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.
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.
A study of 26,902 male health professionals found that skipping breakfast was associated with a 27% increased risk of heart attack or death from coronary heart disease. Men who reported eating late at night also had a higher risk of coronary heart disease, but this may not be a major public health concern due to low prevalence in the s...
A new study published in The Lancet found that calcium supplements may increase the risk of heart disease and death in patients with kidney disease. Patients who took non-calcium based treatments had a lower risk of death compared to those who took calcium supplements, highlighting the potential dangers of long-term use.
Research found a worrying increase in alcohol-related deaths among young women in Glasgow, Liverpool, and Manchester, contradicting overall falls in both countries. The study suggests that increased affordability, marketing, and cultural influences may be driving this trend.
Researchers at the Montreal Heart Institute have discovered a new compound that prevents valve deterioration and can even reverse aortic valve stenosis. The treatment could help avoid major complications of heart surgery and prevent heart failure and sudden death.
Researchers at VCU are studying the biology of allergic disease with a $1.8 million NIH grant. They aim to understand how mast cells respond to signals, potentially leading to new therapies for conditions like asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.
A Johns Hopkins study found that healthy people carrying a genetic mutation for arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia/cardiomyopathy (ARVD/C) are at higher risk of developing symptoms if they participate in endurance sports and frequent exercise. Reducing exercise can lower this risk.
A long-term study of 3,275 young adults found that the duration of obesity is independently linked to the development of subclinical heart disease. The researchers discovered that participants who remained obese for a longer period had higher levels of coronary artery calcification.
The US is losing ground in health outcomes to other countries, with mental and behavioral disorders, musculoskeletal problems, and neurological conditions causing significant disability. Chronic disability now accounts for nearly half of all health loss in the US.
A study published in Chemical Research in Toxicology reveals that cigarette smoke affects key genes protecting the heart and lungs, leading to increased risk of heart disease in obese smokers. Cigarette smoke exposure also amplifies this effect in non-smoking obese individuals who inhale second-hand smoke.
Individuals with abdominal fat are at greater risk of heart disease and cancer compared to those with a similar BMI who carry their fat in other areas. The study used CT scans to assess ectopic fat locations around the heart tissue and aortic artery.
A study published in JAMA found that low vitamin D blood levels are associated with a greater risk of heart disease in whites and Chinese populations, but not in blacks and Hispanics. The researchers suggest that genetic factors may play a role in the varying associations between vitamin D levels and heart disease across different raci...
A new report by George Washington University researchers finds that many Medicaid beneficiaries lack access to essential preventive services. The study highlights gaps in coverage for critical services such as screening tests for colorectal cancer, high blood cholesterol, HIV infection, and diet counseling for obesity prevention.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed a blood-based test that accurately identifies who will respond to aspirin therapy and predicts patients at risk for heart attacks. The test, known as the 'aspirin response signature,' measures gene activity patterns in the blood.
A new study conducted by Indiana University found that postmenopausal women who quit smoking reduced their risk of heart disease, with benefits starting to show within years. The study analyzed data from 104,391 women ages 50-79 and found a significant drop in heart disease risk among those who quit smoking, regardless of diabetes status.
Researchers found that simultaneously controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. The study suggests that prescribing medications and regular doctor visits can greatly benefit certain populations, including older adults and Hispanic-Americans.
A long-term study measuring the association between PTSD and heart disease found that male twin Vietnam veterans with PTSD were almost twice as likely to develop heart disease, even after accounting for lifestyle factors. The study suggests a link between PTSD and cardiovascular health.