Articles tagged with Cardiology
Natural supplements taken by athletes may pose serious health risks, including cardiovascular effects and contravention of anti-doping rules. Athletes often have limited knowledge about supplement effects on sports performance and overall health.
The USPSTF recommends against screening for atrial fibrillation in asymptomatic adults aged 50 or older. The current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening, which is associated with a substantial increase in stroke risk. Atrial fibrillation is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke.
A review published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that implementing lifestyle interventions in preschool can significantly improve cardiovascular health habits in children. The SI! Program, which included more than 3,800 children aged 3-5 years from 50 schools across three countries, showed a significant inc...
The Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF) will host THT 2022 from February 1-2, 2022. The conference features new and emerging treatments for heart failure, including transcatheter approaches and innovative monitoring strategies.
Researchers analyzed 6,800 cases of sudden cardiac death in the UK, finding a significant association between sexual intercourse and sudden death in young individuals. The study also identified key cardiac conditions that increase the risk of sudden death during or immediately after sex.
A new PET/CT artificial intelligence model has been developed to predict the risk of future heart attacks with improved accuracy. By combining information from PET and CT angiography, the model provides a more robust prediction of heart attack risk than clinical data alone.
A study found that consuming more than 7 grams of olive oil per day is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative, and respiratory disease mortality. Replacing margarine, butter, mayonnaise, and dairy fat with olive oil was also linked to improved health outcomes.
Research in mice suggests that first-responder cells launching repair after a heart attack promote more inflammation than necessary, threatening optimum healing of the heart.
Researchers developed a computer model of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, shedding light on its mechanism and substrate specificity. This knowledge creates opportunities for therapeutic interventions against cardiovascular disease.
Research finds GNAO1 expression affects calcium ion regulation in cardiomyocytes, leading to cardiac dysfunction and heart failure progression. Suppression of GNAO1 improves pathology in multiple mouse models.
A recent study published by Queen Mary University of London has found that certain risk factors for heart disease are linked to changes in the structure and appearance of the heart. The research analyzed images from over 30,000 people's heart MRI scans using a new imaging toolkit called radiomics.
A new Northwestern University study has derived and validated the first set of risk prediction models for lifetime risk of heart failure. The models can identify individuals at greatest risk, especially among young adults, allowing physicians to start prevention measures sooner.
A study by Osaka City University found that the Kihon Checklist is a useful tool in assessing frailty in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement. The checklist, originally developed for Japan's long-term care insurance system, correlated with clinical scores to identify patients at high risk of mortality.
A clinical trial found that remote monitoring of medication's potential arrhythmic side effects is feasible and safe for patients with mild COVID-19. The study used handheld devices to transmit digital ECGs, suggesting a potential expansion of clinical research to broader populations and reducing participants' burdens.
A new study from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that family members of children with life-threatening conditions are 50-70% more likely to experience mental and physical health issues. The study examined four types of life-threatening conditions and found mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers to be at higher risk.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that fetal MRI can detect at least one other abnormality in almost 57% of fetuses with heart defects. Additionally, approximately a quarter of all fetuses had structural brain abnormalities, regardless of the severity of the heart defect.
A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that frail patients with atrial fibrillation are under-prescribed for direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), a safer alternative to traditional warfarin treatment. Despite needing DOACs most, these patients are less likely to receive them than non-frail patients.
A recent study found significant inequities in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), a medication typically used for treating diabetes, among different racial and ethnic groups. The study, published in JAMA Health Forum, showed that Black patients were 19% less likely to have a GLP-1 RA prescription compared to white patients.
Scientists have found that the gene PBK is overexpressed in pulmonary hypertension, causing excessive cell proliferation and thickening of pulmonary artery walls. They are now exploring PBK inhibitors to reduce cell proliferation and improve heart and lung function.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that omega-3 fatty acids activate the GPR32 receptor, which reduces inflammation in blood vessels and prevents atherosclerosis. This breakthrough discovery paves the way for new strategies to treat and prevent cardiovascular disease using omega-3 fatty acids.
The international consensus statement provides critical recommendations for the cardiovascular management and follow-up of patients undergoing radiation therapy. The paper highlights the need to identify and address cardiovascular risk factors to prevent cardiotoxicity, emphasizing the importance of regular screening and treatment for ...
