Articles tagged with Cardiology
A clinical trial found that smokers who received nicotine-containing e-cigarettes had a significantly higher quit rate compared to those who received only counseling. Participants using e-cigarettes reduced their daily cigarette consumption by 13 cigarettes per day, with overall quit rates of 21.9% at 12 weeks.
A new study found vericiguat significantly lowers cardiovascular death and hospitalization rates in patients with worsening heart failure. With a median follow-up period of 10.8 months, the drug showed a 10% lower rate of primary endpoint events compared to placebo.
Researchers found evinacumab, a monoclonal antibody, reduced LDL cholesterol to near-normal levels among patients with HoFH, meeting the primary endpoint. Patients achieved an average relative reduction of 49% and nearly half had LDL cholesterol below 100mg/dL.
Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acid EPA found to explain significant reductions in cardiovascular events and deaths among patients taking prescription fish oil. Achieved EPA levels on the drug strongly correlated with lower rates of cardiovascular events.
A recent survey of 2,025 cardiologists found that over a third report feeling burned out, with mid-career doctors and women being the most affected. Burnout is linked to long hours worked and lack of work-life balance.
A statistical analysis predicts that a highly purified fish oil therapy could prevent thousands of cardiovascular events each year. The study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and showed a 25% reduction in cardiovascular events for patients with elevated triglyceride levels.
Researchers investigate coronary microvascular spasm using real-time blood flow velocity measurement during acetylcholine testing. The study aims to provide objective evidence on the existence of coronary microvascular spasm, a condition affecting chronic coronary syndromes.
The American College of Cardiology has released the first competency statement for nurse practitioners and physician assistants in adult cardiovascular medicine. The document outlines core competencies for systems-based practice, medical knowledge, and procedural skills to improve access to care and enhance patient satisfaction.
Performing postdilation after percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) for acute coronary syndromes may improve intracoronary nitrate infusion rates, myocardial blush grade, and drug-eluting stent use. However, it does not predict final TIMI flow grade or major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).
A rare case of a giant right atrial myxoma with dual blood supply from the left and right coronary arteries was reported. The tumor was successfully excised via open-heart surgery, with no recurrence during a 3-year follow-up.
Rates of deaths related to hypertension have risen sharply across the US, with a 72% increase in rural areas and a 20% increase in urban areas. High blood pressure can cause damage to arteries and lead to events such as heart attacks or strokes, emphasizing the importance of taking it seriously.
A study by the American College of Cardiology found that people who took more steps daily, as tracked by their smart watch, had lower blood pressure on average. The research used data from over 638 participants who wore an Apple Watch for about five months.
A study of over 99,000 postmenopausal women found that consuming 58-74 grams of protein per day significantly reduced the risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Increasing protein intake by 10-20 grams daily can potentially lower this risk and has implications for cardiovascular health.
A plant-based diet can reduce cardiovascular risk, but consuming less-healthful foods like sweets and refined grains may negate these benefits. Focusing on specific, healthful plant-based food groups is crucial for reaping heart health benefits.
A study of 329 female college athletes found nearly half had higher than normal blood pressure levels, with 61% classified as elevated. The research highlights the need for further study into cardiovascular risks in this largely overlooked group.
Research found that sleeping seven or eight hours a night is associated with lower evidence of arterial stiffness and a reduced risk of heart disease. However, both short and long sleep durations were linked to increased plaque buildup in the carotid arteries. A balanced sleep pattern may be key to maintaining cardiovascular health.
A study found that patients who listened to music for 30 minutes a day had lower levels of anxiety and pain, as well as reduced rates of certain heart conditions. Music therapy was more effective than standard treatment alone in reducing these symptoms.
A large-scale study finds a strong association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ischemic heart disease in female veterans. Women with PTSD were 47 years old on average, five years younger than those without the condition, highlighting the need for earlier screening and routine care.
Women with coronary artery disease experience more chest pain due to plaque build-up, but have less extensive disease compared to men. The study highlights the need for more research and clinicians to adopt a dual focus to prevent cardiovascular events and improve patients' quality of life.
A new study suggests that giving birth to a low-weight baby under 5.5 pounds may be an independent risk factor for developing changes in heart function that can lead to heart failure. Researchers found that women who experienced adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia or pre-term birth, had a higher risk of heart failure at 30...
