Research from the field of heart medicine. Covers light exposure and heart health, lifestyle and longevity, and regional cardiology care.
A new study reveals a high incidence of youth with cardiovascular risk factors but inadequate resources to provide preventive care. Pediatricians and policymakers must address these gaps by investing in pediatric preventive cardiology and increasing collaboration between programs.
Researchers found that African ancestry patients with dilated cardiomyopathy have fewer clinically actionable variants in DCM genes compared to European ancestry patients. The study enrolled 1,198 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, revealing a racial imbalance in genetic trials for heart failure.
A study found that breast cancer patients with higher body mass index (BMI) are more likely to experience heart damage, or cardiotoxicity, during chemotherapy. The study suggests that addressing obesity and considering the potential risk of cardiotoxicity requires a comprehensive approach.
The conference will focus on optimizing patient care in the Latin America region, discussing strategies to improve heart health and address rising cardiovascular disease rates. Key topics include cardiac rehabilitation, heart failure management, and practical approaches for clinicians.
A Northwestern University study found that only 60% of women with heart disease risk factors received counseling on optimizing their heart health during their six-week postpartum visit. The study highlights the need for improved access to care and increased awareness of maternal cardiovascular health monitoring.
A study published in Science reveals that ganglia in the neck region are responsible for disrupting melatonin production and causing sleep disturbances in people with heart conditions. Researchers found that macrophages accumulate in the ganglion, leading to inflammation and scarring, which can be treated with drugs.
The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology recommend a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle to prevent worsening health in people with chronic coronary disease. Clinicians should coordinate care between cardiovascular and primary care professionals, emphasizing team-based approach and social determinants of health.
Massachusetts General Hospital researchers discovered that concentrating moderate-to-vigorous physical activity into one to two days per week, or the
A new study reveals that Black patients with ICDs have a significantly higher rate of post-implant cardiac events and risk of death compared to white patients. The study also shows that Black patients are more likely to discontinue medications after one year, but the reasons for this are unknown.
Researchers at NIST and their colleagues used machine learning to identify abnormal cardiac rhythms in firefighters, achieving 97% accuracy. The Heart Health Monitoring model could lead to a portable heart monitor to detect early warning signs of heart trouble and prevent fatal cardiac events.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that alerting volunteers can increase bystander CPR and AED use, leading to improved survival rates. The volunteer system increased rates of CPR and defibrillation in out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, giving victims a higher chance of receiving early care.
Researchers developed an AI model that accurately classifies six types of valvular heart disease using chest radiographs, with high accuracy rates. The model's potential applications include supplementing echocardiography in areas where specialists are scarce and improving emergency care.
The SAFE-MCS study evaluates the safety of complex high-risk PCI using the Impella Heart Pump in conjunction with the Saranas Early Bird Bleed Monitoring System. The primary clinical endpoint is the incidence of access site-related Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type III or V bleeding.
A new study reveals that biscuspid aortic valve is caused by mutations in the MINDBOMB1 gene, with significant implications for developing alternative treatments to surgery. The research combines genome sequencing and gene editing techniques to analyze the mechanisms of this congenital defect.
A large Swedish study found that higher cardiorespiratory fitness may lower the incidence and mortality rates of certain cancers in men. The researchers suggest prioritizing CRF interventions for individuals with low fitness levels.
The inaugural issue of CHEST Critical Care focuses on clinically relevant research and patient management guidance for critical care medicine. The journal accepts submissions of original research, case series, and research letters, covering topics such as intensive care medicine and diverse populations.
A new study published in JAMA found that bempedoic acid can reduce major adverse cardiovascular events in high-risk primary prevention patients who cannot tolerate recommended doses of statins. The treatment has the potential to improve outcomes for these patients, providing a new option for primary prevention.
A new analysis of the CLEAR Outcomes Trial found that bempedoic acid lowered LDL cholesterol levels by 21% and reduced cardiovascular events by 13%. This suggests that different classes of cholesterol drugs have similar benefits for cardiovascular health.
The TCT 2023 Program Guide features four days of innovation and cutting-edge science in interventional cardiovascular medicine. The event marks 35 years of leading the field and will gather top researchers and clinicians to present evidence-based research.
Chronic exposure to low levels of contaminant metals through household items, air, water, soil, and food increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Monitoring environmental metal levels and testing for exposure are key steps to implement public health initiatives.
