Vascular Diseases
Articles tagged with Vascular Diseases
Global hypertension study finds fight against high blood pressure falling short
Large-scale Nordic study discovers link between polycystic ovary syndrome and heart disease
New study finds low-dose eye drops successful in managing adult myopia for 24 hours
A new study published in Eye and Vision finds that one drop of low-dose atropine can produce daylong effects in managing myopia. The researchers found that the drop showed clear changes in pupil size and focusing ability, but no short-term structural effects on the eye.
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.
Second call for entries: Applications still open for the 2026 Semmelweis–Richter journalism Award
The 2026 Semmelweis-Richter Journalism Award is now open for entries, with a focus on high-quality health journalism and its impact across Europe. Journalists can submit articles in two categories until June 9, 2026, with a total prize fund of €45,000.
One protein, two roles
Researchers found that Adgrl2 plays a crucial role in building both brain synapses and blood vessels, with different cell types producing distinct versions of the protein. Removing Adgrl2 from endothelial cells caused blood vessels to become leaky and lose their integrity.
Low-dose triple-pill cut risk of recurrent stroke by about 40%, global trial shows
A global trial involving 1,670 patients with intracerebral haemorrhage found that treatment with a single pill combination of three low-dose blood pressure medicines reduced the risk of another stroke by 39%. The study showed significant benefits in reducing major cardiovascular events and improving blood pressure control.
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.
Having more kids associated with reduced risk of stroke and brain damage, research co-led by UT Health San Antonio shows
A new study co-led by UT Health San Antonio found that having three or more live births is associated with a reduced risk of stroke and brain damage in women. The research suggests that reproductive factors, such as the number of live births, may be an important predictive factor in assessing stroke risk in women.
New anti-clotting medication lowers risk of stroke without added bleeding
A large international study found that asundexian reduces the risk of a stroke in people who recently experienced a non-cardioembolic stroke or TIA without increasing bleeding. The medication works differently from existing anti-clotting drugs by blocking Factor XIa, a protein involved in harmful clot formation.
Pivotal study of minimally invasive stent therapy shows improved quality of life for patients with blood clots
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients with post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) who received stent treatment showed significant improvement in their condition and quality of life. The study, C-TRACT, enrolled 225 patients and compared two treatment strategies.
Sleep patterns may reveal hidden heart risks
Research from Flinders University finds that people with sleep apnea who experience dramatic night-to-night breathing problems are 30% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. The studies suggest that repeated changes in oxygen levels and sleep disruption can quietly stress the heart and blood vessels over time.
Small-volume hypertonic saline plus furosemide linked to lower inflammatory and remodeling markers in acute heart failure
Treatment with i.v. furosemide plus HSS significantly decreased serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers IL-6, sST2, hsTnT, galectin-3, and NT-proBNP. The study found that this combination therapy modulated some miRNA expression and was associated with reduced miR181b expression compared to furosemide alone.
UTEP study: Six weeks of boxing training significantly lowers blood pressure in young adults
A UTEP study reveals that six weeks of boxing training can reduce blood pressure and improve vascular function in young adults with elevated blood pressure or Stage 1 hypertension. The results show significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, comparable to those achieved through medication.
Applications open for the 2026 Semmelweis–Richter Journalism Award highlighting women’s health and pharmaceutical innovation
The 2026 Semmelweis–Richter Journalism Award invites journalists to submit work highlighting critical health issues, particularly cardiovascular therapies. The prize fund is €45,000, with winners announced in July 2026.
King's research team secures funding to advance ultrasound-led detection of congenital heart disease
Researchers at King's College London have been awarded £191,000 to enhance the prediction of aortic coarctation by adapting their established biomarker from MRI to ultrasound. The goal is to improve the accuracy of CoA diagnosis before birth using routine 2D scans.
