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.
A gene mutation that affects antioxidant production is associated with a 50% increase in heart disease risk, even among those without traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Individuals carrying the mutation have an 80% higher risk of developing brain vessel disease.
A new study found that tiredness, frustration, and fatigue can increase the risk of heart attacks. Researchers analyzed data from over 12,000 participants, aged 45-64, to determine if psychological factors such as anger, vital exhaustion, and chronic fatigue could predict long-term heart attack risk.
Researchers found that 46.7% of coronary heart disease patients were firstborn, with lower rates of cigarette smoking and similar risk factors compared to younger siblings. The study suggests primogeniture as an independent predisposing determinant of CHD, which should be taken into account when assessing global patient risk.
Researchers found a link between non-traditional jobs and social roles with increased coronary heart disease and death. Men who identified as househusbands had an 82% higher 10-year death rate compared to working men.
Women over age 65 who took vitamin D had a significant reduction in heart disease risk compared to those who didn't. The study found that vitamin D supplements reduced the risk of heart disease death by nearly one-third, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.
A new study found that walking at moderate pace for 40 minutes a day can restore elasticity of carotid artery in postmenopausal women by 48%. This benefit may explain the positive impact of regular aerobic exercise on cardiovascular health.
Six studies presented at the 2002 Experimental Biology conference support almonds' role in lowering 'bad' cholesterol and protecting against cell damage. Eating a handful of almonds daily may significantly reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels, and even lower risk of heart disease by up to 10%.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that young men who express or conceal their anger are five times more likely to experience an early heart attack. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 medical students and found that those with the highest level of anger were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
A study found that green tea extract polyphenol can block the uptake of dopamine, providing a potential protective mechanism against Parkinson's disease. The results suggest that polyphenol can inhibit the uptake of dopamine or neurotoxin MPP+ by blocking dopamine transporter.
A study by the University of Minnesota Rasmussen Center found high prevalence of covert and overt cardiovascular disease in healthy individuals. Early screening using non-invasive testing can detect risk contributors, such as family history of heart disease.
A randomized trial found that nicorandil reduced the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with stable angina, including deaths due to coronary heart disease and non-fatal heart attacks. The study showed a significant reduction in acute coronary syndromes and all cardiovascular events compared to the placebo group.
A study of 643 women found that C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are an indicator of increased cardiovascular risk in people with no signs of heart disease. Regular exercise has been shown to decrease blood pressure in all groups of people, regardless of their weight or ethnicity.
A new UF study demonstrates improved aerobic capacity in healthy elderly adults following both low- and high-resistance exercise training programs. This challenges the conventional view that strength training is not effective for improving cardiovascular and respiratory performance.
Researchers found that women with a common mutation in the estrogen receptor alpha gene had dramatic increases in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or the 'good' cholesterol. This discovery suggests that genetic testing may help doctors make better decisions about hormone replacement therapy for preventing heart disease.
A four-year study found that implantable cardioverter defibrillators reduce death rates by 31% in patients at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. The devices detect irregular heartbeats and deliver electrical shocks to restore normal function.
A study found that hormone therapy slows atherosclerosis progression in monkeys with healthy blood vessels. Estrogen was most effective when given at an early stage, suggesting it may be less beneficial for women with advanced arterial disease.
A new Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center study found that thickening of the heart can develop as early as adolescence in women, with obesity being the main factor. The study also discovered significant racial disparities in left ventricular hypertrophy prevalence among young African American and Caucasian women.
Two Johns Hopkins studies confirm the value of treadmill exercise tests in diagnosing heart disease before symptoms appear. Women with abnormal or inconclusive test results are up to 2.6 times more likely to die from cardiovascular disease, while men with similar test results are twice as likely to die from heart disease.
Researchers at the University of California, Davis have discovered how antifreeze glycoproteins interact with ice, preventing ice crystals from growing and preserving liquid water around the protein. This discovery may lead to safer storage for food or blood products and help scientists understand biomineralization.
A Mayo Clinic study finds an association between estrogen status and reduced coronary calcium and plaque area, suggesting a potential benefit against heart disease. Estrogen may modulate the calcium content of atherosclerotic plaques, slowing progression of atherosclerosis in women.
