Articles tagged with Cardiology
The study found bivalirudin to be associated with significantly lower rates of bleeding complications and death, but failed to meet its co-primary composite endpoints. The high prevalence of heart attacks in patients may have diluted the benefits reflected in the rates of death and bleeding.
A new survey from NYU Langone Medical Center found that most physicians believe diet is as important as statin therapy in preventing heart disease, and would welcome additional training in nutrition. The study suggests that improving physician knowledge on diet could lead to better patient outcomes.
Researchers analyzed medical test records for over 300,000 people and found a significant link between fine-particulate-matter pollution and stenosis in internal carotid arteries. This study suggests that lowering pollution levels may reduce the incidence of carotid artery stenosis and stroke.
A new study shows that years of running are closely linked to atrial fibrillation risk in runners, suggesting physicians should consider this when assessing older patients with endurance sports history. Meanwhile, a school-based program aimed at educating children about heart disease prevention may improve their parents' cardiovascular...
A new study finds that carotid baroreflex activation therapy (BAT) improves NYHA Class, quality of life scores and exercise capacity in symptomatic advanced heart failure patients receiving optimum drug therapy. BAT was safely implanted with few complications and no adverse effects.
A study published by the American College of Cardiology found that patients undergoing coronary angiogram with radial access had a significantly lower risk of major bleeding and death compared to those with femoral access. The study suggests that the arm should be the preferred approach for most catheter-based heart procedures.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that routine thrombectomy during angioplasty for heart attacks does not provide a benefit and may increase the risk of stroke. The study included over 10,000 patients and randomly assigned half to receive angioplasty alone or with manual thrombectomy.
The SAPIEN 3 heart valve demonstrated lower death, stroke, and paravalvular leak rates than earlier generation devices in high-risk patients. In intermediate-risk patients, the device showed encouraging results, with a reduced rate of major vascular complications and fewer instances of heart attacks and annular rupture.
Self-expanding TAVR shows continued survival advantage over standard surgery in high-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis. At two years, TAVR had 4.8% more survivors than surgery, and lower rates of strokes and major cardiovascular events.
A new brain shield device has shown improved in-hospital safety outcomes, including lower rates of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. The device also demonstrated benefits for patients' cognitive scores at discharge, with better performance on neurocognitive tests.
The SAPIEN transcatheter heart valve is a feasible option for high-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis, but valve leakage remains a significant issue. At five years, death and stroke rates were equivalent to open-heart surgery, but rehospitalization rates and functional outcomes differed.
A recent survey of 236 cardiologists found significant gaps in their knowledge about heart-healthy diets, with only 13.5% feeling adequately trained to discuss nutrition with patients. Dark chocolate was also shown to have health benefits in sedentary older adults, improving energy levels and exercise stamina.
A large trial found that patients with symptoms of heart disease have similar outcomes regardless of whether they undergo a functional stress test or a computed tomographic scan. However, the scan may be better at ruling out the need for subsequent tests and procedures in patients who are free of heart disease.
A study of over 12,000 TAVR patients in the US found a one-year death rate of 23.7% and a stroke rate of 4.1%. The median age of patients was 84 years old, with 52% female.
A new survey found that nearly three-quarters of Chinese adults have poor cardiovascular health, with a tiny minority enjoying ideal heart health. The study emphasizes the need for effective interventions to combat the rising rates of heart disease in China.
Patients with moderate to severe depression who took antidepressants alone had a 53% lower risk of dying, developing coronary artery disease or having a stroke during the three-year follow-up period. Antidepressants were shown to significantly improve cardiovascular outcomes in this group, even when statins were not used.
Women who experience hot flashes earlier in life have poorer endothelial function and increased cardiovascular risk compared to those with later onset or no symptoms. The study found that the number of hot flashes matters, with more frequent hot flashes associated with greater evidence of endothelial dysfunction.
A randomized trial found that patients taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements showed improvements in heart function and had less fibrosis compared to those taking a placebo. Patients who experienced a 5% increase in omega-3 levels in their blood derived the most benefit.
Research suggests chronic exposure to air pollution increases the risk of stroke by causing fatty substances to build up in the neck arteries. The study found those living in areas with high levels of fine particulate matter had a 24% greater risk of carotid artery stenosis compared to those in cleaner areas.
