Research on heart failure and its treatment. Covers light exposure, heart-in-a-dish models, microRNA therapy, and surgical interventions.
A study found that beta-blockers are associated with lower all-cause mortality in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction, but no significant effect on combined all-cause mortality or heart failure hospitalization. The study used data from the Swedish Heart Failure Registry and included over 41,000 patients.
A new study by Dr. Ankur Kalra identifies a significant risk factor for heart failure progression in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy patients using Doppler Tissue Imaging. The finding could lead to more aggressive management and closer monitoring of high-risk patients.
Researchers at MIT developed an algorithm that can accurately determine whether a patient is suffering from emphysema or heart failure based on carbon dioxide readings in their breath. The algorithm achieved an area under the curve of 0.98, outperforming traditional diagnostic methods.
A clinical study found that high levels of TMAO, a chemical byproduct of intestinal bacteria digestion, are linked to an increased risk of heart failure and poor long-term prognosis. Patients with low TMAO levels had a lower mortality rate despite advanced heart failure symptoms.
A new implantable device has shown promising results in slowing and reversing heart failure in patients with severe cases. The C-Pulse system, a cuff that wraps around the aorta, improves NYHA functional class and quality of life scores.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have identified a new pathway that connects the brain to increased blood pressure, involving the unusual steroid ouabain. This discovery offers potential new approaches for treating high blood pressure and heart failure.
Researchers found that high-sensitivity troponin T and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels strongly predict heart failure in individuals with mild to severe kidney disease. These biomarkers may indicate subclinical cardiovascular changes, contributing to the development of heart failure.
Researchers found that oleate, a common dietary fat, restored proper metabolism of fuel in an animal model of heart failure. This improvement enabled the heart muscle to access energy more efficiently and reduced toxic fatty byproducts.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have explained how a key protein in the heart changes in heart failure, shedding light on the molecular mechanisms behind this complex condition. By studying troponin I, they discovered that increased calcium sensitivity actually helps trigger contraction, despite slower relaxation.
Researchers have discovered a six-fold higher risk of developing heart failure among people with diabetes who appear healthy. A highly sensitive test found elevated troponin levels indicating microscopic heart muscle damage, unrelated to high cholesterol.
Temple University researchers discovered a promising new target for treating end-stage heart failure by blocking the vasopressin type 1A receptor, which interferes with the heart's ability to receive important signals. The finding could lead to more effective therapies and improve symptoms in patients with heart failure.
A recent study published in Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that CKD patients who experience multiple heart failure hospitalizations are at a higher risk of developing kidney failure. The study's findings suggest that coordinated care between specialists is crucial in managing these patients.
Researchers compared ultrathin strut sirolimus-eluting stents to thin strut everolimus-eluting stents, finding similar target lesion failure risks. A meta-analysis of β blocker therapy in heart failure with atrial fibrillation found no significant benefit over rate-control medications.
The study found that clinical variables explained over 80% of non-adherence to heart failure guidelines, with health structure characteristics playing a significant role. Countries with incentivized programs and high numbers of general practitioners per population had higher adherence rates.
Heart failure affects millions worldwide, yet awareness is low among politicians, healthcare professionals, and the public. Many cases are preventable and treatable, improving quality of life and survival.
The ANTHEM-HF study shows significant improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction and 6-minute walk test distance with both left and right vagus nerve stimulation. However, the improvement was significantly less with left-sided VNS compared to right-sided VNS.
The RELAX-AHF trial found that serelaxin reduced the occurrence of worsening heart failure within the first 5 days of admission by 12.2% compared to 6.7% in placebo groups, resulting in a significant reduction in repeated episodes of worsening heart failure and hospitalization length.
A new study by SEPTAL-CRT found that mid-septal RV lead placement in heart failure patients undergoing CRT results in similar outcomes compared to the conventional apical position. The study showed no differences in clinical outcome or implantation success rates between the two groups.
The MORE-CRT study demonstrates the safety and efficiency of quadripolar lead technology in managing common pacing complications during cardiac resynchronisation therapy. At six months, patients with quadripolar leads showed a significant reduction in intra- and post-operative LV lead-related complications compared to bipolar lead cont...
The PARADIGM-HF trial found LCZ696 to be superior to enalapril in reducing cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization for heart failure. The study showed a 20% reduction in death from cardiovascular causes and a 21% reduction in hospitalization for heart failure.
