Research from the field of heart medicine. Covers light exposure and heart health, lifestyle and longevity, and regional cardiology care.
A study published in JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology found a significant correlation between periodontitis and fibrosis in the left atrium, which can lead to atrial fibrillation. Researchers suggest that periodontal care could aid in comprehensive management of atrial fibrillation.
Researchers identified a panel of novel blood biomarkers associated with sudden cardiac arrest, which have the potential to enhance clinical prediction. Additionally, an AI-powered ultrasound technology can accurately identify coronary artery calcium buildup, potentially replacing CT scans as a diagnostic tool.
The number of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in the US rose significantly between 2019 and 2020, with Asian, Black and Hispanic populations most affected. The largest single-year increase since 2015 was seen in CVD deaths among these populations, highlighting structural and societal disparities.
A Michigan Medicine study found that hospitals with the highest stroke care designation reported significantly higher rates of stroke detection after TAVR. The study suggests that comprehensive stroke centers are better at detecting smaller strokes, but this does not necessarily mean they are finding more strokes overall.
A recent study found that Black and Hispanic veterans experienced longer wait times for cardiology and orthopedic services compared to white veterans, highlighting racial disparities in healthcare access
Researchers discovered that female and male mouse hearts react uniformly at first to noradrenaline but exhibit differences in recovery time, affecting electrical activity. These findings may contribute to arrhythmia susceptibility between men and women, offering new insights into sex-based responses to stress hormones.
Recent national data analyzed by leading cardiology and cardiothoracic surgical researchers found that the rate of successful repair has reached over 90% in the US, with an extremely low risk of mortality across nearly all age ranges. A novel risk model was developed to predict 30-day outcomes based on patient health conditions.
A large clinical trial supported by the National Institutes of Health found that two widely used diuretics, furosemide and torsemide, did not differ in improving patient survival when compared. The study suggests a need for better treatments for heart failure patients and highlights the importance of optimizing diuretic doses to improv...
Researchers found that patients with low comorbidity groups who received more frequent phone calls had improved outcomes, including reduced mortality and longer hospital stays. The intervention involved regular calls from nurses to monitor patient response and address any unusual symptoms.
A recent study found that patients treated at centers that don't perform transplants have a 79% higher odds of being denied bridge-to-transplant designation. This change could exacerbate existing disparities in access to heart transplantation, according to the research team.
A new analysis by Cedars-Sinai investigators shows that similar levels of COVID-19 antibodies are reached over an extended period of time in different population groups. Individuals with autoimmune diseases and solid organ transplant patients experience lower long-term antibody levels.
A new study reveals that shockwave intravascular lithotripsy (IVL)-assisted transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) can effectively treat severely calcified mitral valves in patients with severe stenosis and regurgitation. Post-procedural imaging showed progressive valve frame expansion, increased valve area, and resolution of MR.
Researchers from Osaka University found that tricaprin supplementation leads to remarkable regression of coronary artery plaque and resolution of symptoms in patients with triglyceride deposit cardiomyovasculopathy. The study's findings provide a novel treatment concept for coronary atherosclerosis.
A new study found that approximately three percent of all bone scan patients have markers of cardiac amyloidosis, which can lead to heart failure and increased mortality. The research highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, as well as potential automated detection methods using machine-learning algorithms.
The procedure requires thorough pre-procedural evaluation and assessment of anatomical and hemodynamic data. Long-term results indicate that TPVR can effectively restore RVOT function, while improving survival rates and reducing the need for reintervention across age groups. Vigilant testing is recommended to avoid rare but serious com...
Researchers from Kyushu University found that evening hot spring bathing is associated with a lower prevalence of hypertension among Japanese older adults. The study analyzed data from over 11,000 residents over 65 and discovered that those who bathed in onsen after 19:00 were 15% less likely to have hypertension.
Cardiology organizations propose modernizing randomized clinical trials using streamlined approaches, digital technology, and real-world data to enhance efficiency, safety, and innovation. The goal is to improve patient care and address unmet medical needs, particularly for diverse populations.
Researchers will investigate the relationship between heart function and aorta stiffness to identify risk factors for heart failure in Hispanics/Latinos, who are disproportionately affected by this condition. The study aims to develop new methods for predicting and preventing heart failure in underrepresented populations.
A new study found that a machine learning-based blood test can accurately predict an individual's entire diet over 19 food groups, outperforming traditional methods. The test, which uses molecular profiling, also identifies who is more likely to develop diabetes and cardiovascular disease based on each food group.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that patients with depression are less likely to adhere to essential medical therapies following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The study examined over 124,000 patients who underwent PCI and were diagnosed with depression, revealing a significant proportion of individuals with...
