Research from the field of heart medicine. Covers light exposure and heart health, lifestyle and longevity, and regional cardiology care.
A new study suggests that minimally invasive transcatheter valve replacement is a safe and effective therapy for healthier patients at low surgical risk. Patients treated with TAVR had lower incidence of disabling stroke, bleeding complications, and atrial fibrillation, but slightly higher moderate aortic regurgitation.
A recent study found that remote monitoring of implanted defibrillators in heart failure patients significantly reduces the rate of hospitalization and death. The trial showed a lower rate of primary endpoint (39.5%) compared to standard care (48.5%), with reduced cardiovascular deaths and hospitalizations.
A new study found that the Apple Watch can detect atrial fibrillation (AFib) in people who have an irregular heartbeat. The study showed that the watch's algorithm was accurate 84% of the time, and nearly half of those notified went on to seek medical care.
Results from the PARTNER 3 trial demonstrate that low-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis can significantly benefit from minimally invasive TAVR, leading to shorter recovery times and lower complication rates. This groundbreaking procedure has the potential to transform treatment options for patients with heart disease.
A novel electrocardiogram method uses signals from the ear and hand to detect atrial fibrillation and prevent strokes. The new technique paves the way for a single-lead ECG wearable device that could be used by drivers, athletes, and the military.
A commonly used heart drug, nifedipine, is associated with an increased risk of out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest, particularly at high doses. The study analyzed data from large registries and found no risk association with amlodipine.
A new study suggests that transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a safe and effective option for patients with bicuspid aortic valve stenosis, particularly those at intermediate or high risk for open heart surgery. While patients with a bicuspid valve had a higher risk of stroke after TAVR, the overall mortality rate was simi...
Research from the Cardiovascular Research Foundation will present latest data on PCI, imaging technologies, and TAVR at ACC.19. The study found that treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or receptor blockers affects revascularization after percutaneous coronary intervention.
A new quality improvement plan at Olathe Medical Center increased patient satisfaction scores with medication understanding, while decreasing readmission rates. The interdisciplinary team's approach included bedside nurse reviews, visual aid forms, pharmacist education, and post-discharge phone calls to reinforce medication knowledge.
A large study of nearly 14,000 people found that low-carb diets are significantly more likely to develop atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia that can lead to stroke and heart failure. Researchers suggest using caution when restricting carbohydrates for weight loss due to potential inflammation and oxidative stress.
A study published by the American College of Cardiology found that people who spent less time watching TV and regularly ate an energy-rich breakfast showed significantly less plaque and stiffness in their arteries. Eating a high-energy breakfast was also associated with healthier arteries, while skipping breakfast increased the risk of...
HIV patients face a range of cardiovascular risks due to chronic inflammation, immune activation, and antiretroviral therapy side effects. Experts provide guidance on managing CVD in this growing patient population.
A study found that brain regions involved in emotional processing and controlling the body's unconscious workings do not communicate as well in patients with Takotsubo syndrome, a condition known as 'broken heart' syndrome. This decrease in communication may contribute to the development of TTS, which is triggered by emotional stressors.
A study found that women are less likely to be treated promptly for heart attack symptoms compared to men. Women's delays in seeking medical attention contribute to worse outcomes and increased mortality rates.
A large observational study found that patients with STEMI who were directly admitted to primary PCI centres had significantly better long-term survival than those transferred from other hospitals. The time gap between diagnosis and treatment was also shorter, contributing to the improved outcomes.
A study of 2,564 patients who had a heart attack found that those traveling had a lower risk of long-term all-cause death if treated promptly. Patients traveling were younger and had a higher prevalence of STEMI, a serious type of heart attack.
Researchers found that adults born with mild congenital heart defects are 13 times more likely to develop heart failure or atrial fibrillation and five times more likely to have a stroke. A heart-healthy lifestyle can reduce this risk, but the exact reasons behind these increased risks remain unclear.
The new document defines the training requirements for performing advanced echocardiographic procedures, outlining knowledge, experience, and skill requirements for Level III competency. It emphasizes the importance of proper training to ensure positive clinical outcomes and patient safety.
New research from the European Society of Cardiology shows that physiological health, as measured by exercise stress testing performance, is a better predictor of survival than chronological age. This finding suggests that individuals who are physically fit may live longer than those who are not.
