Articles tagged with Cardiology
Switching from high-potency DAPT (ticagrelor) to less potent clopidogrel after 30 days reduced major cardiac events, including heart attacks and strokes. In a study of over 2,700 patients, de-escalation was shown to be safe and more effective than continuing on ticagrelor.
The conference presents novel findings on associations between physical activity and quality of life in patients with coronary heart disease, as well as the effect of loneliness on lifestyle modification in heart patients. Experts share top tips on supporting behavior change and motivating patients to maintain self-care.
A Canadian survey found that a significant proportion of cardiology trainees are uncomfortable with using telemedicine, highlighting the need for better preparation and supervision. Experts propose developing a telemedicine curriculum to address this educational gap and ensure trainees can provide high-quality virtual outpatient care.
A new study found that moderate alcohol intake is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, possibly due to reduced stress-related brain activity. The findings suggest that low or moderate drinking may be beneficial for heart health without the drawbacks of excessive drinking.
A study found that psychological distress after a heart attack doubles the risk of subsequent cardiac events in younger adults. Researchers also discovered an association between inflammation and cardiovascular risk among patients experiencing high distress.
A new study found that women with possible heart attacks are triaged less urgently, wait longer to be seen, and undergo fewer tests than men. Women were also less likely to receive cardiac monitoring or be seen by a consultant.
A new phone-based app facilitated more efficient hospital intakes for patients with STEMI, leading to faster treatment times and reduced damage. The average time between EMS arrival and PCI was about 11 minutes shorter among cases where the app was used.
A recent study published in the American College of Cardiology's annual scientific session found that black patients from disadvantaged neighborhoods are more likely to die after a heart attack. The study analyzed data from nearly 32,000 patients with health insurance treated for a heart attack between 2006-2016.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) recognized four outstanding interventionalists with the Master Interventionalists of SCAI (MSCAI) designation. The recipients, Ian C. Gilchrist, Eberhard Grube, and Carey Kimmelstiel, have demonstrated excellence in invasive/interventional cardiology through their clin...
A new study found that patients with severe mitral regurgitation who undergo transcatheter edge-to-edge mitral repair (TEER) may need surgical intervention if treatment fails. Up to 95% of these patients cannot have their valves repaired and require mitral valve replacement.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions recognized three outstanding interventionalists, Dr. Ian C. Gilchrist, Dr. Eberhard Grube, and Dr. Carey Kimmelstiel, with the Master Interventionalists of SCAI (MSCAI) designation for their excellence in invasive cardiology. The designations acknowledge their commitment to c...
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions has released updated consensus guidelines on best practices in cardiac catheterization laboratories. The new recommendations focus on patient-centered approaches, staff qualifications, and quality metrics to optimize outcomes. The document covers topics such as pre-procedure ...
A large study found that increasing physical activity levels is associated with a reduced likelihood of heart events and mortality in people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Participants who showed moderate to large improvements in physical activity were 30% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease or die ...
Research found that shift workers with a deviated body clock had higher cardiovascular risk, even after adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors. The study's findings suggest that staff with atypical work schedules may need closer monitoring for heart health.
An observational study of nearly 20,000 individuals found that greater intake of red and processed meat is associated with poorer heart function and stiffer arteries. In contrast, higher consumption of oily fish was linked to improved heart function and healthier arteries.
The International Conference on Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac CT (ICNC-CT) showcases cutting-edge research and clinical applications in cardiovascular imaging. The conference highlights advancements in machine learning, imaging techniques, and artificial intelligence to improve patient care.
Recent scientific studies reveal electronic cigarette use carries significant cardiovascular risks, particularly for young non-smokers. Cardiovascular specialists advocate for laws restricting ECs to youth and banning flavored products to mitigate these risks.
At EuroCMR 2021, experts presented novel research on using hypnosis to enable claustrophobic patients to undergo CMR, the effect of weight loss on heart function in obese people, and improving detection of cardiotoxicity in lymphoma survivors. CMR is also revealing sex differences in how the heart adapts after a myocardial infarction.
A large study of over 100,000 adults found that leisure time physical activity was associated with a 26-40% reduced risk of death, while work activity had the opposite effect. The researchers suggest that occupational activities often do not sufficiently increase heart rate to improve fitness and may even increase blood pressure.