Taking pressure off the lungs
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered that targeting the CNP/GC-B signal pathway may provide a promising approach for treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). The study reveals that CNP/GC-B signaling plays a protective role against PAH, and administration of CNP ameliorates experimental pulmonary hypertension.
Vascular smooth muscle cells-specific BCAT2 deficiency attenuates diabetic atherosclerotic calcification via histone propionylation
This study reveals the regulatory role of BCAT2-mediated BCAA catabolism in VSMCs and its impact on intraplaque calcification in diabetic atherosclerosis. BCAT2 deficiency attenuates vascular calcification severity, decreases calcium salt deposition, and suppresses osteogenic phenotypic transition of VSMCs.
Functional photoacoustic microscopy reaches super-resolution by tracking red blood cells
Researchers developed a high-speed photoacoustic microscope to track red blood cells in the mouse brain, allowing for single-cell resolution imaging of microvascular structures. This enables study of cerebral small vessel disease, cognitive impairment and dementia.
Society of Interventional Radiology publishes practice guidance for treatment of chronic pelvic pain
The Society of Interventional Radiology has published new practice guidance for treating chronic pelvic pain in women with venous-origin disorders, emphasizing interventional radiology's role in care. The guidance provides evidence-based recommendations on diagnosis, treatment options, and imaging.
Study identifies opposing roles for IL6 and IL6R in long-term mortality
A recent study found that higher IL6 levels are associated with increased mortality, while genetically higher IL6R levels reduce all-cause mortality through cardiovascular mechanisms. The researchers suggest that IL6R antagonism may be a potential strategy for preventing cardiovascular disease.
New research finds heart health benefits in combining mango and avocado daily
A new study found that adding one avocado and a cup of mango to daily meals and snacks for eight weeks improved vascular function among adults with prediabetes, while also reducing diastolic blood pressure. The Avocado-Mango diet showed significant increases in flow-mediated dilation and nutrient-dense nutrients without changes in calo...
Scientists map brain's blood pressure control center
A group of nerve cells in the brainstem has been identified as a stabilizing system for blood pressure, preventing fluctuations between daily activities. The study suggests that loss or dysfunction of these cells can lead to unstable blood pressure and is associated with conditions such as multiple system atrophy.
Critical crosstalk between blood vessels and immune system, showing shared pathways in major diseases
The review outlines how vascular-immune crosstalk affects various diseases, revealing novel therapeutic opportunities. It highlights the shared embryonic origin of blood vessel cells and immune cells, as well as coordinated immune cell trafficking mechanisms.
Telehealth in cardiovascular care
High blood pressure: trained laypeople improve healthcare in rural Africa
A study in Lesotho shows that trained laypeople can achieve better blood pressure control in their community compared to normal treatment in healthcare facilities. The layperson-assisted model was found to be safe and effective, reducing hospital admissions and improving access to healthcare for underserved rural communities.
From surface to depth: 3D imaging traces vascular amyloid spread in the human brain
Advanced 3D imaging reveals that vascular amyloid deposition follows a specific pattern, starting from surface vessels and spreading inward along connected pathways. The study provides new insights into the spatial organization of amyloid pathology in cerebral amyloid angiopathy.
Targeting the “good” arm after stroke leads to better motor skills
A new randomized clinical trial found that training the less-impaired arm significantly improved movement coordination, speed and control in chronic stroke survivors. The study showed that motor skills in the less-affected arm can be improved even years after a stroke occurs.
Aortic hemiarch reconstruction safely matches complex aortic arch reconstruction for acute dissection in older adults
Ascending aortic hemiarch replacement is comparable to extended arch reconstruction for patients over 65 with acute type A aortic dissection. The study found no significant difference in long-term survival or surgical reintervention rates between the two procedures.
Dr. Vinay Badhwar elected President of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons
Vinay Badhwar, MD, was elected President of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons with a three-part framework emphasizing daily practice excellence, data-driven science, and measurable impact. He aims to advance collaboration across surgical disciplines and integrate the specialty into the broader healthcare ecosystem.