The new guideline recommends a patient-centric approach to managing patients with coronary artery disease, incorporating clinical indications and multidisciplinary team decision-making. The guideline aims to improve quality of care and reduce disparities in treatment, particularly among women and underrepresented racial or ethnic groups.
A study examining autopsy tissue samples from COVID-19 patients found frequent and extensive blood clots within heart vessels, but no typical endothelial cell changes. Instead, hypercoagulability of the blood caused by activated neutrophils was detected as a likely culprit.
A survey of UK cardiology trainees reveals that bullying is a pervasive problem, with 1 in 10 reporting being subjected to abusive behavior. Women and those who qualified outside the UK are disproportionately affected, highlighting a need for targeted measures to address workplace bullying in medicine.
Researchers found that most cases of suspected COVID-19 vaccine-related myocarditis in people younger than 21 are mild and resolve quickly. The study suggests that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination far exceed the rare risks of adverse events, including myocarditis.
Women with breast implants after mastectomy are at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease due to chemotherapy and radiation. Inaccuracies in cardiac imaging studies, such as echocardiography and nuclear tests, have been reported in some cases.
The new nine-part focus seminar series aims to address racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare through proven strategies such as team-based care and positive partnerships. The researchers emphasize the importance of social determinants of health and social justice approaches to improve health equity in cardiology.
A novel AI algorithm developed at Mayo Clinic can predict long-term patient survival after cardiac surgery using a single-lead EKG. The study found a clear correlation between long-term mortality and a positive AI ECG screen for reduced left ventricular ejection fraction among patients without apparent severe cardiomyopathy.
A new meta-analysis published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology suggests that Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors can improve outcomes for heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction. The medication has been shown to reduce the risk of death from heart-related causes and hospitalization by 22%.
A new study found that only alcohol consumption consistently triggers episodes of atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition. The study used an individualized testing method, where participants tested various triggers, including drinking alcohol and caffeine, to find the most effective ways to manage their AF.
A nationwide observational study published in Circulation found that lower levels of income and education are associated with reduced chances of survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The study analyzed data from 31,373 cases of OHCA between 2010 and 2017, showing a correlation that was observed in both men and women.
A new Northwestern Medicine study reveals that smokers are more likely to die from cardiovascular disease than lung cancer. Smokers are at risk of fatal heart attacks, strokes, or heart failure without warning signs.
A Medicare claims data analysis revealed that TAVR programs in major metropolitan areas struggle to serve disadvantaged populations. Zip codes with higher proportions of Black and Hispanic patients had significantly lower rates of TAVR compared to more affluent neighborhoods.
A study of 4,700 older adults found that those with social support had a lower likelihood of prolonged nursing home stays after a sudden health change. Having identifiable social support was associated with improved outcomes and reduced risk of extended care.
A new risk score developed by Mount Sinai researchers can help predict possible contrast-associated acute kidney injury among patients undergoing PCI. The 'Mehran-2 CA-AKI Risk Score' enhances management of high-risk patients before, during, and after the procedure.
Alice K. Jacobs, a professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine, received the James B. Herrick Award for Outstanding Achievement in Clinical Cardiology from the American Heart Association. Her work on Mission: Lifeline has saved thousands of lives by increasing timely access to primary percutaneous coronary intervention.
A NIH-funded study found that patients with a two-step surgical approach for 'leaky heart valves' had better short-term outcomes, but were more likely to need a pacemaker. The procedure involved repairing the tricuspid valve at the time of mitral valve surgery, and results showed reduced risk of death, reoperation, or severe regurgitat...
Research found that adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes and atrial fibrillation were less likely to notice irregular heartbeat symptoms, had a lower quality of life, and experienced more co-occurring health conditions than those without diabetes. This delay in diagnosis may lead to more complications such as stroke.
A new study suggests that the recommended approach for preventing blood clots after stent placement may not be as beneficial as previously thought. The researchers found that the risks of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) may now outweigh its benefits for most patients, due to improvements in stent technology and changes in patient demo...
A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) guided by fractional flow reserve (FFR) did not meet noninferiority for one-year outcomes compared to bypass surgery. However, FFR-guided PCI performed favorably in patients with low SYNTAX scores and less complex disease.
The OPT-PEACE trial found that dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) followed by single anti-platelet therapy (SAPT) results in less gastrointestinal mucosal findings than continued DAPT. SAPT also reduces clinical GI bleeding and new ulcers compared to DAPT.