A study found that intravenous iron supplementation improved functional capacity and quality of life in heart failure patients with iron deficiency, reducing hospital admissions for worsening heart failure. The treatment also showed benefits in measures of functional status and quality of life.
The NEART-HF trial found no clinical benefit of vagus nerve stimulation for heart failure patients, despite robust pre-clinical data suggesting a potential therapeutic effect. However, the treatment did show improvements in quality of life and functional classification.
The European Society of Cardiology has launched newregistries for cardiac oncology and ACS, aiming to monitor treatment practices and outcomes. The registries will provide robust data on cardiovascular disease burden and treatment in Europe.
Heart failure affects millions worldwide, resulting in poor survival rates and a huge burden on healthcare systems. The Heart Failure Association calls for improved awareness and policy initiatives to prevent the disease and promote equity of care. Implementation could reduce deaths and improve quality of life globally.
A team at the University of Leeds used a standard TENS machine to apply electrical pulses to the tragus, reducing nervous signals that can drive failing hearts too hard. The stimulation changed the influence of the nervous system on the heart by increasing heart rate variability and suppressing sympathetic nervous system activity.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital finds that patients with frequent ED visits for acute heart failure syndrome account for disproportionate costs and service utilization. The research highlights the need for better outpatient care to prevent repeat ED visits and reduce hospitalizations.
A new UCLA-led research study has found that racial and ethnic minorities who receive implantable devices to treat heart failure derive the same substantial survival benefit as white patients. The study, involving over 15,000 patients, monitored two years of data from a registry to improve heart failure therapies in outpatient settings.
A systematic review found that heart failure is a substantial health burden in low- and middle-income countries, with significant variation in presentation, causes, and management across different regions. The study also highlights the need for more research attention to address this public health issue.
A new clinical trial has been initiated to assess gene therapy for patients with heart pumps, with the goal of improving heart function. The trial will evaluate the effectiveness of a gene therapy that increases SERCA2a protein levels in heart muscle cells, providing potential relief from advanced heart failure.
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown cardiac molecule that can block a protein causing genetic disruptions in the heart. By restoring levels of this molecule, progression to heart failure was stopped in mice. The molecule, known as Myheart, controls a protein called BRG1 and may lead to a compound for human trials.
Researchers found that adding potassium supplementation to loop diuretics increases survival rates by 16 percent in patients receiving at least 40 mg/day of furosemide. The benefit is more pronounced with higher diuretic doses. While the study's findings are promising, further independent studies are needed to confirm these results.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women may derive greater benefits from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) compared to men. The CRT device helps regulate the heartbeat, improving symptoms and quality of life for individuals with heart failure.
Research suggests that a systolic blood pressure range of 120-139 is optimal for reducing stroke, heart attack, and heart failure risk. The study found no additional benefit in lowering blood pressure below 120 for patients with hypertension.
A study published by the American Heart Association found that eating moderate amounts of processed red meat increases the risk of incidence and death from heart failure in men. The study, which included over 37,000 men aged 45-79, found that those who consumed the most processed red meat had a 28% higher risk of heart failure compared...
A new study found that healthcare providers are reluctant to discuss end-of-life care with heart failure patients, citing discomfort and lack of time. However, experts emphasize the importance of open communication in easing anxiety and improving patient outcomes.
Many breast cancer patients fail to receive treatment for heart problems despite having a higher risk of complications, according to a recent study. Researchers found that only about one-third of older breast cancer patients saw a cardiologist within 90 days of developing heart issues.
A study found that preventive implantation of ICDs in patients with less severe heart failure (LVEF 30-35%) significantly reduces mortality rates at 3 years compared to those without an ICD. The analysis also showed improved survival in patients with LVEF < 30%.
A study from Duke University Medical Center found that implantable cardioverter defibrillators improve survival among heart failure patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction of 30-35%. The device reduces three-year mortality rates by 3.6% in patients without ICDs.
Researchers at Temple University School of Medicine are working on three projects to investigate key molecular mechanisms in heart failure, aiming to develop new therapies. The projects focus on signaling pathways implicated in cardiac injury and repair, with the goal of having new treatments ready for patients.
Research reveals that increasing heart failure severity is associated with a higher risk of developing diabetes. Patients with more severe heart failure were found to be three times more likely to develop diabetes than those with milder cases.