A Mayo Clinic study reveals a shift in heart disease burden from men to women and older adults. Heart attack rates decreased among younger men but increased among women over 80, while survival rates remained unchanged for those over 75.
A study on female monkeys found that stress can reduce estrogen levels, leading to the development of atherosclerosis and increasing heart disease risk. The research highlights the importance of pre-menopausal behavioral and hormonal conditions for post-menopausal health.
Researchers found diseased gums release higher levels of bacterial pro-inflammatory components, which can travel to organs like the heart and cause harm. The study supports earlier findings suggesting periodontal disease may trigger cardiovascular disease through oral bacterial components.
Researchers at Purdue University recommend consuming omega-3 rich foods like fish, lean meat, fruits, and vegetables to balance fatty acids. Limiting omega-6 fat sources, such as processed meats and vegetable oils, can also help reduce chronic diseases.
As Alzheimer's symptoms progress, so do the costs of caregiver and patient care, with average six-month costs exceeding $29,000 per patient. Researchers urge earlier treatment to prevent increased costs and burden on caregivers.
The Society for Women's Health Research will release four news reports in February addressing key topics related to heart disease in women. The reports cover sex differences in referrals, mortality rates post-heart attack, the Framingham study, and the connection between heart disease and diabetes.
A novel cardiac glycogen storage disease has been identified through research published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. The study sheds new light on the genetic causes and consequences of this rare condition, offering potential avenues for improved diagnosis and therapy.
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that foreign-born women have a higher risk of dying from heart disease and stroke compared to U.S.-born women. The study suggests that lower rates of hormone replacement therapy use and higher rates of hypertension may be contributing factors.
A scoring system characterized the men from pessimist to optimist, with optimistic men having a lower risk of coronary heart disease. Despite this protective effect, the researchers found no difference in mortality rates between optimistic and pessimistic men.
A new study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that women with higher educational attainment have less calcification of the arteries, indicating a lower risk of developing heart disease. The analysis of 308 postmenopausal women revealed an inverse linear trend between calcium deposits and education level.
A recent study by the American Academy of Periodontology found that 48% of teeth receiving periodontal surgery improved prognosis, while only 12% in non-surgical treatment groups did. The study emphasized the importance of individual teeth assessment for optimal results.
A new pilot study aims to investigate whether treating periodontal disease can reduce the risk of heart attacks. The three-year study will follow approximately 900 patients who have had a heart attack or are at high risk of one, comparing those who receive aggressive treatment for gum disease with those who do not.
A six-year study found that regular low-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking four times a week, reduced CRP levels and improved blood vessel function in men. The study showed a significant reduction in inflammation markers for genetically susceptible individuals.
A study of 2,481 patients with heart disease found that treating depression and low social support did not reduce deaths or heart attacks. Despite improvements in psychological and social functioning, patients who received treatment showed no significant change in heart disease survival over a 3-year period.
A study found that children from high-risk families have lower levels of enzymes that help dispose of free radicals, making them more susceptible to cellular damage. Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables can help build up these enzymes and prevent free radical damage.
Men with shorter legs are more likely to develop insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes and an increased risk of heart disease. Leg length is linked to nutritional and environmental factors during childhood, suggesting it as a key indicator for disease risk.
Researchers discovered that individuals with positive attitudes were significantly less likely to develop heart disease, even after adjusting for traditional risk factors. The study followed 586 adults for an average of seven-and-a-half years and found that those in good spirits had lower levels of stress hormones.
A new study reveals that cranberries are the top antioxidant in fruits, while fresh berries and white wine can reduce heart disease risk. Cooking techniques like covering food with foil and using lower-protein ingredients can also help achieve a golden brown color and reduced browning.
The Framingham Heart Study is entering a new phase by recruiting its third generation of participants to explore factors that promote the development of cardiovascular and other diseases. The study aims to identify genes contributing to good health and develop new imaging tests for early-stage coronary atherosclerosis.