A large study found that nearly 30% of patients with coronary artery disease have diabetes, significantly higher than the general population. Patients with heart disease and diabetes had worse outcomes, including a 38% higher risk of death during a five-year follow-up.
A study examining remote cardiology clinic visits during COVID-19 found disparities in patient use of care, diagnostic testing, and medication prescribing. The transition to remote visits was associated with uneven access to care, highlighting the need for improved healthcare infrastructure.
A study found that young adults with inflammatory conditions like psoriasis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis are twice as likely to experience fatal heart attacks. Researchers also discovered that patients with these conditions were less likely to be prescribed aspirin and statins after a heart attack.
The EHRA Congress explores the latest practice-changing research in heart rhythm disorders, with a focus on digital technologies, arrhythmias, and cardiac devices. Season of birth affects health, weight loss after atrial fibrillation treatment can stop arrhythmia, and remote monitoring promotes patient empowerment.
Physicians report various symptoms, including chest pain, arrhythmias, and organ damage, in COVID-19 patients experiencing lingering effects. The experts emphasize the need for dedicated 'COVID-19 clinics' to provide longitudinal care.
A study found that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality. Researchers analyzed data from the Framingham Offspring Study and classified food items into five categories, including ultra-processed foods, which were linked to a 7% increase in hard ...
Men with stable coronary artery disease who take Viagra live longer and have lower risk of new heart attack compared to those treated with alprostadil. The study's findings suggest a dose-dependent reduction in cardiovascular events.
The European Society of Cardiology's ESC Preventive Cardiology 2021 conference explores the latest research and strategies for preventing heart disease. Experts discuss the role of diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits in maintaining cardiovascular health and identify the most effective ways to promote physical activity and healthy eating.
Researchers at Lund University developed a new examination method using NIRS and IVUS, which identifies high-risk plaques that cannot be seen with traditional angiograms. The study found that over 14% of treated patients experienced heart disease recurrence within four years, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.
Patients with kidney disease who exercised regularly had lower rates of death, heart problems, and end-stage renal disease. The study found that moderate-intensity exercise (150 minutes/week) provided the most health benefits.
Researchers found that statin users had lower inflammation levels and a 50% reduced risk of death from COVID-19. However, randomized clinical trials are still needed to confirm these findings.
Emerging evidence suggests ketone bodies exert protective effects on patients with heart disease, potentially providing a safer alternative to the keto diet. Increasing circulating ketone levels through multiple mechanisms may offer therapeutic advantages in reducing cardiovascular risk factors.
A systematic review found that female patients treated by female physicians experience better outcomes, while those treated by male physicians face higher mortality rates. The study suggests that increasing gender diversity in the physician workforce and improving training on patient-centered communication can help combat disparities.
A recent study by University of Alberta cardiologists shows that patients with stable ischemic heart disease and high-risk cardiac anatomy benefit from revascularization with stents or bypass surgery. This approach leads to better health outcomes, including reduced risk of death or heart attack.
Acute cardiovascular care specialty focuses on critically ill cardiac patients with urgent conditions. ESC Acute CardioVascular Care 2021 presents novel findings on treating heart attacks, differences between men and women in cardiovascular disease, and life expectancy after a heart attack.
A study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that individuals who do not exercise have a higher risk of dying immediately from a heart attack. Regular physical activity was associated with a lower risk of instant and 28-day fatal heart attacks, with moderate to high levels of activity showing significant benefits.
Global heart failure cases rose from 33.5 million in 1990 to 64.3 million in 2017, mainly due to increased risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. The prevalence of heart failure decreased only in high-income countries, while it increased in low- and middle-income countries.
Four leading cardiovascular organizations call for structural actions to reduce air pollutants' harmful exposure, highlighting healthcare providers' crucial role in preventing illnesses. The statement emphasizes the importance of integrating air quality into disease management approaches and educating the public on clean air's benefits.
Hypertension symptoms in women are frequently misattributed to menopause, increasing their risk of heart disease and stroke. Middle-aged women with a history of pregnancy complications or early menopause are particularly at risk.
Researchers found a high prevalence of cardiovascular conditions in male breast cancer patients, including overweight, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. The study highlights the need for cardiologists and cardio-oncologists to be involved in treatment due to common risk factors and potential cardiotoxic effects.
Research found that physical activity does not undo the negative effects of excess body weight on heart health. Even among those who are active, being overweight or obese increases cardiovascular risk.
Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications (CVIA) has published selected abstracts from the 31st Great Wall International Cardiology Conference. The abstracts cover various topics including basic and translational medicine, clinical research on cardiovascular diseases, and cardiovascular-disciplinary research.
Patients diagnosed with non-cardiac chest pain often struggle to accept normal test results due to misconceptions about heart disease. A new study shows that a brief educational intervention significantly improves patient trust and reduces future chest pain episodes.
A study found that patients who climbed four flights of stairs in less than 40-45 seconds achieved more than 9-10 METs during exercise testing, while those who took 1.5 minutes or longer achieved less than 8 METs. This correlation suggests a simple way to assess heart health outside of traditional exercise testing.
A recent study found that only seven percent of high-risk noncardiac surgery patients underwent preoperative screening for biomarkers, leading to increased mortality and complications. Researchers emphasize the need for improved compliance with guidelines and education among physicians.
Patients with atrial fibrillation are advised to avoid heavy alcohol consumption due to increased risk of stroke and other complications. Heavy drinking was associated with a 32% increased risk compared to abstainers, while moderate drinking seemed safe.
The updated HCM guideline emphasizes shared decision-making in the management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It provides recommendations on evaluation and management, medical therapies, septal reduction therapies, and SCD risk assessment/prevention. The guideline aims to personalize treatment options based on patient goals and concerns.
The European Society of Cardiology, Asian Pacific Society of Cardiology, and Asean Federation of Cardiology will present cutting-edge sessions on various aspects of cardiovascular disease. Key findings include discussions on COVID-19, acute coronary syndromes, sports cardiology, and atrial fibrillation.
A study found that social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a significant increase in high blood pressure among patients admitted to emergency departments. The researchers suggest that increased stress, changed behaviors, and limited personal contact may contribute to this link.
The EACVI - Best of Imaging 2020 event showcases cutting-edge research on cardiac imaging, featuring sessions on COVID-19 management and women's heart health. Experts will discuss the use of imaging techniques in patients with COVID-19 and explore fundamental differences between men and women in certain diseases.
Since its 2011 approval, TAVR has become the leading choice for aortic valve replacement in the US, with increasing volumes and improved outcomes. The STS/ACC TVT Registry data show significant reductions in mortality, stroke rates, and length of stay, while pacemaker implantation rates remain stable.
A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that nearly half of type 2 diabetes patients are at very high risk of fatal events within a decade. Lifestyle advice, including quitting smoking, healthy diet and regular exercise, is recommended to prevent cardiovascular disease.
A study published by investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital reveals that patients with type 2 myocardial infarction often receive inconsistent care. The research indicates that patients evaluated by cardiologists are more likely to undergo stress tests and heart imaging exams, and have higher rates of follow-up cardiology visits.
Dr. Nanette K. Wenger is being recognized for her long-term record of successful teaching and mentoring of the next generation of faculty researchers, educators, and healthcare professionals. Her work has significantly improved patient outcomes, particularly in women's heart health.
A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that mothers' cardiovascular health significantly affects their children's risk of developing heart disease. Offspring of mothers with ideal cardiovascular health lived nine more years without cardiovascular disease compared to those with poor health.
Researchers propose adding a new metric to examine how many days patients spend at home after hospitalization, balancing current readmission rates with post-discharge care needs. The proposed '30-day risk-adjusted home time' metric could provide a more comprehensive picture of patient outcomes.
A new report from sports cardiologists at Massachusetts General Hospital and Emory University School of Medicine offers guidance for athletes' return to play after COVID-19. For asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic athletes, detailed cardiac screening is not recommended, but those with moderate to severe symptoms should be screened for h...
Cardiovascular healthcare faces a lack of diversity among its professionals, which hampers innovation and excellence. Women and underrepresented groups are disproportionately underrepresented in the field.
The American College of Cardiology has announced the Hani Najm Global Scholar Awards, allowing two early career cardiologists to train in the US for four weeks. The awards are part of the ACC's Campaign for the Future, aiming to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease worldwide.
Research examines telehealth, health care disparities and patient-centered care during COVID-19 pandemic. Key findings include high patient satisfaction with telehealth visits and increased morbidity and mortality among cardiovascular patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
A clinical trial found that active choice nudges led to significant increases in optimal statin prescribing for patients with heart disease, while passive nudges had no effect. The study suggests that small design changes can improve the impact of alerts, and future research will focus on clinician and patient nudges.