Heart Failure
Articles tagged with Heart Failure
Patients with congenital heart defects are more likely to suffer a heart attack at an earlier age
‘Lemon-on-sticks’ phenotype indicates poor prognosis in heart failure
Researchers found a high-risk subgroup of patients with the 'lemon-on-sticks' phenotype, characterized by low BMI and high WHR, who had poor outcomes and higher all-cause mortality rates compared to other phenotypes. This study highlights the need for personalized therapy in heart failure.
Findings from the first randomised trial assessing RNA therapy in heart failure
The HF-REVERT trial found that CDR132L improved secondary endpoints, including LVEF and NT-proBNP, but not the primary endpoint of LVESVI. Target engagement was confirmed by decreased plasma levels of microRNA-132. The therapy was well-tolerated with no significant safety concerns.
Efficacy and safety of digitalis glycosides in heart failure
New positive data on old drugs: Digitalis reduces heart failure events
Researchers found that low-dose digoxin and digitoxin reduced worsening heart failure events in patients with mild-to-moderate heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. The treatment was generally well-tolerated and safe, offering a cheap and effective option for managing the condition.
Digoxin in patients with symptomatic rheumatic heart disease
TCT 2026 Master Operator Award to be presented to Rebecca T. Hahn, MD
New heart disease risk prediction tool validated globally
TCT 2026 Career Achievement Award to be presented to Patrick T. O’Gara, MD
Patrick T. O'Gara, a master clinician and educator, will receive the TCT 2026 Career Achievement Award for his groundbreaking work in interventional cardiology. The award recognizes his clinical excellence, pioneering research, and mentorship of the next generation of physicians.
High-intensity interval training shows strongest vascular benefits in cardiovascular patients
High-intensity interval training shows strongest vascular benefits in cardiovascular patients. HIIE consistently improves flow-mediated dilation and vasodilation, with combined high-intensity programs showing the largest estimated effects on endothelial function.
Global experts examine how countries decide who gets a heart transplant
Experts at ISHLT's annual meeting explored how countries allocate heart transplants, with a focus on balancing competing priorities like saving the sickest patients and ensuring fairness. The discussion highlighted key differences in global allocation schemes, including France's data-driven model, which aims to prioritize patients base...
More children are surviving long enough for heart transplants—but not enough hearts exist
Advances in pediatric heart care have increased survival rates, but a shortage of donor hearts means many children still die waiting. Experts urge a shift from 'perfect' donor hearts to carefully selected organs and technological innovations to expand the donor pool.
Experiments in space provide insight into heart failure mechanisms and potential for more robust tissue engineering
Researchers are using space-based experiments to develop new methods for protecting and repairing heart tissue, with the goal of creating more robust tissue engineering techniques. By studying the effects of microgravity on heart tissue, scientists hope to identify new targets for therapy and improve patient outcomes.
Surgical innovation could provide thousands of children with new hearts valves that grow with them
Partial heart transplantation replaces only defective valves and related structures, eliminating need for repeat replacements. This procedure can provide thousands of additional valve transplants annually, benefiting young patients worldwide.
Scientists find people with severe obesity and heart failure have weakened heart muscle contractions. Weight loss may reverse this condition
Researchers found that people with severe obesity and heart failure have weakened heart muscles, which can be reversed through weight loss. The study identified a chemical change in a protein called troponin I as the underlying cause of this condition.
Reimagining heart transplant allocation worldwide
A new global allocation system is being proposed to address inequities in organ allocation for heart transplants. The proposal aims to reduce disparities and ensure no viable donor heart goes unused globally.
Chinese Medical Journal article review explores artificial intelligence in heart failure management
A recent review highlights how AI enables precision treatment, continuous monitoring and individualized prognostic modeling for heart failure patients. AI integrates large-scale structured electronic health records and multimodal imaging to characterize cardiac structure and function, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
Redo surgical mitral valve replacement shows long-term survival advantage over transcatheter valve-in-valve
A new multicenter study finds that reoperative surgical mitral valve replacement demonstrates significant long-term survival benefits over transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve procedures in patients with failing bioprosthetic valves. At five years, rSMVR patients had lower mortality and more favorable valve performance.
New data on effective cardiac resynchronisation in patients with heart failure
A randomized trial demonstrated that Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing (LBBAP) is an effective strategy for cardiac resynchronisation in patients with heart failure. LBBAP was found to reduce device-related complications and procedure times compared to biventricular pacing.
Heart failure is common in people with atrial fibrillation detected during screening
Individuals with screening-detected atrial fibrillation have a threefold increased risk of developing heart failure compared to those without AF. The incidence of HF was diagnosed early after AF detection, emphasizing the importance of identifying and treating HF in patients with AF.
Better use of exercise time? Adding resistance training improves strength and aerobic fitness beyond aerobic exercise alone in heart failure
Combining resistance training and aerobic exercises significantly enhances aerobic fitness, muscle strength, and walking distance in heart failure patients. Adding resistance training to aerobic workouts increases muscle strength more than exercising aerobically alone.