A pilot program using clinical decision support tools improved angina symptoms and quality of life in patients with stable ischemic heart disease. The use of apps such as ACC FOCUS, Seattle Angina Questionnaire, and CardioSmart Heart Explorer App led to significant improvements in patient outcomes.
A Yale research team found that nearly half of non-elderly adults with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease report financial hardship due to medical bills. The study reveals significant financial distress among these individuals, including cutting back on essential medications.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that 45.1% of adult atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) patients experience financial hardship due to medical bills. Insured and uninsured individuals, particularly those with lower incomes, are disproportionately affected.
A case report describes a patient who developed cardiac events after consuming potent marijuana edibles, emphasizing the importance of understanding THC's effects on the cardiovascular system. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to educate patients with cardiovascular disease about cannabis use and its complications.
Dr. Feldman was awarded the Distinguished Scientist Award-Basic Domain by the American College of Cardiology in recognition of his major scientific contributions to cardiovascular disease research. He has made significant advancements in molecular biology of dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure.
The European Society of Cardiology's Acute Cardiovascular Care Congress explores the best ways to save lives from heart attacks and cardiac arrests. Gender differences and stress management are also key topics discussed by leading specialists.
A new study published in EuroIntervention found that minimally invasive Mitraclip implantation has a consistently low complication rate, even as the number of procedures increased. The study included over 13,575 patients and showed that mortality rates remained stable during the five-year period.
A study led by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that middle-aged athletes who engaged in high-volume exercise (at least 5-6 hours per week) did not have an increased risk of heart disease or mortality. The researchers also found that women were excluded from the study due to lower mortality rates compared to men.
A new study published in the International Journal of Cardiology confirms that diets rich in palmitic and stearic acid, found in meats, increase cardiovascular risk. In contrast, eating fewer long-chain saturated fats and consuming plant-based proteins lowers the risk of myocardial infarction.
Researchers analyzed data from 622 cancer patients and found that those with tachycardia had a higher mortality rate compared to those without it. Tachycardia was a significant predictor of overall mortality regardless of cancer type, highlighting the need for co-management of heart and cancer conditions.
A study by the US Department of Veterans Affairs found that new appointment wait times have decreased at VA medical centers, making it easier for veterans to access healthcare services. The research compared primary care, dermatology, cardiology, and orthopedics appointments in 15 major metropolitan areas.
Patients with type 2 diabetes should be prescribed physical activity to control blood sugar and improve heart health. Exercise programs are a cost-effective treatment and should be reimbursed. Long-term adherence can be improved by setting early achievable goals and adapting exercise plans to patients' preferences.
A large-scale study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center's Smith Center for Outcomes Research in Cardiology found that the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program may be associated with an increase in patient-level mortality. The researchers evaluated trends in mortality among Medicare patients hospitalized for heart failure, a hear...
A new study by the European Society of Cardiology found that giving birth is associated with a 14% higher risk of heart disease and stroke. Pregnant women are advised to keep weight gain under control and adopt healthy lifestyle habits after pregnancy to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The European Society of Cardiology survey found that nearly two-thirds of individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease are centrally obese. The study highlights the need for health care systems to invest in prevention and public health initiatives to prevent heart disease and stroke.
A study of 12,615 participants found that good exercise performance was associated with lower risks of cardiovascular death, cancer death, and other causes of death. The findings suggest the importance of fitness for longevity.
A review paper highlights the importance of infusing heart-healthy behaviors into all aspects of children's lives, starting from early childhood. The authors suggest that modifiable risk factors in children can be prevented by educating on healthy habits early in life, leading to similar health outcomes as those who were never unhealthy.
A systematic review of literature found that cardiac rehabilitation attendance is associated with improved sexual function and sexual frequency in patients with cardiovascular disease. The study highlights the need for further investigation into the effectiveness of sexual counseling interventions to improve sexual health outcomes.
A recent study presented at EuroEcho-Imaging 2018 suggests that breast cancer patients who take the beta-blocker carvedilol together with trastuzumab have better-preserved left ventricular function compared to those who take trastuzumab alone. This may indicate that carvedilol can help prevent heart damage caused by trastuzumab treatment.
Researchers at the University of Arizona have identified multiple subpopulations of cardiomyocytes expressing specific transcription factors, which could lead to better repair of heart muscle injuries. The study uses a systems-based approach encompassing single-cell transcriptomics, single-cell proteomics and CRISPR gene-editing.
Researchers have developed a miniature pacemaker design that enables less painful, faster recovery times, and reduced medical costs. The innovative approach uses a tiny incision to implant the device, cutting down on surgical time.