As people age, their health care needs become more complex, making it essential to consider anatomical and functional changes when diagnosing and treating ACS. An individualized and patient-centered approach is best for older adults, considering coexisting conditions and input from multiple specialists.
A new study found that extreme temperatures are linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular death, particularly heart failure, which was the leading cause of death globally. The research analyzed data from 32 million cardiovascular deaths in 567 cities across 27 countries between 1979 and 2019.
Dr. Urbut's award-winning research explores a new framework to predict coronary artery disease throughout an individual's lifespan, incorporating genomic and nongenomic risk factors. The American Heart Association recognized her innovative work in improving cardiovascular disease prevention.
A pilot study found that incorporating yoga into a regular exercise routine reduces systolic blood pressure and resting heart rate, improving 10-year cardiovascular risk. Yoga was more effective than stretching exercises alone in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
A Cedars-Sinai study found that even subtle forms of liver disease directly impact heart health, with elevated FIB-4 scores associated with abnormalities in heart function and vascular dimension. Cardiac MRI scans revealed that nearly 86% of patients had at least one heart abnormality.
The use of smartwatches to screen for faulty heart rhythms needs more evaluation, according to a cardiologist. Smartwatch detection of AF can often point to cases of the disorder, but substantial work is needed to integrate this consumer-received information into optimized care. Recent studies have reported low rates of irregular heart...
Researchers discover a shared genetic basis between fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), with males more likely to develop AAA when a family member has FMD. The study suggests that screening for AAA in male relatives of patients with FMD may be beneficial, along with established guidelines.
A lower frequency of adding salt to foods is associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, regardless of lifestyle factors and pre-existing disease. Combining a DASH-style diet with low salt usage further improves heart health.
A new study from Northwestern University found that vitamin D supplements do not significantly reduce statin-associated muscle symptoms, contradicting previous non-randomized studies. The trial involved 2,083 participants and was the first placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial to examine this effect.
A Michigan Medicine study found that Black patients who undergo minimally invasive procedures for clogged arteries are more likely to die or be readmitted to the hospital months after the procedure. Social determinants of health, including community economic well-being and preexisting health conditions, played a significant role in the...
A study found that CPR mannikins depicted in public social media accounts are predominantly white, lean men, lacking representation of diverse groups. The lack of diversity in these models may influence disparities in training and care for patients experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
A study found that seven major cardiovascular societies favor men and white individuals when awarding recognition, with women receiving significantly fewer awards than men across all categories. Researchers attribute this disparity to implicit bias, which may prevent underrepresented groups from advancing in their careers.
A new study from Mount Sinai Hospital finds a strong association between age-related macular degeneration and severe forms of heart disease, including heart failure, heart attacks, and stroke. The study highlights the importance of increased screening for eye disorders to diagnose undetected heart disease.
Inducing a hibernation-like state in mice using Q neuron activation has been shown to protect kidneys from oxygen deprivation and avoid harmful side effects. This technique could lead to new methods of performing heart surgery with reduced organ damage.
Researchers found that exposure to e-cigarettes, marijuana, and tobacco led to increased scarring, decreased blood vessels, and changes in heart nerves, all contributing to an increased risk of arrhythmias. These substances can cause similar harm to the heart as traditional cigarettes.
A study found that males younger than 40 years old who received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine had the highest rates of myocarditis, but overall cases are rare. The study suggests that choosing specific vaccines for certain populations may maximize benefits and minimize adverse events.
A new study has shown that bivalirudin is a safer and more effective anticoagulant than heparin for treating heart attack patients. The trial found that bivalirudin significantly reduced death, major bleeding, and thrombosis in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.
A new study found that long-term treatment with intravenous iron improved symptoms and reduced recurrent hospitalizations among people with heart failure and iron deficiency. The treatment was associated with a significant benefit on reducing the risk of heart failure hospitalization and cardiovascular death.
At AHA22, Smidt Heart Institute experts will cover various cardiology topics, including atrial fibrillation treatment and high-impact trials in intervention and surgery. Experts like Christine Albert, Joanna Chikwe, and Jon Kobashigawa will present their research on the effects of Omega-3 fatty acids and stroke management.
A new troponin test has been developed to help diagnose heart attacks more accurately. By detecting only large troponin molecules, the test can distinguish between heart attacks and other conditions such as renal insufficiency.