People who can’t afford dental care may be at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, dementia
A new study found that older people who forego necessary dental procedures due to financial barriers may experience heart failure, a heart attack, a stroke, or dementia. The researchers suggest that alleviating upstream factors such as financial constraints could prevent chronic disease.
EMPEROR-preserved risk model and outcomes in the FINEARTS-HF trial
The EMPEROR-Preserved risk model demonstrated good performance in the FINEARTS-HF trial, showing that baseline risk does not modify the relative treatment effect of finerenone. Finerenone has been shown to have a significant benefit for heart failure patients.
Biomarker, functional status, and quality-of-life trajectories before modes of death in heart failure
A post hoc analysis of the Finerenone Trial reveals that sudden death in heart failure was often preceded by modest worsening of symptoms and declining quality of life. The study suggests limited specificity for sudden death among other modes of death, implying a complex trajectory before modes of death.
Are heart failure and atrial fibrillation the same disease?
A new study finds that heart failure and atrial fibrillation share similar genetic and molecular mechanisms, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of these two conditions. The research reveals that the pathological response involves multiple cell types communicating with each other, leading to a fundamental shift in how atrial fibril...
Registration for TCT 2026 now open
Registration is now open for TCT 2026, the annual scientific symposium of CRF, taking place October 31 - November 3 in San Diego. The event will feature a dynamic program with groundbreaking research and expert-led tutorials.
Too much dietary salt linked to new cases of heart failure
A study of over 25,300 participants found that consuming a high amount of dietary salt (4,200mg/day) increases the risk of new-onset heart failure by 15%. Reducing sodium intake could lead to a significant reduction in heart failure cases and deaths.
New 4D model advances precision treatment for heart failure
A new 4D digital heart model has been shown to improve patient outcomes in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for heart failure. The model, developed at the University of Calgary, enables personalized pacemaker placement, leading to a 10.8% increase in heart function compared to standard care.
AI tool shows promise in diagnosing advanced heart failure
A new AI-powered method predicts peak oxygen consumption with high accuracy, identifying high-risk patients with advanced heart failure. The study's multi-modal model uses cardiac ultrasound images and electronic health records to detect this critical measure.
Prior authorization may hinder access to lifesaving heart failure medications
A new study reveals that prior authorization requirements for heart failure medications can significantly delay pharmacy fills, particularly for those with lower socioeconomic status or Medicaid insurance. The study found that patients with prior authorization prescriptions took three times as long to fill their ARNI prescriptions and ...
CRISPR-based technique unlocks healing power of mitochondria for heart failure therapy
Researchers at Rice University developed a CRISPR-based technique that increases mitochondrial production in heart cells, improving energy levels and pumping contractions. The system successfully boosted mitochondrial function in human cell types, animal models, and adult human heart donor tissue.
AI-driven chart review accurately identifies potential rare disease trial participants in new study
A new study by Cleveland Clinic and Dyania Health demonstrates the potential of large language models in accurately identifying patients who could benefit from clinical research. The AI system reviewed 1,476 patients and identified 46 as potential matches, resulting in a more diverse patient population.
High risk of readmission and death among heart failure patients
A study published in European Heart Journal found that nearly half of hospitalised heart failure patients are readmitted within a year, with the risk of death also remaining high. Patients with severely reduced heart function face the highest risk, highlighting the need for careful follow-up and tailored care.
Gut microbes affect the heart via the brain
Researchers found that a bacterial metabolite regulates heart function through specific brain cells, revealing a new gut-brain-heart axis. This discovery points to potential therapies for hypertension and heart failure, and may serve as a biomarker for identifying patients at high risk.
Telehealth in cardiovascular care
Oral semaglutide and heart failure outcomes in persons with type 2 diabetes
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that oral semaglutide has a potential benefit in reducing heart failure events among people with type 2 diabetes and existing heart failure. The data support the use of oral semaglutide as a treatment option for these patients.
Heart damage is common after an operation and often goes unnoticed, but patients who see a cardiologist may be less likely to die or suffer heart disease as a result
Researchers found that patients seen by cardiologists had lower mortality rates and fewer serious heart problems, including heart attack, sudden failure, or irregular heartbeat. The study suggests close teamwork between surgical and heart teams can improve outcomes after major surgery.
Diagnosis of cardiomyopathy is on the rise
A new study from Uppsala University reveals a substantial increase in cardiomyopathy diagnoses in Sweden between 2004 and 2023, associated with high excess mortality rates. The study highlights the need for improved detection and targeted treatments to address this growing public health concern.
MRI scan breakthrough could spare thousands of heart patients from risky invasive tests
Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to estimate blood oxygen levels in heart failure patients using standard cardiac MRI. This breakthrough could spare thousands from undergoing risky tube procedures, allowing for safer and more frequent monitoring.
Inflammation and autoimmune-like dysfunction may play a role in heart failure
A recent study from Penn State College of Medicine researchers found that helper T cells, typically involved in fighting infections, become overly activated in failing human hearts, causing damage. The activation of these T cells highlights the impact of inflammation and immune dysfunction in heart failure.
Could gene therapy treat a deadly heart condition that targets young athletes?
