Research from the field of heart medicine. Covers light exposure and heart health, lifestyle and longevity, and regional cardiology care.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 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.
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...
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.
Research suggests that 1 in 4 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and no symptoms have coronary heart disease, increasing their risk of cardiovascular death. The study found that persistence of systemic inflammation may cause accelerated atherosclerosis process in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that electronic health records (EHRs) did not demonstrate better quality of care or clinical outcomes for ischemic stroke patients. Despite their potential benefits, EHRs were associated with only a slightly lower risk of prolonged hospital stays.
A new test has been developed to predict sudden cardiac death in hemodialysis patients, combining nuclear medicine, C-reactive protein, and electrocardiogram (ECG). Patients with 2 or 3 abnormal measures were at a significantly increased risk of cardiac death.
A first-year undergraduate at the University of Chicago discovered a significant decrease in coronary revascularization interventions following the implementation of AUC, resulting in potential cost savings of over $2.3 billion nationwide. The study suggests that informed decision-making among physicians can lead to decreased costs whi...
A prospective multicentre observational study examined the relationship between polygamy and cardiovascular health. Men with multiple wives had a higher risk of coronary artery disease, left main disease, and multivessel disease, with risks increasing by up to 4-fold.
The American College of Cardiology hosts sessions on cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment at the Asia Pacific Congress, focusing on the growing burden of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the region. The event aims to bring together global leaders to prevent heart disease and improve treatments.
A quarter of all atrial fibrillation patients at the lowest risk for stroke receive unnecessary blood thinners from cardiology specialists. Researchers found that males and older patients were more likely to be prescribed oral anticoagulation despite having no risk factors for stroke.
Expert consensus statement provides new guidance to match right device with right patient, expanding treatment options for acutely and chronically ill cardiac patients. Percutaneous mechanical circulatory support devices offer superior circulatory support compared to medical therapy in certain cases.
Expert consensus paper provides guidance on transcatheter pulmonic valve replacement for patients with congenital heart disease. The recommendations stress the importance of a heart team collaborating on treatment decisions, and institutions must meet specific requirements to perform these procedures.
A new study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that women who have given birth to four or more children are more likely to experience cardiovascular changes that can indicate heart disease. Researchers compared data from the Dallas Heart Study and found a U-shaped association between the number of births and heart disease risk.
Patients over 80 with acute coronary syndromes who received invasive procedures had a 47% reduction in heart attacks, urgent revascularization, stroke, and death compared to conservative treatment. The study suggests that older patients may be denied necessary treatments due to their age.
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.