A recent study found nearly 1 in 20 US adults use e-cigarettes, with a rise in current use among women, middle-aged adults, and former smokers. Blood samples suggest e-cigarette exposure is equivalent to tobacco smoke in promoting oxidative stress and heart disease.
Research highlights the critical role of social and financial factors in assessing cardiovascular risk, particularly food insecurity, housing instability, and financial hardship. Studies found that these factors can increase the likelihood of heart disease by over 50%.
A study found that per capita radiation exposure in the US decreased by 20% between 2006 and 2016, mainly due to a decline in nuclear medicine procedures. Meanwhile, CT scans increased but saw a small drop in effective dose thanks to advancements in dose modulation technology.
A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that women with heart disease often face barriers to cardiac rehabilitation due to lack of time, social support and transportation issues. The authors identified ways to modernize cardiac rehabilitation by offering enjoyable physical activities, flexible class tim...
A study simulated city centre pollution levels and found that bad air for just two hours caused cardiovascular disease effects lasting a whole day. The research suggests even 'safe' pollution levels can be devastating to health, emphasizing the need for improved air quality in cities.
A two-year pilot study increased statin medication use by 24-45% and high-intensity statin treatment by 349%, resulting in significant decreases in total cholesterol and LDL levels. The partnership demonstrated the impact of public health partnerships on treating cardiovascular disease.
A large study of over 22,000 patients after a first heart attack found that abdominal obesity is independently associated with fatal and non-fatal heart attacks and strokes. Waist circumference was a stronger marker of recurrent events than overall obesity in men, while women had a U-shaped relationship between waist circumference and ...
A review suggests that marijuana use can increase cardiovascular health hazards, especially when combined with certain medications. Cardiologists are advised to screen patients for marijuana use and adjust dosing accordingly.
A review article published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology estimates that 2 million adults with cardiovascular disease in the US have used or currently use marijuana. Observational studies link marijuana use to increased heart risk, including stroke, arrhythmia, and decreased heart muscle function.
A large study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that individuals with burnout syndrome are at a 20% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation. Chronic stress and inflammation may be key mechanisms behind this association.
A study of 100,902 participants found that habitual tea consumption was linked to lower risks of cardiovascular disease and all-cause death. Green tea showed the strongest association, while black tea had no significant effects.
Researchers used genetic testing to identify a common genetic factor among affected families, revealing a homozygous multiexon duplication in RYR2 gene. Genetic testing confirmed the same gene duplication in two unrelated Amish families, allowing for potential lifesaving premarital counseling and reproductive planning
A UCLA-led study identified neuropeptide Y as a clear predictor of death in patients with stable heart failure. Patients with higher levels are 10 times more likely to die within one to three years.
Patients transplanted with hepatitis C-positive donor hearts had comparable outcomes after one year compared to those receiving hearts from disease-free donors. The study suggests using such hearts can expand the donor pool, reduce wait times and improve patient survival rates.
The European Society of Cardiology reports that middle-income countries in Europe are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease, with higher mortality rates and more years lost due to CVD. The statistics highlight the need for targeted prevention policies and improved access to modern healthcare facilities.
A study of 4,714 adult women found that those with good exercise capacity were at lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other causes. Women with poor exercise capacity had nearly four times higher annual rates of death from these causes compared to those with good exercise capacity.
Researchers found that a decrease in CPC counts during an exercise test can predict high risk of heart attack or death over the next three years. Monitoring CPC response to exercise provides more information than nuclear imaging for cardiac ischemia, reducing radiation exposure.
Research by Saint Louis University finds that rural patients with chronic conditions have higher death rates, more hospitalizations, and limited access to specialist physicians. The study suggests strategies to improve specialist care in rural areas, including telemedicine and loan forgiveness for physicians.
A nationwide cohort study in Korea found that frequent tooth brushing reduced the risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure by 10% and 12%, respectively. The study suggests a potential mechanism: reducing bacteria in the subgingival biofilm, which can prevent translocation to the bloodstream.
A study by the European Society of Cardiology found that most patients do not understand or recall information given to them before heart procedures. Patients often believe that opening blocked arteries can cure their heart disease, despite this being a misconception.
A Yale-led group developed a new mathematical model to predict acute kidney injury (AKI) risk in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. The model accounts for individual differences and complex associations between contrast levels and AKI risk, providing more accurate estimates.