A genetic study led by University of Helsinki researchers has uncovered the underlying causes of severe heart muscle diseases in children, revealing a unique genetic profile for each family. The study's findings have significant implications for predicting disease course and treatment decisions, paving the way for personalized medicine.
The American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and Heart Rhythm Society have published a guideline for evaluating and treating patients with bradycardia. The guidelines recommend diagnostic testing tools, lifestyle interventions, pharmacotherapy, and pacing devices to manage the condition.
Researchers found that very low troponin levels can rule out stress-inducible ischemia, allowing doctors to avoid routine stress testing. This could reduce healthcare costs and radiation exposure by triaging individuals with stable CAD before performing stress tests.
The use of stroke-preventing anticoagulants in Canada is hindered by barriers including perceived cost, lack of funding approval and physician skepticism. Despite the benefits of these medications, many patients with atrial fibrillation remain undertreated, resulting in preventable strokes.
A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that higher vitamin D levels are associated with better exercise capacity and cardiorespiratory fitness. Participants with higher vitamin D levels had a 4.3-fold higher fitness level compared to those with lower levels.
Only one in three Chinese acute coronary syndrome patients receive cardiac rehabilitation guidance before discharge from hospital. Men are more likely to receive advice than women, but all heart attack patients need cardiac rehabilitation, and targeted efforts are needed to improve provision.
Patients with AFib and a history of cancer are more likely to experience suboptimal antithrombotic care, leading to increased risk of stroke. Cardiology providers play a crucial role in improving outcomes for these patients, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
A nationwide study in Taiwan found that stroke incidence is rising, contrary to declines in Western countries. The study examined hospital records of patients with a primary diagnosis of stroke between 2001 and 2013, and found that the incidence of ischemic stroke increased by 12% over 13 years.
The SCAI-WIN program aims to increase female participation in interventional cardiology. Megha Prasad has been selected for a $100,000 fellowship to develop complex and high-risk intervention skills.
This CVIA special issue brings together valuable new insights into research in cath lab procedures. Papers cover topics such as intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous coronary intervention, cardiac catheterization after cardiac arrest, and the current state of transradial access.
A new study published in Circulation found that oxygen therapy for patients with suspected heart attacks does not reduce the risk of developing heart failure or dying. The study, conducted at 35 Swedish hospitals, involved over 6,600 patients and showed no significant difference in survival rates or complications.
A new non-invasive test called FFRCT accurately reflects invasively measured fractional flow reserve, showing it can safely guide treatment for patients with moderate stenosis. The study found that patients with normal FFRCT results had a similar prognosis to those with mild or no stenosis.
A study published in European Heart Journal reveals that air pollution is a significant contributor to cardiovascular diseases, with particulate matter playing a key role. The review article highlights the importance of reducing emissions from traffic, industry, and agriculture to mitigate the negative effects on vascular function.
The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association released an updated guideline for managing adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients, incorporating new data and growing expertise. The guideline presents a new classification system that captures complexity in both anatomy and physiology.
A study published in the journal HeartRhythm recommends that pediatric patients with epicardial devices should get regular screening chest x-rays and cine CT scans or catheter angiography to assess their wires and detect coronary artery compression. This can help prevent fatal complications and identify patients at risk.
A new online tool, Astro-CHARM, has been developed to predict who is at the highest risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke in the next 10 years. The calculator combines coronary artery calcium measurement with traditional risk factors like blood pressure and cholesterol.
A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found a strong dose-response relationship between smoking and atrial fibrillation. Smoking five to ten cigarettes per day increased the risk by 9% to 32%, respectively. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce this risk, with former smokers experiencing a lower risk th...
Researchers compared CF-PWV and CAVI to assess vascular ageing, finding CAVI provides additional information on vessel wall state. Metabolic syndrome was found to increase CF-PWV levels but not affect CAVI.
Researchers at Mainz University Medical Center identified an enzyme responsible for vascular damage caused by aircraft noise. The study found that night-time noise has a particularly harmful effect on vessels and brain, and suggest that protecting night-time sleep from noise is crucial.
This special issue of CVIA journal presents major review articles and research findings on Adult Congenital Heart Disease, including pulmonary hypertension management, Ebstein anomaly surgery, and heart transplantation. Key topics include pregnancy in congenital heart disease and depression in adults with congenital heart disease.