Articles tagged with Heart Disease
Research presented at EuroEcho-Imaging 2013 found that HIV patients with a positive blood viral load have a significantly higher incidence of structural heart disease. The study suggests that HIV itself might be an independent causal agent, and having a detectable blood viral load nearly doubles the prevalence of heart disease.
Researchers devised a mathematical model to improve treatment options for coronary heart disease (CHD), which accounts for 18% of US deaths annually. The model helps explain the factors governing drug release and distribution in drug-eluting stents, providing valuable insight into developing better treatments.
Ancel Keys, a prominent nutrition researcher, has had a significant impact on American eating habits. The new biography aims to explore his life and work in the context of the evolution of American food culture and its effects on health status.
A recent study highlights the association between poor oral health and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, particularly among those consuming high amounts of sugar in junk foods. Experts recommend reducing fizzy drink intake and improving oral hygiene to prevent heart problems later in life.
Researchers have discovered a rare genetic variation that increases triglyceride levels, contributing to the risk of heart disease and other disorders. The ApoE R145C variant is estimated to affect up to 36 million sub-Saharan Africans worldwide.
A study from a worldwide research consortium found that controlling three risk factors - blood pressure, serum cholesterol, and blood glucose - can cut the obesity-related risk of heart disease by more than half. High blood pressure poses the biggest risk, accounting for 31% of increased heart disease risk.
A pooled analysis of 97 prospective studies found that controlling these factors can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke in overweight and obese individuals. High blood pressure poses the biggest risk, accounting for most of the increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that beta-blocker medication given to patients with heart disease undergoing noncardiac surgery is associated with a lower risk of death and major adverse cardiovascular events. The effect was more pronounced in patients with heart failure or recent myocardial infarction.
Family members of patients with coronary heart disease improved cholesterol levels, physical activity, and dietary habits after participating in a year-long intervention program. The program included counselling sessions, goal setting, and feedback, resulting in reduced body mass index and waist circumference.
Research shows childhood cancer survivors are more likely to experience premature heart disease and a decline in arterial function, with a 9% decrease in arterial health seen among leukemia survivors who completed chemotherapy. Lifestyle changes can help mitigate these risks.
Researchers evaluated the effectiveness of early statin therapy in children with familial hypercholesterolemia and found that it significantly reduced coronary heart disease survival rates. After 10 years, young adult patients who received statins from childhood had not suffered from cardiovascular complaints.
Research found that heart disease accounted for approximately one-quarter of pregnancy-related deaths in California between 2002-2005. Women who died from cardiac causes were more likely to be African-American or obese, and often had undiagnosed high blood pressure during their pregnancies.
A novel method to estimate LDL-C levels has been developed, providing more accurate risk classification for heart disease. The new approach uses a larger database of lipid profiles and applies an adjustable factor for triglyceride levels, resulting in improved accuracy, especially for patients with elevated triglyceride concentrations.
A new study by Intermountain Medical Center has discovered a simple way to further predict a diabetic patient's risk for heart disease: measuring their body mass index or BMI. The findings show that the greater the patient's BMI, the greater their risk for heart disease.
Research tracked almost 23,000 UK children's pulse rates from 1980-2008, finding a consistent rise of 0.04 bpm per year, more pronounced in boys. The increase suggests higher risks of diabetes and heart disease in later life.
Danish researchers have identified a clear link between narrowed heart valves and high levels of lipoprotein(a) in the blood, which may help prevent valvular heart disease. The study found that people with very high levels of lipoprotein(a) are two to three times more likely to develop aortic stenosis.
The new guideline broadens cardiovascular risk assessment to include stroke, providing new gender- and ethnicity-specific formulas. It aims to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from lifestyle changes or drug therapy.
Researchers discovered genetic differences between African Americans and European Americans that affect blood clot formation, providing a potential explanation for the racial disparity in heart disease outcomes. The study highlights the need for personalized treatment approaches based on an individual's genetic profile.
A prospective study found that improved periodontal health slows atherosclerosis progression, while worsening infections parallel increased risk for coronary events. The study suggests a clear relationship between mouth bacteria and thickening of the carotid artery.
A study of 48 patients found higher coronary risks associated with left-sided radiation and supine body position. Targeting baseline cardiac risk factors may reduce radiotherapy-induced heart disease risks.