Patients taking digoxin for atrial fibrillation face a 27% increased risk of dying compared to those not on the medication. The analysis of 19 studies involving over 500,000 patients also found that those with kidney failure are at an especially high risk.
The Mediterranean diet was found to be highly protective against heart disease, with participants who closely followed the diet being 47% less likely to develop heart disease. Adherence to the diet was more protective than physical activity, and its benefits were seen across all age groups and genders.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that frequent radiation exposure and heavy protective gear are associated with increased musculoskeletal pain among technicians and nurses. Researchers recommend improving ergonomic evaluations and rotation to mitigate these effects.
A study published in CMAJ found that nearly a quarter of patients with chest pain who visited an emergency department did not receive follow-up care. Patients with multiple health issues and rural residency were less likely to see a physician after discharge.
A recent Phase III study has shown that alirocumab significantly lowers LDL-C levels compared to ezetimibe. The treatment's safety profile is comparable to ezetimibe, making it a viable option for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia at moderate CV risk.
A new approach to cardiovascular prevention is needed, integrating cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention. Fewer than half of coronary patients receive benefits from cardiac rehabilitation and preventive care.
According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, light jogging is associated with lower mortality rates. Jogging frequencies between 1-2.4 hours per week showed significant lower mortality rates compared to sedentary non-joggers.
The journal aims to publish high-quality research on cardiovascular pharmacotherapy, focusing on improving patient care and management of cardiovascular disease. The first issue will be published in 2015, with four issues planned for the year.
Researchers analyzed Beethoven's compositions for clues of a heart condition and found striking rhythms that reflect the irregular patterns of his cardiac arrhythmia. The study suggests that Beethoven's music could be 'musical electrocardiograms,' a readout of modern heart rhythm testing equipment.
A 20-year study found that most healthy obese individuals progress to unhealthy obesity, highlighting the importance of weight management and treatment. The research also revealed a greater risk for cardiovascular disease in healthy obese adults compared to those with normal weight.
Research published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that high-risk patients admitted to hospitals during cardiology meetings are more likely to survive than on non-meeting days. The study suggests that a less intensive approach for these patients may be beneficial.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that cardiologists' absence at national meetings did not negatively impact patient outcomes. High-risk patients with heart failure or cardiac arrest experienced lower 30-day mortality when admitted during meeting dates.
A new study by Mount Sinai Heart and CNIC in Spain reveals two waves of heart muscle inflammation after a heart attack, contradicting previous consensus. The researchers discovered the first wave occurs immediately after the attack and subsides, followed by a second wave that arises a week later.
A new study published in JAMA found that hospitalized patients with STEMI heart attacks are more likely to die than those who had the same type of heart attack outside the hospital. The study analyzed data from over 62,000 patients and found that these patients were older, female, and less likely to receive routine treatments for STEMI.
Researchers found that elderly men with low DHEA levels were at a greater risk of developing coronary heart disease events over a five-year period. The study suggests that high DHEA levels may be a biomarker of good health in elderly men.
Shared accountability between patients and clinicians can improve patient-centered outcomes and reduce morbidity and mortality. The report proposes incorporating patient actions into performance measures, tracking lifestyle changes, medication adherence, and follow-up appointments.
Researchers developed a novel ultrasound technology to screen for heart conditions, enabling earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment. The technology helps identify blood flow patterns in the heart, which is crucial for diagnosing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy.
A new technique enables continuous ECG surveillance during marathon races, potentially saving lives. The system uses Bluetooth and mobile phone networks to transmit data in real-time, with rapid transfer times and high accuracy.
The World Heart Federation's Global Cardiovascular Disease Taskforce urges the United Nations to support efforts to curb non-communicable diseases like heart disease and stroke. The task force estimates that cardiovascular disease will account for $7 trillion of the economic burden from 2011-2025.
A new study finds that healthy lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can prevent four out of five coronary events in men. Researchers followed 20,721 Swedish men for 11 years and found that those with low-risk behaviors had significantly lower risk of heart attack.
Marie Claude Morice, a world-renowned interventional cardiologist, has been recognized with the Master Clinical Operator Award at TCT for her technical expertise and innovative contributions to the field of interventional cardiology. Her extensive research and clinical experience have led to significant advancements in the treatment of...
The ROCKET AF trial found that digoxin use was associated with a 22% increased risk of death due to any cause and a 22% increased risk of death due to cardiovascular events. In complex atrial fibrillation patients, doctors should proceed with caution when using digoxin.