Study examines prediction of surgical risk in growing population of adults with congenital heart disease
Researchers analyzed cases in the STS Adult Cardiac Surgery Database to identify factors predicting postoperative risk. The study found that 16.7% of adults nationwide with CHD were considered high-risk for operative mortality and serious complications after redo cardiac surgery.
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.
New AI tool improves treatment of cancer patients after heart attack
A new AI tool has been developed to predict the chances of death, major bleeding, or another cardiac event in cancer patients who have had a heart attack. The ONCO-ACS score combines cancer-related factors with standard clinical data to provide individualized treatment recommendations.
Late-breaking study establishes new risk model for surgery after TAVR
A late-breaking study at the STS Annual Meeting presents a new risk model for surgery after TAVR, showing declining operative mortality over time. The model demonstrated excellent accuracy for predicting surgical TAVR explant risk, providing valuable evidence for improving patient care and treatment strategies.
How your lifestyle can affect your risk of dementia
A new study from Lund University finds that modifiable risk factors like smoking and high blood pressure can damage brain blood vessels and increase dementia risk. Living a healthy lifestyle may help delay symptom onset in Alzheimer's disease.
Smoke from wildfires linked to 17,000 strokes in the US alone
Research links long-term exposure to wildfire smoke with increased risk of stroke in US adults, estimating around 17,000 annual cases. The study suggests wildfire smoke may be more harmful than pollution from other sources, and highlights the need for preventative measures.
Stroke warning signs often overlooked in pregnancy
A quarter of pregnant patients suffering stroke symptoms were misdiagnosed due to overlooked warning signs, according to a new study. The researchers highlight the need for better clinician education and decision-support tools to improve maternal health outcomes.
Embargoed: New evidence points to potential treatment for vascular dementia
Researchers at the University of Vermont discovered that adding a missing phospholipid back into the circulatory system could restore normal brain blood flow and reduce symptoms of dementia. Boosting PIP2 levels may become a new treatment strategy to enhance brain function and prevent neurovascular diseases.
Baveno VII guidelines: shaping the future of portal hypertension management
The Baveno VII consensus guidelines have reshaped portal hypertension management, focusing on early intervention and noninvasive diagnostics. Nonselective beta-blockers and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) are recommended for clinically significant portal hypertension diagnosis.
AI model helps diagnose often undetected heart disease from simple EKG
Researchers developed an AI model that can detect coronary microvascular dysfunction using a common electrocardiogram, outperforming previous models in diagnostic tasks. The model can accurately identify a condition often missed in emergency department visits, providing a cost-effective and non-invasive way to diagnose serious heart co...
Glycation stress promotes arterial stiffening and is reversed by a natural compound in aging mice
Researchers found that glycation stress, caused by methylglyoxal, promotes aortic stiffening and cellular senescence. Natural compound Gly-Low, containing nicotinamide and alpha-lipoic acid, reversed these effects and reduced stiffness in aging mice.
Switching immune cells to “night mode” could limit damage after a heart attack, study suggests
Researchers identified a way to suppress daily fluctuations in immune cells' activity, which may prevent tissue damage during daylight hours. A drug that targets neutrophils was found to alleviate inflammation and protect against infections.
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.
Persistent inequity in survival after atrial fibrillation
A new Danish study reveals that social inequities in survival after atrial fibrillation have remained unchanged over the past 20 years. Individuals with low income, education, and social relationships live significantly shorter lives than those with high-income backgrounds.
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.
Sons of mothers with type 1 diabetes show early signs of vascular dysfunction
A new study reveals that sons born to mothers with type 1 diabetes show early signs of vascular dysfunction in their blood vessels, even before metabolic health is affected. The research suggests that this sex-specific effect could help clinicians assess risk and prevent cardiovascular disease earlier in life.