Mayo Clinic studies reveal that patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk of heart disease, with early menopause and a strong immune response to certain viruses being major contributors. The research also identifies specific biomarkers and blood test results that may indicate cardiovascular complications.
Researchers pinpointed the DCHS1 gene as responsible for the most common form of mitral valve prolapse, a condition that leads to heart failure. The gene disrupts heart valve development and growth, causing structural integrity issues in the mitral valve.
A new consensus report highlights massive underdiagnosis and undertreatment of hereditary high blood cholesterol in virtually all countries, with the exception of Netherlands and Norway. Easy to diagnose through a blood test and family history, the condition can be treated with statins and a low-cholesterol diet.
A study found that combining high-intensity interval training with Mediterranean diet counselling significantly improves body fat mass, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight loss in obese individuals. The intervention also resulted in improved aerobic fitness, reduced waist circumference, and better control of blood sugar levels.
A new study found that overnight dialysis boosts kidney health and reduces the risk of heart disease by improving artery function. This treatment method allows for more frequent and longer dialysis sessions at home, leading to reduced toxin buildup in the blood.
Research from Athens, Greece found that psychological interventions reduced mortality and cardiovascular events by 55% after 2 years or more in patients with coronary heart disease. The addition of psychological support improved patient outcomes by providing information, reassurance, and stress management techniques.
Researchers found that disrupting Nrf2 reduces reductive stress, cardiac protein aggregation, and extends survival in mice with heart failure. This study suggests restoring balance in reduction-oxidation chemical reactions can prevent heart disease.
Regular weight training may improve HDL function and protect against heart disease even in those who remain overweight. The study found that sedentary men had dysfunctional HDL compared to strength-trained men, regardless of body weight status. Fitness is a better measure of who has healthier functioning HDL cholesterol.
Research found a possible link between high levels of aircraft noise and increased risk of heart disease and stroke, with risks around 10-20% higher in areas with highest levels of noise. The study controlled for other factors such as social deprivation and air pollution.
New research reveals that blocking cell death proteins can prevent abnormal heart muscle thickening in animal models. This breakthrough could lead to new strategies for treating certain forms of heart disease, including hypertension and genetic conditions.
A new study reveals that investing in delayed aging research would yield better population health and economic returns than advances in individual fatal diseases like cancer or heart disease. The analysis predicts an additional 11.7 million healthy adults over 65 by 2060, with significant benefits over the long term.
A new MRI technique has been developed to detect Fabry disease, a genetic condition that affects the heart, brain, and nerves. The T1 mapping test can identify microscopic changes in the heart muscle structure that are not visible on regular images, allowing for early detection and treatment.
A recent study found that high-dose statins significantly reduced gum inflammation in heart disease patients within four weeks. The research also showed a close link between gum inflammation and atherosclerotic disease, suggesting that improving oral hygiene may lead to improved cardiovascular health.
A study of over 1.1 million east and south Asian individuals found a strong association between higher BMI and increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke. However, the association was weaker in south Asians, particularly at low BMI ranges.
A CDC study links short and long sleep durations to increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Adults 45+ who sleep six hours or less or more than 10 hours per night are at higher risk for these chronic diseases, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises.
A recent study published in Nature reveals that high blood sugar levels can cause irregular heartbeats, or cardiac arrhythmia, by activating a protein called CaMKII. The researchers found that O-GlcNAc, a sugar molecule, attaches to CaMKII and causes it to become overactive, leading to pathological changes in the heart's calcium signal...
The World Heart Federation is publishing a special issue to raise awareness about rheumatic heart disease (RHD), which is highly preventable but remains neglected globally. The special issue explores the burden of RHD, current challenges, and innovative solutions for prevention and treatment.
Treating strep throat with penicillin can reduce ARF/RHD risk by 70-80%, and including primary prevention in overall strategy is crucial. Global efforts to combat RHD control have shown success through comprehensive strategies involving syndromic treatment, education, and awareness campaigns.
Current estimates of rheumatic heart disease deaths globally are likely underestimates, with new studies underway to address data gaps and inform control strategies. The authors propose re-evaluating the burden of disease in two categories: symptomatic and asymptomatic disease.
