Articles tagged with Cardiology
A recent study found that Fitbit-Flex is a valid and reliable device for monitoring physical activity, particularly in cardiac patients. The device accurately tracks step counts and minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, making it a valuable tool for clinicians and researchers.
Black adults have higher cardiovascular disease risk compared to non-Hispanic white adults. A study validated risk prediction models for CVD incidence in black adults, showing modest improvement over standard risk factors and biomarkers.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found that cardiovascular disease risk prediction models developed with predominantly white populations are effective in black adults. The models were validated using data from the Jackson Heart Study and compared to existing algorithms.
A study published in JAMA Cardiology found significant variations in US hospital cardiac arrest care quality. Hospitals with better adherence to recommended guidelines have higher survival rates for patients treated for in-hospital cardiac arrest. The researchers estimate that an additional 22,990 to 24,200 lives could be saved annuall...
The study provides information that can be incorporated into clinical assessments for the prevention of cardiac emergencies in basketball players. The analysis reveals that left ventricular cavity sizes in NBA players are larger than in normal adults, but proportional to body size.
A comprehensive analysis of 526 NBA players reveals larger left ventricular cavity sizes, but not necessarily indicative of increased risk. Most athletes have normal left ventricular ejection fractions, with African American athletes showing increased wall thickness and mass compared to white athletes.
Adherence to guideline-recommended care following in-hospital cardiac arrests (IHCA) varies significantly among US hospitals, affecting patient survival. Top-performing hospitals have higher survival rates due to timely and high-quality care.
A study found that heart attack patients who experience cardiogenic shock have a higher risk of death or rehospitalization in the first 60 days post-discharge. However, by the end of the first year, the gap between the two groups narrows.
Women with hypertension and physically demanding jobs have an especially high risk of heart disease. The combination of hypertension and high physical activity at work increases the risk more than adding individual risks together.
A new report identifies several forms of testing to measure the risk of heart disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. These tests include exercise testing and coronary calcium scanning, which can detect silent ischemia and identify the highest-risk patients for more effective treatments. The study suggests that a significant proporti...
The American College of Cardiology and American College of Radiology have established recommendations for diagnosing chest pain in emergency departments. The guidelines assess the risks and benefits of diagnostic imaging procedures, providing guidance for clinicians to inform their judgment.
A new study from Indiana University School of Medicine found that medical students with lower reflection scores are more likely to be cited for professionalism lapses. Reflective ability enhances students' capacity for empathy, compassion, and patient-centeredness, and is essential for their professional development.
The study emphasizes that even moderate amounts of physical activity can significantly reduce cardiovascular disease mortality risk. The council found no upper limit to exercise-induced health benefits, suggesting all levels of moderate and vigorous intensity exercise result in reduced mortality compared to physical inactivity.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions has released a consensus statement providing guidance for treating patients with concomitant cardiovascular disease and cancer. The document aims to increase the competency of cardiovascular professionals in caring for cancer patients, who are expected to increase to 20 milli...
Dr. John Michael Criley receives the 2016 Distinguished Teacher Award for his innovative and compassionate teaching, training over 2,200 cardiologists and medical professionals worldwide. He has made significant contributions to cardiovascular medicine through his research papers and textbooks.
A study led by Dr Gerry McCann found that treating multiple narrowed arteries during a heart attack does not increase the amount of heart muscle damage. The research suggests it is safe for cardiologists to insert stents in all discovered narrowings while treating a heart attack.
The new Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications (CVIA) journal has published its first issue, featuring a special focus on heart failure. Key findings include strategies to reduce heart failure readmission rates and the use of noninvasive hemodynamic monitoring for improved management.
Researchers found a 15-20% reduction in hospitalization risk for heart failure or death among patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy compared to those with implantable cardioverter defibrillators. The treatment is associated with improved outcomes, but further studies are needed.
The report analyzed outcomes of 26,414 TAVR procedures performed from 2012-2014 and found low risk for mortality, myocardial infarction, kidney injury, and neurologic complications. The most common complications were vascular and bleeding requiring transfusion, with a decrease in vascular complications over time.
Patients with coronary artery disease spend an average of eight hours each day sitting despite exercising, according to research published in the European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention. Women tend to be less sedentary than men, but both have poorer health outcomes when sitting for long periods.