A randomized trial comparing plug-based and suture-based vascular closure techniques after TAVR found that the plug-based technique had a shorter time to hemostasis but higher access-site complications. The study, CHOICE-CLOSURE, reported similar mortality rates between both groups.
The SWISS-APERO Trial compared Amulet with Watchman FLX devices for percutaneous left atrial appendage closure. Both devices achieved similar LAA occlusion rates at 45 days, but with different mechanisms. However, Amulet was associated with higher procedural complications and lower peridevice leak rates than Watchman FLX.
A team of researchers from Flinders University has developed a single mathematical equation that can accurately model and predict the behavior of ventricular fibrillation, a life-threatening heart rhythm. The equation uses principles from renewal theory to predict the population dynamics of 'rotors' found in the heart during VF.
Patients with diabetes undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have lower target lesion failure rates with amphilimus-eluting stents compared to zotarolimus-eluting stents. At one year, amphilimus-eluting stents met the criteria for noninferiority and superiority over zotarolimus-eluting stents.
A new clinical syndrome of ICI-myocarditis has been identified, characterized by highly arrhythmogenic features. The study establishes specific electrocardiographic features to diagnose and prognosticate the syndrome, highlighting the need for further research on prediction and monitoring strategies.
A new study found that QFR-guided PCI resulted in lower one-year rates of heart attack and a lesser chance of needing additional PCI, with a 35% reduction in mortality. The technology helped eliminate unnecessary stents and identified more obstructive lesions.
Researchers at Penn Medicine have made a major advance in understanding dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a common and fatal heart disorder. The largest single cause of DCM involves the mutation of the gene that encodes titin, leading to abnormalities in heart muscle cells.
Women face unique socioeconomic barriers that set back their cardiovascular health early in life, increasing risk of heart attack and stroke. These disparities can be mitigated through policy changes, community support, and diversification within the cardiology workforce.
Male smokers have a lower rate of blood pressure control than female smokers, according to a study by the American College of Cardiology. Smoking cessation is key to improving health outcomes, with studies showing that quitting smoking can lead to better adherence to treatment and improved cardiovascular care.
A new guideline from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology recommends using standardized risk assessments and clinical pathways to evaluate chest pain. Most adults presenting with chest pain will have a non-cardiac reason, while only a small percentage will have an acute coronary syndrome.
A study of 9,739 adults found that those with stable overweight and obesity had elevated cardiac troponin I levels, a marker of subclinical heart injury. Long-standing obesity is associated with injurious effects on cardiac health before symptoms occur.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh and Prairie View A&M University developed an algorithm to repurpose cancer drugs for pulmonary hypertension, a devastating lung disease. Two compounds improved human cells and rodent markers, supporting broader drug-repurposing platform use.
A new AI-based computer algorithm created by Mount Sinai researchers can identify subtle changes in electrocardiograms to predict heart failure. The algorithm was 94% accurate at predicting healthy ejection fractions and 87% accurate at detecting weakened hearts, offering a promising alternative to traditional diagnosis methods.
A survey of cardiologists reveals that while underrepresented minorities are satisfied with their careers, they face discrimination, exclusion, and burnout. The study highlights the need for support systems to address systemic barriers.
A recent review published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that flu vaccination can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals with heart disease. Despite higher mortality rates from influenza, many Americans under 65 with heart disease have low vaccination rates.
Researchers have discovered three new genetic variants linked to fibromuscular dysplasia, which affects women in their prime and is often associated with high blood pressure and cardiovascular complications. The study provides new insights into the disease's genetic basis and potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers have discovered that estimated pulse wave velocity is an effective tool to refine risk stratification of hospitalized patients with Covid-19. The study found that the addition of ePWV to clinical predictive markers improved prognostic value for in-hospital mortality.
A study of 7,512 pregnancies in women with congenital heart disease found no maternal deaths, but more health complications for mothers and babies compared to a control group. Babies born to CHD mothers had an increased risk of stillbirths, low birthweight, and major visible abnormalities.
A study published by the American College of Cardiology found a significant inverse relationship between oral health and COVID-19 severity, as well as delayed recovery and increased inflammation in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Researchers recommend maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent or decrease COVID-19 disease severity.