Research on heart attacks and their treatment. Covers care for older patients, cardiac rehabilitation, rapid testing, and updated diagnostic definitions.
A study published in JAMA found that a specific genetic variation in the COX-2 gene is associated with a reduced risk of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. The -765GC polymorphism was more prevalent in controls than in patients, resulting in a 52% lower relative risk of MI and a 67% lower relative risk of ischemic stroke.
Researchers at Yale University found that losing a job near retirement age significantly increases the risk of stroke. The study, which analyzed data from six years of the national Health and Retirement Survey, identified 457 workers who were either laid off or left jobless due to a plant shutdown.
A large-scale national trial led by Duke University Medical Center researchers found that exercising reduced the risk of death and non-fatal heart attacks in heart attack patients who were depressed or socially isolated. The study followed 2,078 patients and compared their outcomes to those who did not exercise.
Researchers at the University of South Florida have developed a biosensor-regulated gene therapy that protects heart muscle cells from further injury after a heart attack. The therapy uses an oxygen-sensitive switch to turn on protective genes, which were shown to limit tissue scarring and improve heart function in mice.
Researchers found that blood-forming stem cells lodge in damaged hearts but retain their blood-forming fate, contradicting earlier findings. The study suggests that these cells may not be able to transform into muscle cells, but could still offer some potential for treating heart attack patients
Researchers developed a neural network software that predicts the best dose strategy for individual patients based on 17 characteristics. The new approach showed potential for dose prescription improvement, reducing risk of adverse side effects.
A recent study found that HIPAA compliance severely affected patient participation in long-term outcome studies, with a significant drop from 96.1% to 38.5%. This reduction resulted in a less representative sample of patients, which could bias study results.
Cardiologists at Duke University Medical Center found that aggressive therapies such as anti-clotting drugs and invasive procedures were not used adequately in patients with conflicting blood chemical results. Patients with positive troponin levels had increased mortality, while those with elevated CK-MB but negative troponin did not h...
A study of 2,800 Medicare patients found that hospitals implementing the ACC's Guidelines Applied in Practice (GAP) Project reduced mortality rates by 25% at 30 days and one year. The project improved care through standardized tests, drugs, and lifestyle advice.
Emory researchers discovered significant racial and gender disparities in heart attack treatment, with African-American women receiving the least aggressive care. The study analyzed records of over 672,000 white and black patients younger than 75 and found no trend towards improvement in recent years.
A recent study found that over half of patients with heart failure could benefit from implanted cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), but Medicare's current guidelines exclude them. ICDs can prevent sudden cardiac death by monitoring heart rhythm and shocking the heart back into a normal pace.
A study of over 15,000 insured patients found that less than half were taking beta blockers regularly after a heart attack. The researchers highlight the importance of long-term adherence to the drug for its benefits.
A recent study published by the NIH found that implantable defibrillators significantly reduce deaths in patients with moderate to severe heart failure. The study, which included over 2,500 participants, showed that implanted defibrillator therapy reduced deaths by 22%, while amiodarone therapy did not have a significant impact.
During the winter holiday period, heart attack patients admitted to U.S. hospitals have higher mortality rates and are less likely to receive effective treatments such as aspirin and beta blockers. The researchers believe that the U.S. healthcare system is not adequately staffed during the holidays, leading to reduced treatment options.
Duke University Medical Center researchers found a significant correlation between hospitals' adherence to national guidelines for treating potential heart attacks and improved patient outcomes. Hospitals in the top 25 percentile of adherence had a mortality rate of 4.17 percent, compared to 6.33 percent at lagging hospitals.
A study by Duke University Medical Center researchers found that state-mandated continuing medical education (CME) programs for physicians have little association with improved heart attack care outcomes. However, CME-required states showed a significant increase in the use of branded thrombolytic therapies, which may be influenced by ...
A study of 11,645 patients in community hospitals found that only 18.7% were transferred to tertiary facilities with invasive care capabilities within 48 hours, highlighting a crucial weakness in cardiac care delivery. Non-transferred patients were more likely to have comorbidities and receive suboptimal medications.
A recent five-year study found that simvastatin therapy significantly reduces the incidence of ischemic strokes by 30%, while having no adverse effect on hemorrhagic strokes. The study also shows a substantial reduction in combined major vascular events among patients with cerebrovascular disease.