A study presented at the American College of Cardiology's Care of the Athletic Heart conference found that only 50% of athletes surveyed reported knowing what sudden cardiac arrest is or being concerned about it during play. The researchers identified 46 cases of sports-related cardiac arrests between 1984 and 2022 involving CPR, with ...
A new study found that most adults with Type 2 diabetes in Alabama Medicaid did not receive follow-up healthcare within the recommended two-week period after a heart failure hospitalization. African American and Hispanic adults were particularly affected, with worse follow-up care compared to white adults.
Researchers at Lund University have mapped the location where atherosclerotic plaques rupture, identifying an enzyme marker that could predict patients at risk of myocardial infarction or stroke. The study's findings may lead to preventive treatments and new therapies.
The British Junior Cardiologists' Association (BJCA) and the British Cardiovascular Society (BCS) have issued a joint policy statement to address bullying, harassment, and discrimination in UK cardiology departments. The statement emphasizes that every team member has a duty to call out inappropriate behaviors to drive culture change.
Research reveals that chronic heart rate failure during exercise is a common reason for long-term exercise intolerance in Long COVID patients. The study also found a correlation between early post-COVID inflammation biomarkers and reduced exercise capacity, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
A new study confirms the safety and success of transcatheter edge-to-edge procedures for repairing leaky mitral valves. The minimally invasive procedure was shown to be successful in nearly nine out of ten patients, with strong safety and efficacy outcomes despite advanced age and comorbidities.
A new Northwestern University study finds that CT scans are more effective than genetics in predicting the risk of heart disease in middle-aged individuals. The study used data from over 3,200 adults and found that adding CT scan data to conventional risk factors improved the accuracy of risk prediction.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has created a new recognition program, 30 in Their 30's, to celebrate the contributions of early-career interventional cardiologists. The award highlights leadership and demonstration of SCAI's core values.
Njambi Mathenge has been selected as the recipient of the SCAI-WIN CHIP Fellowship, offering her additional year of advanced training focusing on complex and high-risk coronary intervention. She will pursue her fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
Dr. George Dangas has been appointed as the new President of SCAI, a non-profit professional association promoting excellence in interventional cardiovascular medicine. He is an authoritative voice on nonsurgical cardiovascular and valve interventions, and will fulfill various responsibilities including acting as spokesperson for SCAI.
SCAI has elected George D. Dangas, MD, MSCAI, as its new president, succeeding Suni V. Rao, MD, MSCAI. Dr. Dangas will lead the society in advancing interventional cardiology and promoting excellence in patient care.
A new device invented by Emile Daoud and his team at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center significantly reduces the risk of esophageal injury during heart ablation. The device uses suction force to gently move the esophagus away from the catheter tip, creating a safe pathway for treatment.
The new guideline provides guidance on the use of cardiac resynchronization therapy and conduction system pacing in patients with indications for pacemakers or heart failure. The authors emphasize the importance of shared decision-making between providers and patients, and highlight areas for future research.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) recognized outstanding interventionalists with the Master Interventionalists of SCAI (MSCAI) designation. The recipients demonstrated excellence in invasive/interventional cardiology, innovation, publication, and teaching.
A study analyzing European guidelines found that patients with specific characteristics may benefit from longer-term treatment with multiple blood thinners. High-risk patients experienced higher rates of complications due to blood clotting, emphasizing the need for personalized care.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has awarded Early Career Research Grants to two junior interventional cardiologists, Nadia Sutton and Eric Secemsky. Their projects focus on high-priority topics in cardiovascular disease, including coronary microvascular dysfunction and peripheral vascular interventions.
The next-generation Evolut FX TAVR system shows improved deliverability, tracking, and deployment compared to its predecessor. This is particularly beneficial for patients with difficult anatomies, where the new device's predictable deployment can improve coronary access, blood flow, and valve performance.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) has released an expert consensus on the management of in-stent restenosis and stent thrombosis. The guidelines emphasize frequent use of intracoronary imaging to determine the precise etiology and guide selection of treatment options.
SCAI honored J. Dawn Abbott, MD, FSCAI and Douglas E. Drachman, MD, FSCAI with the Mason Sones Award for Distinguished Service for their efforts in education and quality of care. The Society also recognized Theodore A. Bass, MD, MSCAI, and Lee N. Benson, MD, MSCAI with lifetime service awards for their substantial contributions to SCAI.
A third-party analysis found that Impella support led to a greater extent of revascularization and lower heart failure and angina symptoms in patients undergoing high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The study showed a 40% greater reduction in residual SYNTAX Score post-PCI with Impella compared to IABP.