A lack of awareness about rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in low-income countries is a major concern. Raising awareness that untreated sore throat caused by group A streptococcal infection can lead to acute rheumatic fever (ARF)/RHD is crucial for prevention and control.
A study published in Global Heart finds that echocardiography is increasing detection rates of definite and borderline rheumatic heart disease globally. Using echocardiography increases detection rates by many-fold, revealing a higher true global prevalence than current estimates.
Researchers analyzed data from four randomized trials to determine the most effective high-intensity training programme for CHD patients. VO2max increased by 11.9% after an average of 23.4 training sessions, with intensity above 92% HRmax showing greater effects.
A study of 1,256 Argentine women found plaque buildup was more common among those with type 2 diabetes. Researchers recommend screening for heart disease in younger women with type 2 diabetes to reduce the risk of heart attacks.
Researchers are studying rare genetic variants associated with common diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, in African-Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans. The goal is to better understand how genetic factors influence disease susceptibility and develop more personalized prevention, diagnoses, and treatment.
A study found that patients with a first degree relative registered with aortic stenosis have a 2.04-fold increased risk of developing the condition. This risk is doubled in those with ischaemic heart disease and family history, highlighting the importance of genetic factors and familial clusters in the development of aortic stenosis.
Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health call for President Obama to create a National Commission on the Health of Americans to address the country's declining health status. The US ranks last among peer nations in health, with high rates of adverse birth outcomes, heart disease, and infant mortality.
A new study finds Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, a human heart disease, in chimpanzees. The condition was detected in two half-brother chimps who died suddenly during physical exertion at a UK zoo.
A new study found that adults who engage in moderate physical activity up to two and a half hours a week do not increase their risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. The study also found no association between race, sex, or body weight and the risk of knee osteoarthritis.
A recent study found that reduced levels of inflammation may explain how some obese individuals remain metabolically healthy. Inflammation is associated with a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease, but some obese people do not develop high blood pressure or unfavorable cholesterol profiles.
A genetic locus on chromosome 1q25 has been identified as associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The variant affects glutamic acid metabolism and was specifically linked to CHD risk in diabetic patients, suggesting a mechanistic link.
A recent study found that intensive lifestyle changes and metformin treatment reduced cholesterol levels and improved triglyceride profiles, lowering the risk of heart disease. The Diabetes Prevention Program analyzed over 1,600 participants, showing positive changes in blood particle distribution.
A large-scale analysis of nearly half a million death records in South Africa reveals that the death rate from tobacco is more than twice as great in the coloured population. Smoking causes one in four deaths among middle-aged men and one in six deaths among middle-aged women in this group.
A recent study found that smoking is linked to a similar increased risk of stroke for men and women worldwide. Women smokers are at greater risk for a more deadly type of stroke. Quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk, suggesting hormonal differences may contribute to the higher risk in women.
A large national study found that higher levels of urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio were associated with greater risk of incident but not recurrent coronary heart disease in black individuals compared to white individuals. The study also confirmed that urinary albumin excretion is an important biomarker for CHD risk.
The University of Louisville Diabetes & Obesity Center has won a second $11.25 million COBRE grant to continue its research on diabetes and obesity. The center aims to develop new prevention methods and treatments for these conditions, which are major health threats in the US.
A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that obesity is associated with higher mortality rates in individuals with diabetes, but not those without the condition. The research used data from a nationally representative sample of US adults and followed them over a six-year period to confirm deaths.
A new study, MADIT-Asia, aims to improve treatment of non-ischemic heart disease in the Asian population. The trial will test cardiac resynchronization therapy using a two-lead system, which may reduce complications and improve outcomes.
A Penn study found that psoriasis patients with more severe skin disease are at higher odds of having major medical diseases, including lung disease, heart problems, and kidney issues. The researchers identified a common pathway involving TH-1 cytokines promoting inflammation and insulin resistance.
A study of over 240,000 participants found that women with a history of kidney stones had an increased risk of coronary heart disease, while no association was seen in men. The researchers suggest further research is needed to determine the underlying cause of this sex-specific association.
A study found that echocardiographic screening in the general public for structural and valvular heart disease was not associated with a reduction in risk of death, myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke. Despite low prevalence of structural heart disease, screening led to unnecessary tests and potential harm.