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.
Female smokers have seen a significant rise in the risk of death from lung cancer and chronic obstructive lung disease (COLD) in recent years, with a 25.7 times higher risk than never-smokers. This increase is largely attributed to changing smoking patterns, where women now smoke more like men, starting earlier and consuming more cigar...
A study found that smoke-free legislation implemented in 2006 led to a 11% decrease in acute myocardial infarctions, mainly among non-smokers and older adults. The reduction is attributed to decreased passive exposure to tobacco smoke.
A new study of 73,000 Danes found that 'ugly' cholesterol, a type of remnant-like particle cholesterol, is the direct cause of arteriosclerosis and ischaemic heart disease. High levels of ugly cholesterol triple the risk of heart disease, emphasizing the need for preventive treatment and lifestyle changes.
Survivors of heart attacks are three times more likely to develop depression due to their thought pattern about the event. Addressing threat perception through psychological interventions can help reduce this risk and promote a smoother recovery.
Researchers found abnormal proteins in gluteal fat, which secretes chemerin and reduces omentin-1 levels. These proteins correlate with increased inflammation, insulin resistance, and heart disease risk. The study dispels the myth that pear-shaped bodies are healthier than apple-shaped ones.
A study of nearly 3 million adults found that obesity and higher levels of body mass index (BMI) are associated with a significantly higher risk of death. Conversely, being overweight was found to have a lower risk of death. The researchers suggest possible explanations for these findings, including earlier presentation of heavier pati...
An autopsy-based study among US service members (2001-2011) reveals high prevalence of atherosclerosis, associated with older age, lower education level, and higher BMI. The study's findings highlight the need for continued efforts to reduce cardiovascular risk factors.
A recent study published in Food & Function journal found that consuming fresh Hass avocado with a burger meal can neutralize inflammation and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The study, conducted by researchers at UCLA, also suggests that avocados may help mitigate negative effects on blood flow after eating a burger.
The study reveals that high blood pressure is the leading cause of death globally, followed by smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. The analysis suggests that addressing these risk factors can help reduce disease burden and improve public health.
The Global Burden of Disease Study 2010 reveals massive shifts in health trends worldwide, with people living longer but sicker. Chronic diseases and injuries are now the primary causes of death, driven by a growing global population.
Non-communicable diseases, such as cancer and heart disease, accounted for nearly two-thirds of all deaths globally in 2010. Ischaemic heart disease and stroke were responsible for one in four deaths, a significant increase from the previous decade.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method to detect artery inflammation in pigs using targeted micro-bubbles. The technique, which has shown promising results, may help identify patients at risk for strokes and monitor the effectiveness of treatments.
Women who smoke even light-to-moderate cigarettes are at higher risk of sudden cardiac death, with the risk climbing by 8% for every five years of continued smoking. Quitting can significantly reduce and eliminate this risk over time.
Researchers identify β-hydroxybutyrate as a key compound in protecting cells from oxidative stress, potentially slowing aging and age-related diseases. The discovery reveals a new avenue for treating or preventing conditions like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, autism, and traumatic brain injury.
A study found that open heart surgery is safer than angioplasty for dialysis patients with blocked arteries surrounding the heart, with five-year survival rates over 90% without kidney disease but dismal in kidney failure patients. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in kidney failure patients, affecting 30-60%.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a way to create induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from a routine blood sample. This method could lead to new treatments for cardiovascular diseases by using patients' own cells to repair damaged tissue.
Recent analysis by Oregon State University scientists suggests that both fish consumption and omega-3 supplements can prevent heart disease. The review highlights the importance of DHA and EPA in human health, and notes that plant-derived sources have less benefit than cold-water fish.
Researchers found that rituximab can improve outcomes in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies who suffer from non-criteria APS manifestations. The study showed that rituximab may be effective in treating cognitive dysfunction, thrombocytopenia, skin ulcers, and kidney disease in aPL-positive patients.
A new study published in Canadian Medical Association Journal found no elevated 10-year risk of heart disease for people who became ill during the Walkerton E. coli O157:H7 outbreak. The study involved 898 adults who consumed polluted drinking water and monitored their cardiovascular health over time.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine finds that pictorial health warnings on cigarette packaging are effective in warning against cigarette smoking. The research, led by James F. Thrasher, PhD, found that graphic imagery is more credible and effective than text-only labels among smokers with low health l...