A University of Iowa study suggests that blocking the action of a certain protein involved in inflammation might be beneficial for organ transplantation, heart attacks, and possibly stroke. The study found that selective inhibition of this protein can prevent tissue damage caused by ischemia/reperfusion injury.
Researchers found that insulin can reduce concentrations of C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A by 40% and 50%, respectively, during the 48 hours following a heart attack. Insulin also appeared to stem the increase of plasminogen activator inhibitor and reduced creatinine kinase levels, indicating improved heart muscle protection.
A recent study found that high-dose vitamin therapy had no effect on preventing recurrent strokes and heart attacks. The VISP study involved 3,680 adults who received either a low or high dose of folic acid, B6, and B12 vitamins.
A new study by Cornell University's Liam O'Neill found that distance from a hospital significantly impacts access to medical facilities and outcome for heart attack victims. The study estimates that patients living far from hospitals face a higher risk of death from heart attacks, with approximately 60% expiring before reaching the hos...
Elevated PlGF levels in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and acute chest pain indicate a significantly increased risk of heart attack or death at 30 days. Measuring PlGF levels may provide a powerful clinical biomarker for vascular inflammation and adverse outcome in ACS patients.
A new tele-electrocardiography system is being tested in Santa Cruz County ambulances to detect ischemia and heart damage. The system, which uses a 12-lead cardiac monitor and cell phone technology, has already provided meaningful results for patients, including a 43-minute reduction in treatment time for one patient.
A study found that the terrorist attack led to an increase in heart attacks and cardiac arrhythmias, with patients experiencing psychological stress showing higher rates of these events. The findings suggest that drugs like beta blockers may help reduce the risk for people with heart disease and risk factors.
Researchers found that women with hypertension in the SYMPHONY trials received more and different agents to reduce blood pressure than men, yet showed no significant difference in blood pressure control. The study highlights opportunities for improving medical therapy and outcomes in women.
The use of clopidogrel in addition to aspirin significantly reduces the risk of recurrent heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular death. The cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that at least one year of therapy with clopidogrel is an attractive value for patients at risk.
Researchers discovered that a growth factor, granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), can increase the number of stem cells in the heart, which may help repair damaged heart tissue. After six weeks, patients showed significant improvements in heart function and metabolic recovery.
A new study found that patients living in neighborhoods with high poverty rates had a 30% higher death rate after a heart attack. Researchers analyzed data from the Worcester Heart Attack Study, which included 2,539 confirmed cases of heart attack collected between 1995 and 1999.
A new analysis of over 10,000 patients with unstable angina or non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction found that the newer low molecular weight heparin enoxaparin improved outcomes compared to unfractionated heparin. The study also showed a reduced risk of death or non-fatal heart attack in patients treated with LMWH.
A joint effort by Michigan hospitals led to improved delivery of proven medications, reduced use of potentially toxic dye, and lower risk-adjusted rate of in-hospital death. The project also showed reductions in unnecessary use of a blood thinner after the procedure.
A Phase II clinical study of TP10 found that the complement inhibitor significantly reduced heart attacks and death in male patients undergoing open heart surgery. The study showed a significant decrease in composite endpoints for death, myocardial infarction, and prolonged intubation in males treated with TP10.
Researchers develop new approach to treating extreme artery blockages using G-CSF treatment. Insurance disparities are found in diabetic minorities with a lack of coverage driving disparities in preventive care.
A new study found valsartan therapy to be as effective as ACE inhibitors in reducing cardiovascular risk after a heart attack. Combining the two medications showed no additional benefit, but was associated with more adverse events.
Researchers have successfully treated heart attack patients with stem cells harvested from their own bone marrow, resulting in improved cardiac function and increased blood flow to the damaged area. This breakthrough therapy could potentially lead to a new treatment for heart attacks.
Researchers found that exposure to fine particles of less than 10 micrometers increased the risk of heart attacks in smokers, even at levels lower than current national standards. Air pollution levels in Dijon remained under four on the ATMO index 86 percent of the time.
The Get With The Guidelines Coronary Artery Disease (GWTG-CADSM) program improved treatment quality for heart attack patients by increasing the use of aspirin and beta-blockers. Gender gaps in treatment were also reduced, with more women receiving life-saving therapies.
Women with heart attacks tend to have milder blockages in their arteries but are less likely to receive aggressive drug therapy or undergo procedures like angioplasty. This disparity may be due to the disease itself, rather than bias against women's treatment.