A Mayo Clinic study found that clinicians who were high adopters of an AI-enabled clinical decision support tool were twice as likely to diagnose low left ventricular ejection fraction as those who were low adopters. The tool's accuracy was critical in detecting serious health conditions before symptoms appeared.
A new study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that drug-coated balloons outperformed bare metal stents in treating femoropopliteal lesions. The research showed improved 12-month patency and freedom from clinically driven reintervention and major adverse events with drug-coated balloons.
The American Heart Association has selected 52 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students for its Scholars program. The program aims to increase diversity in the healthcare field by providing opportunities for research, mentorship, and leadership development. Accepted students will study social determinants of health ...
Dr. David Kass, a Johns Hopkins professor, has advanced understanding of heart disease and its treatments through pioneering clinical studies and molecular research. His work has led to the development of new therapies for heart failure, obesity, muscular dystrophy, and potentially immunotherapy for cancer.
Researchers found a significant increase in heart disease deaths among adults in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study attributed this rise to factors such as lockdowns, lack of physical activity, increased smoking and alcohol use.
A new daily anti-clotting pill, edoxaban, shows promise in preventing bleeding and clotting instances rare in children with heart conditions. The study's findings indicate edoxaban is a viable alternative to current treatments, eliminating injections and reducing frequent blood tests.
A study of over 1.3 million young Asian American adults hospitalized for atrial fibrillation found a significant increase in obesity and other modifiable cardiovascular disease risk factors. Young adults with at least one cardiovascular risk factor were almost three times more likely to be hospitalized for atrial fibrillation.
A study found that living in a food desert increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and early death for people with PAD. People with PAD living in food deserts were 17% more likely to experience a major cardiac event compared to those with better nutrition access.
A study of over 2,600 young heart attack survivors found that those who experienced more perceived discrimination had a higher risk of worse health outcomes. The research suggests that perceived discrimination acts as a chronic stressor that adversely impacts cardiovascular disease.
Researchers analyzed 30 years of cardiovascular mortality data from the US and UK, finding that lead exposure contributes more to CVD death risks in the US. The study also revealed a steady decline in cardiovascular deaths associated with all environmental factors in both countries.
Researchers found that vaping and smoking e-cigarettes led to greater constriction of the brachial artery and worse heart rate variability, indicating activation of the sympathetic nervous system. Vaping was also associated with poorer performance on exercise stress testing compared to non-nicotine users.
Research found social vulnerabilities such as poverty and minority status linked to increased cardiometabolic risk during pregnancy. The study analyzed nearly 19 million pregnancies in US counties from 2016-2020 and found that four leading cardiometabolic risk factors were associated with some social vulnerability.
A new exercise-testing approach detects asymptomatic cardiovascular abnormalities in pediatric cancer survivors, highlighting the need for routine monitoring before symptoms appear. The method assesses exercise data through a combination of peak and submaximal parameters simultaneously.
An AI-based model has been developed to assist radiologists in detecting and identifying leadless implanted electronic devices (LLIEDs) on chest X-ray images. The model achieved high detection and classification accuracy, even with suboptimal image quality, and showed promise for real-world deployment.
The American Heart Association honored Drs. Harriette Van Spall and Erica Gunderson with the 2022 Dr. Nanette K. Wenger Research Goes Red Award for their groundbreaking study on sex-specific clinical outcomes of heart failure patients. The research found that women experienced improved outcomes after receiving transitional care service...
Dr. Ivor Benjamin is recognized for his decades-long commitment to cardiovascular science, with a focus on proteostatic networks, stem cell biology, and redox homeostasis. He has led numerous initiatives to expand biomedical research and patient care, aiming to reduce health disparities and improve healthcare equity.
Dr. Mike Weisfeldt, a renowned cardiologist, will receive the American Heart Association's Eugene Braunwald Academic Mentorship Award for his efforts to increase diversity in cardiology and promote inclusivity. The award recognizes his leadership in recruiting underrepresented groups and fostering an equity-first approach in medicine.
Dr. Eldrin F. Lewis, a clinician scientist at Stanford University School of Medicine, has been awarded the 2022 Clinical Research Prize by the American Heart Association. His work focuses on improving quality of life and care delivery models for patients with heart failure through point-of-care initiatives.
A novel screening tool has been developed to diagnose a serious heart condition in young athletes. The tool uses non-invasive ultrasound techniques to accurately identify cardiomyopathy, reducing false positives and providing better protection for the athletes of tomorrow.
Researchers found that adult heart cells have fewer communication pathways called nuclear pores, which may protect against harmful signals but prevent regeneration. This discovery sheds light on why adult hearts do not regenerate like newborn mice and human hearts.