A team of cardiologists used a virtual reality device to guide the recanalization of a chronically blocked right coronary artery. The procedure was completed successfully with implantation of two drug-eluting stents, demonstrating potential for improved operator comfort and efficiency in interventional cardiology.
A case of aconitine-induced cardiovascular symptoms is reported in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology. The patient developed bidirectional ventricular tachycardia after consuming a medicinal liquid containing aconitine, a toxic substance from the Aconitum plant.
The study found a 64% decrease in rarely appropriate angioplasty procedures performed on patients with non-acute conditions. Hospitals with the highest initial rates of rarely appropriate procedures showed varying degrees of improvement, highlighting the need for ongoing quality improvement initiatives.
The proportion of nonacute PCIs classified as inappropriate decreased from 26% to 13%, with significant increases in angina severity and use of antianginal medications prior to PCI. Hospital-level variation in procedural appropriateness persisted, but overall trends suggest improvements in patient selection and clinical decision making.
A meta-analysis of 33 studies involving over 20 million patients found a statistically significant increased risk of sudden cardiac death and ventricular tachyarrhythmias associated with macrolide antibiotics. Macrolides were also linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular death, especially with clarithromycin.
A new approach using the KiTOMI model dismisses myths and provides evidence-based practical recommendations for healthcare providers counseling heart patients about sexual activity. The risk of death during sex is very low for most clinically stable heart patients, with even lower risk for women.
Cardiovascular Innovations and Applications (CVIA) journal was introduced at the 26th GW-ICC meeting, focusing on novel developments in cardiovascular disease. The journal aims to promote cardiovascular innovations and applications for better public health globally.
Researchers found that ischemic stroke in young adults who use marijuana is more likely to be caused by intracranial arterial stenosis due to a buildup of plaque. This condition was found in 45% of marijuana users, compared to 14% of non-users.
A Swedish study found that low household income is associated with a higher risk of death after cardiac surgery, even in a country with universal healthcare coverage. The study suggests that socioeconomic status affects health outcomes beyond healthcare access alone.
A new registry study by Karolinska Institutet found a strong correlation between household disposable income and long-term survival after cardiac surgery. The study included 100,000 patients and showed that those with higher incomes had significantly lower mortality rates, even after adjusting for other risk factors.
A study found that pacemaker checks can identify asymptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF), allowing for early initiation of anticoagulation to prevent strokes. The research involved 223 patients who received a pacemaker and showed that nearly all with undiagnosed AF needed anticoagulation to reduce stroke risk.
The PARTNER II Trial showed promising findings for TAVR with the latest generation of balloon-expandable (SAPIEN 3) device, demonstrating low one-year mortality rates and improved symptom relief. The study also found a low rate of disabling stroke and paravalvular aortic regurgitation.
A study found that low physical activity was responsible for 17% of cardiovascular deaths in Argentina, with effects greater in women. Engaging in at least 30 minutes of brisk walking 5 days a week may reduce cardiovascular mortality, especially in women and those younger than 70 years old.
Scripps Health cardiology experts will share leading-edge techniques for improving heart care during the annual Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) symposium. Matthew Price, M.D., will present on the WATCHMAN left atrial appendage closure device, an alternative to blood thinners for stroke prevention.
Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats and high-quality carbohydrates has the most impact on reducing the risk of heart disease, according to a new study. Participants who replaced calories from saturated fatty acids with calories from polyunsaturated fats, monounsaturated fats, or whole grains had lower risk of coronary heart ...
A three-year lifestyle intervention improved preschoolers' knowledge, attitude, and habits towards healthy diet and exercise. The program reduced body fat and obesity in children, with the most significant impact seen in families with higher education and income levels.
Drinking sugar-sweetened beverages can lead to excess weight gain, a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Fructose's unique role in metabolism contributes to these conditions.
A new study found that patients on one-fourth the suggested dose of beta-blockers survived at the same rate or even better than those on higher doses, increasing survival by 20-25%. The research suggests that beta-blocker dosing needs to be personalized for individual patients.
The conference will showcase advancements in acute cardiovascular care, including heart attack, cardiac arrest, and pulmonary embolism treatment. Experts will discuss novel therapies and debate controversial topics such as pre-hospital care and bleeding management.
ESC Congress 2015 saw a record-breaking attendance of 32,773 registrations, featuring 28 clinical Hot Line presentations, 18 Clinical Trial Updates, and 20 Registry studies. Key findings included the use of spironolactone for resistant hypertension and its positive implications for clinical practice.