A simple awareness campaign in general practice identified new cases of AF, with 129 patients receiving treatment to reduce stroke risk. The campaign used a dedicated questionnaire to detect irregular pulses and symptoms suggestive of AF.
Despite having a family history of CVD, individuals are unlikely to adopt healthier habits, with those reporting a family history showing higher heart ages and poorer diet scores. Small lifestyle changes can still significantly reduce CVD risk, suggesting alternative strategies for behavior change.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that abdominal fat is more strongly associated with high blood pressure risk than overall obesity. The research, which followed 903 patients for seven years, discovered a significant correlation between retroperitoneal fat and hypertension.
A seven-year study of nearly half a million people in China found that daily fruit consumption significantly reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease and stroke. The more fruit eaten, the lower the CVD risk, with significant reductions also seen in blood pressure.
A study found that energy drinks cause heart problems, including angina, cardiac arrhythmia, and sudden death. The researchers analyzed adverse events reported to the French agency for food safety between 2009 and 2012 and found that 95 of the reported events had cardiovascular symptoms.
A study of 131,401 people found that tea drinkers had a lower risk profile for cardiovascular disease and significantly lowered the risk of non-CV death. The study also revealed that coffee consumption was associated with a higher CV risk profile, particularly among smokers.
The new guidelines cover aneurysms, calcifications, congenital diseases, aortic inflammation, and tumors, with improved diagnostic capabilities using imaging technologies. The guidelines recommend opportunistic screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm and the use of hybrid treatments, as well as establishing aortic teams in hospitals.
The new document provides clear recommendations on how to identify ACS patients at risk for arrhythmias and manage tachy- and bradyarrhythmias using drugs, devices, and catheter-based approaches. The paper also offers guidance on the use of antiarrhythmic drugs in patients with ACS and ventricular arrhythmias.
The MORE-CRT study demonstrates the safety and efficiency of quadripolar lead technology in managing common pacing complications during cardiac resynchronisation therapy. At six months, patients with quadripolar leads showed a significant reduction in intra- and post-operative LV lead-related complications compared to bipolar lead cont...
The European Society of Cardiology has launched a new journal focused on cardiovascular pharmacotherapy, aiming to improve the treatment of patients with cardiovascular disease. The journal will publish original research, invited editorials, and reviews by prestigious authors, with the goal of becoming the leading journal in this field.
A mobile app for emergency cardiac care has been developed by the Acute Cardiovascular Care Association (ACCA) of the European Society of Cardiology. The app provides instant access to diagnostics pathways, treatment algorithms, and guidelines for professionals to make quick decisions in acute cardiovascular emergencies.
Heart failure affects millions worldwide, resulting in poor survival rates and a huge burden on healthcare systems. The Heart Failure Association calls for improved awareness and policy initiatives to prevent the disease and promote equity of care. Implementation could reduce deaths and improve quality of life globally.
A new UCLA-led research study has found that racial and ethnic minorities who receive implantable devices to treat heart failure derive the same substantial survival benefit as white patients. The study, involving over 15,000 patients, monitored two years of data from a registry to improve heart failure therapies in outpatient settings.
The 2014 ESC/ESA Guidelines provide recommendations for cardiovascular assessment and management in non-cardiac surgery, aiming to reduce complications. The guidelines cover risk assessment models, biomarkers, anticoagulants, statins, aspirin, and beta-blockers to mitigate cardiac risk in patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that endurance runners are more likely to die from heat stroke than cardiac events during races. Researchers analyzed data from 14 long-distance races and found 21 serious cases of heat stroke, including two fatalities.
New study finds sedentary behavior can be detrimental to cardiovascular health, independent of exercise. Researchers recommend taking short walks, tracking daily steps, and replacing desk chairs with fitness balls or treadmill desks.
The European Society of Cardiology emphasizes the importance of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in cardiovascular clinical trials. PROs provide valuable information on aspects of life beyond survival, influencing health technology assessments and reimbursement decisions.
A new study found that healthcare providers are reluctant to discuss end-of-life care with heart failure patients, citing discomfort and lack of time. However, experts emphasize the importance of open communication in easing anxiety and improving patient outcomes.
Many breast cancer patients fail to receive treatment for heart problems despite having a higher risk of complications, according to a recent study. Researchers found that only about one-third of older breast cancer patients saw a cardiologist within 90 days of developing heart issues.