A new study maps England's heart disease rates, showing a growing gap between rich and poor communities, especially among those over 65. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to address social determinants of health and improve cardiovascular care in vulnerable populations.
A new study by University of Leicester researchers found that effective healthcare can reduce health inequalities in England, particularly in reducing death rates from diseases like stroke, heart disease, and cancer. The study discovered that population characteristics such as age and socio-economic deprivation are major factors contri...
A study by the Heart and Stroke Foundation found that consuming just one high-fat breakfast sandwich can decrease blood vessel function by 15-20% in healthy university students. This temporary effect highlights the potential for a single high-fat meal to have long-term consequences on heart health.
Researchers from Nova Scotia found that peer mentoring programs significantly increase school day physical activity levels among elementary students. The Heart Healthy Kids Lunch program, which included games led by trained peer mentors, resulted in an average increase of over 1,000 steps per day.
Researchers discovered that babies born to mothers who lost weight after bariatric surgery have fewer cardiovascular risk factors than siblings born before the surgery. The metabolic changes and weight loss post-surgery positively affect inflammatory disease-related genes in offspring.
A study found 174 cases of sudden cardiac death in Ontario between ages 2-40, with heart disease present in 72% of cases. The majority of events occurred at home, not during sports or exercise. Researchers advocate for screening and education to detect warning signs like fainting.
A new study reveals that resistin, secreted by fat tissue, increases 'bad' cholesterol levels and accelerates artery plaque buildup. The discovery could lead to revolutionary new therapeutic drugs targeting resistin, improving statin effectiveness.
The influenza vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiac events such as strokes, heart attacks, and cardiac deaths by approximately 50 percent. A similar trend was seen for reducing death from any cause, with a reduction of around 40 percent.
A pilot program at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute has demonstrated a significant improvement in patient care for diabetic patients. The program resulted in higher notifications to doctors, referrals to community diabetes management programs, and lower average blood sugar levels among in-patients.
A new study found that resveratrol supplementation did not improve metabolic function or prevent health problems in healthy, post-menopausal women. The study suggests that resveratrol may have a synergistic effect when combined with other compounds in red wine.
A recent study published in CMAJ found that engaging in four healthy behaviors during midlife significantly increases the chances of successful aging. These behaviors include not smoking, moderate alcohol consumption, exercise, and eating fruits and vegetables daily.
A study by Columbia University researchers found that African-American and Mexican-American seniors living in predominantly ethnic neighborhoods had lower rates of heart disease and cancer compared to those living in more mixed areas. Cultural factors such as shared values and close-knit family structures may contribute to these findings.
A new review paper supports inclusion of meditation, specifically Transcendental Meditation, in government-sponsored health programs to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease. The study found the technique reduced stress hormones, blood pressure, and improved heart structure in both teens and adults.
A study combining 18 research studies found that sitting for extended periods doubles the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease and mortality. Even those meeting physical activity guidelines may still be compromised if they spend too much time sitting.
Long-term survivors of hematopoietic cell transplants are at higher risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol compared to the general population. Exposure to pre-transplant chemotherapy and radiation, as well as transplant type, contribute to this increased risk.
Observational research suggests that daily low-dose aspirin may protect the brain in elderly women at high risk of heart disease and stroke. The study found that women taking aspirin for five years showed less decline in cognitive ability than those not taking the drug.
A Canadian study found that smoking after a stroke significantly affects problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Patients who quit smoking achieved the same scores as lifetime non-smokers, emphasizing the importance of quitting for cognitive health.
Two Calgary-based support programs are helping stroke patients by providing valuable resources and peer-to-peer connections. The In-Patient Support Program in Recovery from Stroke (I.N.S.P.I.R.E.S) connects hospital patients with peers who have experienced a similar recovery process. Meanwhile, the Patient and Family Passport for Strok...
The Alberta Provincial Stroke Strategy has led to increased brain scans and targeted patient care for stroke patients. Researchers found a 18% increase in swallowing screen usage and a 27% rise in designated stroke unit care, resulting in fewer health complications.
The Calgary Stroke Program and Toronto Rehabilitation Institute have achieved Distinction status for their exceptional stroke care, demonstrating a commitment to best practices, leadership, and innovation. The awards recognize the organizations' rigorous accreditation process and dedication to improving patient outcomes.