A recent study found that cardiologists failed to identify over half of basic and nearly 35% of advanced pre-recorded murmurs. However, a 90-minute training session significantly improved their ability to recognize indications of heart conditions.
Research presented at ESC Congress found a strong association between cold weather and severe heart attacks in Winnipeg, Canada. A 6-year study showed that each 10°C drop in temperature increased the risk of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) by 7%.
A provocative essay in Annals of Internal Medicine exposes doctors' disrespect towards vulnerable patients, highlighting shocking clinical experiences. The author's anonymity protects patient privacy, but raises questions about medical ethics and accountability.
Patients on triple therapy had the same rates of adverse cardiac events as dual therapy but experienced more complications and bleeding; researchers recommend reevaluating treatment regimens for this population.
The American College of Cardiology has released recommendations for the implantation of left atrial appendage occlusion devices, which may lower the risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. The new guidelines emphasize team-based care and the need for robust clinical data on outcomes for patients treated with these devices.
The European Society of Cardiology has published first-ever recommendations for managing cardiac arrhythmias in patients with chronic kidney disease. The guidelines emphasize the importance of considering renal impairment when choosing antiarrhythmic strategies, drugs, and anticoagulants.
The American College of Cardiology seeks to expand cardio-oncology services to address the growing need for specialized care in cardiovascular health for cancer patients. Currently, many hospital training programs lack formal training or services in this area, and a nationwide survey reveals gaps in resources and best practices.
Researchers followed 2,479 young adults for 25 years and found that those with elevated but normal-range blood pressure were more likely to experience cardiac dysfunction. Young adults can reduce the risk by managing high blood pressure through diet, exercise, and medication.
Researchers found that exercising diabetic patients can improve glycemic control, waist circumference, and percentage of body fat, even for those who don't see cardiorespiratory benefits. The study suggests broadening the definition of 'non-responder' to include participants with limited improvement in exercise capacity.
A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that people are divided on the cardiovascular benefits of moderate alcohol consumption. Those who believe alcohol is 'heart healthy' drink more and have higher education, income, and age compared to those with unfavorable views.
The journal celebrates its 10-year milestone with a special issue featuring articles on blood pressure targets, cardiac care for women, and pharmacogenomics. Recent advances and emerging challenges in specific areas of cardiology are reviewed.
A study found that one in five young patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) require psychotropic drugs within five years, with a risk double that of healthy peers. This highlights the need for specialist care and long-term follow-up for VTE patients.
EuroPCR 2015 highlighted the benefits of mechanical thrombectomy in acute stroke, showing significant improvement in outcomes for one-third of patients who qualify for the procedure. The meeting also showcased advancements in coronary interventions, including chronic total occlusions and stent thrombosis.
A pilot study using the PINNACLE India Quality Improvement Program registry shows that high-quality outpatient cardiovascular care can be achieved in resource-limited environments like India. The registry collected data from 68,196 patients with coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation, highlighting areas for imp...
A recent study presented at EuroPCR 2015 found that routine thrombectomy during angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction may increase the risk of stroke. The TOTAL trial showed a significant increase in stroke rates within 30 days, with the highest risk period being within 48 hours.
A screening study of over 2,000 elite athletes revealed a surprisingly high prevalence of cardiovascular conditions, including life-threatening heart problems. The study found that 7.3% of athletes had some form of cardiovascular abnormality, highlighting the need for more accurate assessments and screenings in elite athletes.
A study published at the EuroPRevent congress found that employees in busy workplaces often do not meet recommended levels of physical activity, with only 6% achieving 10,000 steps per day. The research highlights the need for workplace health promotion policies to be more effectively applied to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.
The American College of Cardiology promotes team-based care for cardiovascular patients, valuing honesty, discipline, and creativity. Teams should receive feedback on shared goals and have flexible leaders who prioritize patient care.
Hospitals in the Midwest were more likely to refer patients for guideline-recommended cardiac rehabilitation following angioplasty, possibly due to a greater concentration of local rehabilitation centers. On average, about 60% of all patients undergoing angioplasty were referred for cardiac rehabilitation.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness can delay the onset of high cholesterol by up to 15 years. Men with lower fitness levels were more likely to develop high cholesterol in their early 30s, while those with higher fitness did not experience this un...