The use of drug-coated balloons (DCBs) in coronary angioplasty is gaining importance, particularly for treating in-stent restenosis. Newer devices are being developed, and upcoming trials aim to enhance the evidence base for DCB treatment, especially in patients with de novo disease.
A study found that heart transplant patients receiving organs from active COVID-19 positive donors had increased risk of death at six months and one year compared to those receiving organs from recently recovered COVID-19 patients and COVID-19 negative patients.
A study funded by the National Institutes of Health found that vigorous exercise is safe for people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a rare inherited disorder affecting the heart muscle. The research, published in JAMA Cardiology, suggests that restrictions on exercise may be unnecessary for individuals with HCM.
A global clinical trial found that bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) are nearly as safe and effective as conventional metal stents in treating coronary artery disease. The study, led by a researcher from the Mount Sinai Hospital, showed improved outcomes for patients when properly implanted.
A new study found an initial decline in diabetes mellitus plus cardiovascular disease-related mortality, but it reversed from 2014 to 2019. The researchers emphasized the need for primary prevention of diabetes and early diagnosis to prevent cardiovascular complications and mortality.
Researchers developed a new tool to predict heart disease risk in those over 40 based on their total exposure to heart disease risk factors. The study found that black patients have a 46% greater risk of developing heart disease compared to white patients.
International emergency medical services received the Andreas Grüntzig Ethica Award for their exceptional contribution to interventional cardiovascular medicine and patient care. The award highlights the importance of EMS networks in facilitating effective treatment of STEMI patients.
The latest clinical evidence on TAVI in younger patients with aortic stenosis will be discussed, including factors that determine the choice between TAVI and surgical aortic valve replacement. Valve design and implantation technique can also influence long-term outcomes and future treatment options.
The study used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure acute pressure changes inside the heart, discovering that pressure increases when patients receive a specific medication called adenosine. This technology can help doctors better diagnose and monitor patients with heart disease and heart failure.
A recent study found that healthy dietary patterns are strongly associated with improved fitness in middle-aged adults. The study, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, examined over 2,380 participants and found that a Mediterranean-style diet with fresh whole foods and minimal processed items led to higher cardio...
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions is launching a program to introduce future physicians to interventional cardiology. The Ready to Launch - Careers in Cardiology program will host medical students from the Phoenix area and provide them with impactful conversations, training paths, and hands-on demonstrations.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm called CathEF to estimate left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from standard angiogram videos, providing real-time information for clinical decision-making. The tool was trained on a large dataset and demonstrated strong correlations with echocardiographic LVEF measurements.
EuroPCR 2023 brings together experts in interventional cardiovascular medicine to share knowledge, skills, and innovations. The event features 220 workshops, live-streamed sessions, and a scientific abstract competition.
Dr. Miaomiao Zhang's research aims to automate late mechanical activation detection from cardiac magnetic resonance images using machine learning and AI techniques. This could lead to more accurate placement of CRT electrodes and improved patient outcomes.
The Texas Heart Institute and The University of Texas at Austin receive a four-year, $2.37 million NIH grant to develop injectable hydrogel electrodes for preventing and managing ventricular arrhythmias. Researchers have already demonstrated the feasibility of pacing the heart using the hydrogel in a porcine model.
A new onsite deep-learning based FFR-CT algorithm demonstrates excellent diagnostic performance, with high interobserver and intraobserver reproducibility. The algorithm showed AUC of 0.975, sensitivity of 93.5%, and specificity of 97.7% for hemodynamically significant stenosis.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) air pollution is associated with an increase in hospital procedures for heart failure patients, including stress tests and prothrombin time tests. This suggests that high PM2.5 exposure may lead to increased cardiovascular morbidity and promp...
The program guide for TVT 2023 showcases over 200 world-renowned faculty experts, with a focus on clinical decision-making and strategies for treating valvular heart disease. The summit highlights the latest advances in transcatheter valve therapy and nonsurgical procedures.
A study supported by the National Institutes of Health found that younger women are nearly twice as likely to be rehospitalized after a heart attack as men. The disparity is largely due to higher rates of risk factors such as obesity and depression among women, which contribute to more adverse outcomes.
A long-term analysis reveals that approximately one-third of CTEPH patients also have left heart disease, which can worsen breathing symptoms and requires more comprehensive diagnostic approaches. The study suggests that treatment options for both conditions may overlap, necessitating further research to find effective therapies.