A new study finds that zinc transporters are dysregulated in old animals, leading to increased inflammation and oxidative stress. Experts recommend adequate dietary intake of zinc for the elderly, particularly through supplements or seafood/meat-rich foods.
A high-calorie, high-sugar, high-sodium diet has been shown to induce symptoms of metabolic syndrome in rats after just two months, increasing the risk of stroke and related health issues. The study highlights the importance of a balanced diet and regular exercise in preventing these conditions.
A new study has identified genetic origins of aortic valve disease affecting 10% of cases, shedding light on hereditary component and progression of the disease. The research found rare genetic variants linked to severe health effects and disease processes, with many affected patients carrying multiple variants.
A study by Emmanouil Dermitzakis and colleagues found that genetic variants impact gene expression differently in men and women. The researchers discovered that even with the same DNA mutation, the effect on gene expression varies between sexes.
A study published in European Heart Journal found that between 30-40% of obese patients are metabolically healthy, exhibiting better cardiorespiratory fitness and a lower mortality risk. Health professionals can use lipid profile, BMI, and fitness to assess the risk for heart or cancer disease in obese individuals.
A study published in JAMA found that obese individuals who underwent gastric bypass surgery experienced significant weight loss and reductions in cardiovascular risk factors. The surgery helped improve fitness, quality of life, and even reduced the incidence of diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
Duc Dong, Ph.D., receives NIH New Innovator Award to explore genetic reprogramming as a means to grow replacement organs. The technology aims to induce new tissue development in zebrafish, allowing for rapid screening of genes and chemicals important for efficient genetic reprogramming.
Huei-Sheng Vincent Chen, PhD, receives $1.58 million CIRM Basic Biology IV award to develop personalized models of inherited heart conditions using stem cells derived from patients' own skin cells. The goal is to develop new therapies for these diseases and better understand their causes.
The study found that women with heart disease can safely go through pregnancy if adequately evaluated, counseled, and receive high-quality care. However, developing countries have poorer outcomes due to limited access to better care, while cardiomyopathy patients face higher mortality rates.
Scientists at Virginia Tech and the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center found that two mini-molecules called microRNAs can help stem the nation's obesity epidemic. The discovery suggests that treatments targeting these two specific microRNAs may help regulate cellular metabolism and increase energy expenditure, leading to r...
Researchers identified a genetic variant associated with elevated C-reactive protein levels in African American women, linked to higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. The study found that genetic factors specific to African Americans may contribute to the observed differences in inflammation levels.
Researchers propose that certain dietary fats encourage the growth of harmful bacteria, leading to low-level inflammation and chronic disease. Unsaturated fats, like omega-3 fatty acids, have strong antimicrobial properties, weakening bacterial cell membranes.
Researchers found that midlife fitness levels can lower the onset of chronic diseases such as congestive heart failure, Alzheimer's disease, and colon cancer decades later. Fitter individuals aged well with fewer chronic illnesses to impact their quality of life.
Researchers have discovered that archived Guthrie cards hold valuable epigenetic information about newborns, which can be used to predict future health outcomes. The study found that these marks are present at birth and remain stable into early childhood, offering a unique window into the development of diseases.
A recent study published in JAMA found that coronary artery calcium (CAC) scans are superior to other assessment tools in identifying individuals at intermediate risk of cardiovascular disease. The CAC scan uses a CT scan to detect calcium build-up in the arteries, allowing for more precise prediction of heart disease risk.
Scientists found a link between high galectin-3 levels and increased risk of cancer and heart disease. A new blood test can predict disease outcomes, while modified citrus pectin may block galectin-3's negative effects.
A new study found that people with blood types A, B, or AB have a higher risk of coronary heart disease compared to those with blood type O. The study's findings suggest that knowing one's blood type can help physicians better understand who is at risk for developing heart disease.
Researchers have identified CD4 T cells as the key players in an autoimmune response that fuels inflammation in the artery wall, leading to plaque buildup. A potential vaccine could target this response, offering a new approach to preventing heart disease.
A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming grapes reduced blood pressure, improved blood flow and decreased inflammation in men with metabolic syndrome. The polyphenols found in grapes are thought to be responsible for these beneficial effects.
Researchers at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute have discovered a molecule that converts stem cells into heart cells, potentially replacing diseased or damaged tissue in heart disease patients. The molecule, ITD-1, blocks TGFϐ signaling, allowing stem cells to differentiate into cardiomyocytes.