A study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions found that low intake of fruits and vegetables accounted for 57.3 million DALYs and 44.6 million DALYs, respectively. The burden of heart disease attributed to limited fruit and vegetable consumption varied across countries, with some experiencing a significant imp...
A study found that nearly half of all deaths due to heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes in the US are linked to suboptimal dietary habits. The research identified specific foods and nutrients associated with cardiometabolic diseases, revealing opportunities for public health planning and strategy development.
A study published in JAMA found that nearly half of US deaths from heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes are linked to inadequate diet. The main culprits were excess sodium consumption, as well as overconsumption of processed meats and sugar-sweetened beverages.