A new study by the American Chemical Society ranks cranberries number one in antioxidants, making them a key component of a healthy diet and lifestyle. The study found that cranberries contain more disease-fighting phenols than other fruits, including broccoli, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
A randomized, double-blind trial found colesevelam significantly lowered mean LDL levels by up to 18% without serious adverse events. This effect was independent of sex or age, making colesevelam a useful therapeutic alternative for patients with mild to moderate primary hypercholesterolemia.
A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center has identified a significant number of undiagnosed hypertension and diabetes cases in the Dallas County population. The project aims to reduce death and disability from coronary heart disease through analysis of collected data.
A UCSF study found that significant reductions in heart disease risk factors have saved over 430,000 deaths annually, with population-wide dietary changes and widespread use of medications being cost-effective.
A University of Otago study found that intensive exercise and specific dietary changes can improve insulin sensitivity by up to 20% in otherwise-healthy individuals. The research, which included 79 participants aged 35-60, also showed a significant improvement in insulin action among Māori participants.
A new study found that patients with periodontal disease have higher levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation associated with cardiovascular risks. The study suggests a possible link between oral bacteria and heart disease, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good gum health.
Research reveals antioxidant supplements can mitigate the negative effects of ozone gas on lung function. Additionally, tiny airborne particles are associated with increased risk of hospital admissions for heart disease among diabetics.
Researchers found that a high pulse pressure during exercise was associated with endothelial cell dysfunction and blood-vessel stiffening, which may be an early sign of heart disease. This finding suggests that measuring blood pressure during exercise could be a more sensitive marker for detecting cardiovascular risk.
A groundbreaking study has found that Avandia can prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes in patients with impaired glucose tolerance, a condition affecting millions worldwide. The results have provided proof of concept for a larger prospective study to establish the effectiveness of Avandia in preventing Type 2 diabetes.
A recent study has found that shift workers are more likely to experience abnormal heart rhythms, with the risk increasing with the number of night shifts worked. The study measured changes in premature ventricular complexes and heart rate variability among employees working day and night shifts.
Research found that nonsmoking spouses of smokers consumed unhealthy diets with high fat and cholesterol, but low fiber and essential nutrients. The study suggests that these dietary choices can exacerbate the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and other chronic diseases in nonsmoking spouses.
A new international survey reveals that people are largely unaware of their cholesterol risk, with 13% believing they're at high risk for heart disease. Despite having multiple risk factors, many individuals incorrectly assess their level of risk, highlighting the need for education and awareness campaigns.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that African-American patients receive fewer heart procedures than white patients, despite having a higher risk of heart disease. Researchers suggest various factors, including patient education and physician attitudes, may contribute to these disparities.
A new study found that implanted cardioverter defibrillators save the most lives among patients with severe heart disease who suffer from abrupt heart rhythm malfunctions. The device monitors electrical signals and acts within seconds to restore a normal heartbeat, providing life-saving benefits for high-risk patients.
A study by UF researchers found that most sedentary adults overestimate the intensity of their moderate activities, with only a small percentage reaching high-intensity levels. The findings suggest that better guidance is needed for adults to define their level of activity and receive the greatest cardiovascular benefits.
Researchers from UCSF found that folic acid and vitamin B12 supplements can lower homocysteine levels by 25% and 7% respectively, resulting in a 8-13% decrease in heart disease rates and deaths. The study estimates that adding these supplements to daily grains could save $24 billion over 10 years.
Smoking cessation can lead to significant improvements in heart disease risk factors within a few weeks of quitting or reducing smoking. The sooner an individual quits, the more substantial the benefits will be.
A UK population study found that an estimated 3.1% of adults aged 45 and older had definite or probable heart failure, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis and targeted screening to alleviate symptoms and improve prognosis.
A UB study found that Mexican Americans who primarily speak Spanish and are less 'Americanized' are significantly less active during leisure time. This disparity is associated with acculturation, which affects physical activity habits.
A new study published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that following a low-fat, high-fiber diet can lead to increased confidence and awareness of health and nutrition. Participants who adopted the eating plan reported no detrimental effects on taste, cost, or overall well-being.
A 10-year study of elderly Dutch men found that those who consumed the most black tea had a significantly lower death rate from ischemic heart disease. High catechin intake was associated with healthy lifestyle practices, such as a balanced diet and regular activity.