Emelia J. Benjamin, a renowned researcher and cardiologist, has received two prestigious awards from the American Heart Association for her significant contributions to clinical cardiology and her dedication to mentoring young investigators. She is recognized for over 600 publications and substantial NIH grant support.
A new Yale study found a clear association between neurohormonal blockade therapy and increased survival and quality of life for patients with left ventricular assist devices. The study, which analyzed over 12,000 patients, showed a 56% survival rate for those taking NHB therapy compared to 43.9% for those not on the medications.
The article covers topics such as basic and translational medicine, clinical research, and cardiovascular prevention & rehabilitation. The 30th Great Wall International Congress of Cardiology (GW-ICC) presented new concepts and technologies in cardiovascular medicine.
A randomized trial at a music festival in the Netherlands found that virtual reality (VR) training was comparable to traditional hands-on training for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills. The study, which enrolled 381 participants, showed improved results for speed and depth of compressions in both groups.
Researchers identified rare DNA variants in 1% of asymptomatic adults that substantially increase risk of sudden cardiac death. Genetic sequencing may enable new opportunities to identify high-risk individuals prior to any symptoms.
A pilot study at Children's National Hospital found that direct-to-patient telemedicine cardiology follow-ups can safely reduce the need for in-person visits. The virtual care approach enabled doctors to extend their reach and improve patient care without unnecessary transport or lost time from work.
Research highlights the disproportionate impact of diabetes on women, with a higher risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure compared to men. Healthy lifestyle habits and glucose-lowering treatment are crucial in preventing these complications.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm based on electronic health records data that accurately predicted life expectancy for heart failure patients, achieving an 88% success rate. The model identified eight readily available variables to determine low- and high-risk of death, providing valuable insight for informed medical decisions.
The new 2019 Clinical Performance and Quality Measures for Adults with High Blood Pressure aim to accelerate translation of scientific evidence into clinical practice. The measures evaluate patient care in accordance with the 2017 Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines, including timeliness, safety, effectiveness, efficiency, equity...
A new biomarker blood test has identified adults with mild hypertension who are at higher risk for cardiovascular events without symptoms. The test detected slight elevations in protein biomarkers in approximately one-third of these individuals, who were more likely to experience heart attacks, strokes, or congestive heart failure.
Research confirms women with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia have higher cardiovascular risk and persistent risks into their 60s. Women are advised to adopt heart-healthy modifications such as exercising, eating healthy and controlling weight.
Scientists report that electronic cigarettes have adverse effects on the heart and blood vessels due to nicotine's impact on blood pressure and inflammation. The lack of standardised products makes it difficult to study the health effects of e-cigarettes, leading researchers to advise against their use.
Researchers have developed a comprehensive registry of over 2,750 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, allowing for more accurate predictions of patient risk and identification of best treatments. The study's findings will help doctors better understand the condition and its complexities.
Patients who self-identified as black, Latinx, female or over the age of 75 were less likely to be admitted to cardiology service despite heart failure diagnosis. The study highlights racial inequities in access to specialized care, which may contribute to disparities in readmissions and outcomes.
A decision support tool has been shown to reduce unnecessary referrals of low-risk patients with chest pain, potentially saving $4 million annually in healthcare costs. The tool uses evidence-based red flags to help primary care pediatricians accurately assess cardiac conditions.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital analyzed national data on the prevalence of diabetes and the number of internal medicine specialists in each U.S. state. They found that cardiologists were the highest represented specialists, suggesting they are well-positioned to provide optimal care for patients with diabetes.
A study found that 18% of cardiac rehab patients had moderate to severe depression, anxiety, or stress. These conditions were associated with higher rates of dropout from rehabilitation and reduced improvements in symptoms. Clinicians are urged to screen for mental health issues and offer additional support.
A Chinese study found that many patients with acute coronary syndrome fail to receive beta-blockers, which can prevent another event and save lives. The study's authors emphasize the importance of individualized dosing and regular follow-up to ensure optimal treatment.
A study by Haider Warraich and colleagues found that 31% of cardiovascular disease deaths occur at home, exceeding hospital fatalities. The research analyzed over 12 million deaths from 2003 to 2017, revealing disparities in place of death among underserved racial and ethnic groups.