Researchers found that unusual fatigue was the most common early symptom reported by women before their heart attacks, with 70% of cases. The study's lead author emphasizes the importance of educating women about new symptoms and seeking medical care to determine their cause, especially those with known cardiovascular risks.
Patients with a history of coronary disease are at high risk of experiencing acute coronary events, including unstable angina and heart attacks, after aspirin withdrawal. Aspirin therapy is essential in reducing the risk of developing acute blockage in coronary arteries.
Researchers found that EPO reduced programmed cell death in heart cells, leading to smaller infarcts and increased heart function. The study suggests that EPO may offer novel protection against ischemic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome.
Heme flooding can shut down cell membrane channels, killing neurons and constricting blood vessels. Researchers found a chemical called NS1619 restores channel function and may lead to a new treatment.
Mt. Sinai researchers found that aspirin significantly reduces the risk of a first heart attack in apparently healthy individuals by one-third. The study's findings support treatment guidelines issued by the American Heart Association and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, recommending aspirin use for those at high risk.
Researchers found that oxygen-sensitive genes in cardiac fibroblasts transform into myofibroblasts, critical for wound healing after a heart attack. The newly formed myofibroblasts help replace damaged tissue.
Researchers discovered that 'hot pepper' receptors on the heart trigger symptoms of heart attack and may lead to new treatments for angina pectoris. The study found that these receptors cause blood vessels to constrict and increase blood pressure, leading to chest pain.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research and National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute have launched three research programs to address heart attack resuscitation, cellular imaging, and thrombotic disorders. The programs aim to improve cardiovascular disease treatment outcomes, particularly in developing countries.
A recent study of 118 heart patients found that while they made significant progress reducing fat intake, many failed to adopt a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. After two years, only 23% were meeting the recommended daily intake, highlighting the need for targeted nutrition education.
A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine found that women have higher levels of anxiety after a heart attack compared to men. The researchers also discovered that both men and women under age 60 reported higher anxiety levels, while older individuals experienced lower anxiety due to their expectation of illness.
A large study found that estrogen replacement therapy prolongs the QT interval, increasing risk for arrhythmia and heart problems. Women who used hormone therapy had a 50% higher odds of QT prolongation compared to those who never used hormones.
A blood test could identify biological markers that indicate the onset of a heart attack or stroke, leading to life-saving intervention. Researchers are developing a diagnostic tool using 'sick cells' markers, which may be available in three to five years.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have triggered a protective immune response in mice, significantly reducing atherosclerosis by 60% through immunization. The study aims to develop a vaccine to interrupt the inflammatory process and prevent heart attacks and strokes.
A study of over 5,980 women aged 67 or older found that breast cancer survivors had 34% fewer hospitalizations for heart attacks than non-survivors. The protective effect increased with higher cardiac risk factors, suggesting that female hormone levels may play a role in preventing heart disease.
A recent study found that treating heart disease patients for depression and low social support does not improve their overall survival rate. However, the treatment did lead to significant improvements in quality of life, with depressed patients experiencing a 57% reduction in depression symptoms after six months.
Researchers found that treatment helps reduce depression and feelings of isolation in patients, but it does not change the risk of future heart attacks or death. Half of the study participants received psychological counseling and behavioral therapy, while the other half got standard medical care.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that treating depression and social isolation in heart attack patients does not improve survival rates, but significantly improves quality of life. The ENRICHD trial followed 2,481 heart attack patients with depression or low social support for 29 months.
A UK multi-centre randomised trial found that statins reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes or revascularisation operations by about a third in diabetic patients, irrespective of their cholesterol levels. This could prevent at least 10,000 heart attacks, strokes and revascularisation operations each year worldwide.
A new blood test can detect heart attacks in just five minutes with a 99% accuracy rate, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The test identifies two proteins associated with the earliest stages of a heart attack, reducing unnecessary hospital stays.
A new study found that current low-dose oral contraceptives significantly increase plasma concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory biomarker associated with cardiovascular disease. CRP levels were two times higher among OC users than non-users, regardless of diet assignment or phase of the menstrual cycle.
Researchers have found a potential genetic link between variations in the beta-2 receptor gene and a reduced risk of heart attack and death from coronary disease. The study, published by the American Heart Association, suggests that individuals with certain forms of the gene may be more resilient to cardiovascular disease.
The study, published online in the Lancet, found that atorvastatin significantly reduces the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes in people with high blood pressure. The results are great news for those suffering from high blood pressure, as the drug also lowers cholesterol levels.