The IN-TIME trial found that home telemonitoring reduces mortality and worsening clinical outcomes in both ICD and CRT-D patients. Patients with advanced heart failure and low ejection fractions reap similar benefits from this technology, suggesting it may be a valuable treatment option.
A novel device implanted under the skin has been shown to treat central sleep apnea (CSA) in heart failure patients, improving sleep and heart function. The remede system reduced AHI, improved cardiac endpoints, and increased quality of life.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute identified a heart-specific form of protein BIN1 responsible for sculpting tiny folds in pockets on the surface of heart muscle cells. These microfolds trap chemicals controlling heartbeat, protecting against arrhythmia and heart failure.
A recent study found that patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have a higher risk of heart failure hospitalization, with rates more than doubling during periods of activity. The research suggests that efficient IBD treatment may lower this risk, and highlights the need for cardiovascular risk assessment in these patients.
A post-hoc analysis of the TOPCAT trial showed that spironolactone reduced cardiovascular mortality and hospitalizations for heart failure in patients from the Americas, but not in those from Russia and Georgia. The treatment also increased serum creatinine and hyperkalemia rates.
A study found that COPD patients have a significantly higher risk of heart failure compared to the general population, with African-American patients facing the highest risk. The study also revealed disparities in treatment and outcomes for patients with both conditions.
Research finds increased heart attacks and atrial fibrillation among younger patients, especially women, during the Greek financial crisis. The study suggests that stress and lack of social insurance may have contributed to the surge in cardiovascular admissions.
Heart failure is a leading cause of hospital admission, particularly in older adults. The RELAX-AHF study found that worsening symptoms (worsening heart failure) during hospitalization can lead to longer stays and increased risk of readmission or death. Targeting worsening heart failure may help reduce these adverse outcomes.
The RELAX-AHF trial found that poor diuretic response is associated with worse in-hospital and post-discharge clinical outcomes. Patients who do not respond well to diuretics have less relief from dyspnoea and a higher risk of cardiovascular death or rehospitalisation.
A new study shows that negative iron balance is a common occurrence in patients with acute heart failure and is associated with higher mortality rates. The researchers propose a new measure for iron deficiency, which takes into account both stored and utilised iron levels.
A study presented at the Heart Failure Congress 2014 found that sleeping pills prescribed to heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) increase their risk of cardiovascular events. The study also showed that HFpEF patients who were prescribed high blood pressure medications had a lower risk of cardiovascular event...
The PARADIGM-HF trial was stopped early due to a statistically significant reduction in primary composite endpoint and cardiovascular mortality. LCZ696 demonstrated benefits by blocking the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and augmenting endogenous natriuretic peptides, offering an alternative to the gold standard treatment enalapril.
Researchers found sildenafil's benefits for female mice modeling human heart failure varied with estrogen levels, but were generally ineffective. In contrast, male mice showed improved cardiac health due to sildenafil's effects on cGMP pathways independent of estrogen.
The Heart Failure Association calls for global policy change to address the growing burden of heart failure, which affects millions worldwide. The organization emphasizes the importance of prevention, awareness among healthcare professionals, and equitable care for all patients.
A new study finds that women who experience early menopause at ages 40-45 are 40% more likely to develop heart failure than those who enter menopause between 50-54. Smoking also significantly increases the risk of heart failure in these women.
Researchers at Hebrew University of Jerusalem found Erbin acts as a brake against excessive heart muscle growth. The protein's damage leads to decreased function and severe growth, which may be targeted for cardiac gene therapy in heart failure and breast cancer patients.
In a randomized clinical trial, eplerenone significantly reduced the composite primary endpoint of cardiovascular mortality, re-hospitalization, or heart failure in patients with acute ST-elevated myocardial infarction. The study found lower levels of biomarkers BNP/NT-proBNP in the treatment group.
Researchers found that long noncoding RNAs distinguish between two major types of heart failure and change expression patterns after LVAD support. These RNA molecules may play a role in coordinating the regulation of multiple genes involved in heart function.
The TOPCAT trial found that spironolactone did not reduce the composite time to death or hospitalization in patients with preserved ejection fraction. However, it significantly reduced hospitalizations for heart failure, providing important insights into its potential efficacy.
A recent study published at EuroHeartCare 2014 found that poor sleep doubles the risk of unplanned hospitalizations in patients with heart failure. The researchers analyzed data from nearly 500 patients and discovered that those with chronic sleep problems were two times more likely to be hospitalized than those without sleep issues.