Researchers at University of California San Diego discover gene therapy restoring connexin-43 improves heart function and extends survival in several forms of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. The approach may have broader therapeutic potential across multiple genetic forms of the disease, addressing a critical unmet need.
Chronic kidney disease poisons patients’ hearts, scientists discover
Researchers identify circulating extracellular vesicles produced in diseased kidneys as the culprit behind toxicity in the heart. The discovery could lead to the development of a blood test to identify patients at high risk for serious heart problems and novel treatments to prevent and treat heart failure.
Human heart regrows muscle cells after heart attack, world-first study shows
Researchers have shown that human hearts can regrow muscle cells after a heart attack, paving the way for new treatments to reverse heart failure. The discovery was made possible by pioneering techniques that use living tissue samples taken from patients during bypass surgery.
Increasing muscle elasticity improves heart failure
Researchers discovered that inhibiting a protein called RBM20 can improve heart filling and flexibility in mice with heart failure. The study also found positive impacts on energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, antioxidant balance, and blood flow.
Hidden heart-care gaps among Asian American patients
A study of 800+ US hospitals and 700,000 patients reveals disparities in care among Asian American subgroups. Filipino and Vietnamese patients are least likely to receive guideline-recommended heart failure care.
ACC/AHA issue new guideline on managing congenital heart disease in adults
Adults born with heart defects are at increased risk of cardiac complications as they age. The new guideline provides recommendations for monitoring, counseling, and treating Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), including mental health assessment and physical activity guidance. It also emphasizes the importance of access to ongoing speciali...
Penn researchers awarded $25M to conduct trial using smartphones to fight heart disease
A $25M study will enroll 18,000 adults at high risk of heart disease and track their progress using smartphone fitness trackers. The trial aims to prove that increasing physical activity can prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Calcium in breast arteries predicts future cardiovascular disease
A new study found that calcium accumulation in breast arteries and its progression on mammograms can predict future cardiovascular disease. Women with more severe calcification and those whose calcification worsened over time had a higher risk of heart-related events, such as heart attack, stroke, and death.
SwRI, Trinity University to synthesize novel compound to mitigate effects of stroke, heart attack
Researchers at SwRI and Trinity University are working on a new prodrug to mitigate ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI), which causes permanent cellular and tissue damage. The team aims to protect against IRI by targeting protein misfolding during cellular stress.
$3.2M NIH grant to test and refine a heart pump for long-term use in children
Researchers at Penn State are developing a small, durable ventricular assist device (VAD) specifically designed for young children with heart failure. The PSU Child VAD aims to provide long-term support while waiting for a heart transplant, improving quality of life and outcomes.
Researchers identify bacterial enzyme that can cause fatal heart conditions with pneumonia infections
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have identified a bacterial enzyme called zmpB that can cause fatal heart complications in people infected with pneumonia. The enzyme potentiates the invasion of Streptococcus pneumoniae into the heart, leading to damage and potentially life-threatening outcomes.
Valve trials validate better ways of fixing a malfunctioning heart
Recent trials have shown that catheter-based procedures can match the long-term results of open-heart surgery in relatively healthy patients with valvular disease. These procedures offer life-saving options to people too frail for open-heart surgery and are expected to bring more upcoming trials to New Brunswick.
New Family Heart Foundation study finds only 13% of adults with cardiovascular disease achieve comprehensive LDL-C management
A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that only 13% of US adults with cardiovascular disease met optimal LDL-C management, highlighting significant gaps between guideline recommendations and clinical care. The study suggests actionable steps to improve adherence, including increased use of non-...
People with diabetes face higher risk of sudden cardiac death
A large study found that people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of sudden cardiac death, particularly in younger adults. The research also showed that sudden cardiac death contributes to shorter life expectancy for those with diabetes.
Your pain meds' side effects may be masquerading as heart failure
Researchers tracked 120 older veterans taking gabapentinoids and loop diuretics, finding that only 4 doctors correctly identified the gabapentinoids as the cause of leg swelling. The study highlights the dangers of 'prescribing cascades' and emphasizes the need for regular monitoring and alternative treatment options.
Microplastics hit male arteries hard
A mouse study by University of California, Riverside scientists suggests microplastic exposure may accelerate the development of atherosclerosis in males. The study found microplastics dramatically worsened plaque buildup in male mice, but not females.
New 'heart percentile' calculator helps young adults grasp their long-term risk
A new online calculator uses percentiles to help younger adults forecast their risk of a heart event over the next 30 years. The tool calculates a person's 30-year risk of developing heart disease using common health measures, such as blood pressure and cholesterol.
Common gout drug may reduce risk of heart attack and stroke
A Cochrane review found that low-dose colchicine reduced heart attacks and strokes in people with a history of heart disease or stroke. The study involved nearly 23,000 participants and showed that taking colchicine could prevent about two of each heart attack and stroke among those with cardiovascular disease.
Genetic testing trifecta predicts risk of sudden cardiac death and arrhythmia
A new genetic risk score combines rare and common gene variants with non-coding genome information to predict arrhythmia risk. This comprehensive framework can be applied to other genetically influenced diseases like cancer and Parkinson's Disease.