Studies confirm that drug-coated balloons can replace stents – even in larger coronary arteries
A new international study confirms that drug-coated balloons can effectively treat larger narrowed blood vessels, offering a safer alternative to stents. The findings validate the method developed by Professor Bruno Scheller and demonstrate its efficacy in treating arteries with diameters larger than 2.75 mm.
A new patch could help to heal the heart
MIT engineers have developed a programmable drug-delivery patch that can reduce damaged heart tissue by 50 percent and improve cardiac function. The patch is designed to release different drugs at specific times, promoting healing and regeneration of cardiac tissue.
Study links genetic variants to higher 'bad' cholesterol and heart attack risk
A new resource identifies genetic variants associated with elevated 'bad' cholesterol, a major contributor to heart disease. Clinicians can now predict patient risk for heart attacks and strokes, allowing for prevention and early treatment.
CRF and Fogarty Innovation announce strategic merger
The merger strengthens CRF's leadership in medtech, integrating Fogarty's expertise in early-stage innovation. The unified platform will accelerate breakthroughs into patient care, driving global progress in cardiovascular medicine.
Hanyang University researchers develop novel sensor for continuous endoleak monitoring
A team of researchers has proposed a novel ultrathin flexible sensor inserted endovascularly to detect Type-I endoleaks with maximum rupture risk. The sensor is robust enough to withstand dynamic processes and exhibits long-term stability and functionality.
Elevated dickkopf 3 promotes abdominal aortic aneurysm formation via modulated phenotype switch of vascular smooth muscle cells
Research reveals DKK3's role in AAA progression through phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells, driven by the TGFβ3-Smad2/3 axis. This study identifies DKK3 as a potential therapeutic target for maintaining VSMC homeostasis in AAA.
Post-traumatic vasospasm: An overlooked threat after brain injury
Post-traumatic vasospasm (PTV) is a sudden narrowing of brain arteries that can lead to stroke and long-term neurological damage. Early diagnosis using tools like transcranial Doppler ultrasound and S100 protein blood tests is crucial to prevent secondary brain injury.
University of Houston co-leads $25 million NIH-funded grant to study the delay of nearsightedness in children
Researchers are testing whether low-concentrate atropine drops can delay the onset of myopia in children. The study aims to reduce the risk of sight-threatening complications later in life by decreasing how nearsighted someone becomes.
Mount Sinai receives $8 million from DataPhilanthropy to accelerate drug discovery for CADASIL and related brain disorders
The Mount Sinai Health System has received an $8 million grant from DataPhilanthropy to fuel urgently needed research into CADASIL, a genetic disease associated with migraines, strokes, cognitive decline, and dementia. The center will focus on extending brain healthspan and preventing dementia in individuals with genetic risk for cereb...
Major report tackles Covid’s cardiovascular crisis head-on
The report makes recommendations for diagnosing, treating and preventing serious heart and blood vessel complications linked to the virus. Structured cardiac rehabilitation programmes are also recommended to prevent long-term problems after infection and aid recovery from long Covid.
Intense light therapy may lower risk of myocardial injuries after non-cardiac surgery
A study published in Annals of Translational Medicine found that intense light therapy can lower troponin levels and increase ANGPTL4 protein, protecting heart tissue. The treatment may reduce the risk of myocardial injuries after non-cardiac surgery, which affects 20% of patients and increases one-year mortality rates.
Advances in ultrasound drive gains in prenatal heart defect detection, but regional gaps remain
The study found that detection rates of congenital heart disease have improved due to advances in ultrasound screening practices, with added specific views helping detect more defects before birth. However, detection rates still vary by region and type of defect, highlighting the need for continued improvements in prenatal care.
High triglycerides drive life-threatening aortic aneurysms, study in mice finds
A study in mice found that high triglyceride levels directly cause abdominal aortic aneurysms, challenging the notion that they are merely biomarkers of vascular disease. Researchers identified specific proteins and lipoproteins as causal drivers of aneurysm development and growth.