Research on cholesterol and heart health. Covers post-heart-attack LDL lowering, cardiovascular event reduction, gene-editing therapy, and cancer links.
A preliminary study led by UC San Francisco found that reducing ultra-processed food intake significantly improved symptoms of depression and anxiety in participants, who reduced their intake by over 85%.
A new study found that atorvastatin reduces major cardiovascular events by 30% in people aged 70 and older without known cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or dementia. However, it did not improve disability-free survival. The results inform treatment guidelines for older adults, who are underrepresented in previous trials.
The AMUNDSEN trial found that evolocumab significantly improved LDL-cholesterol goal achievement after a heart attack, but did not show early cardiovascular benefits. Patients who received evolocumab had a higher rate of LDL-C goal attainment compared to standard care.
Researchers developed a bioinspired lipid nanoparticle that delivered gene-editing machinery to the liver, reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by over 20% and showing fewer signs of inflammation and toxicity. The nanoparticles also demonstrated positive effects on inflammation and healthy blood flow in cell experiments.
A University of Oklahoma researcher is receiving a five-year, $2 million NCI grant to investigate how pancreatic cancer uses cholesterol to survive chemotherapy. The research aims to identify new ways to treat this deadliest form of cancer by uncovering the biological processes that help tumors thrive.
Researchers report reductions of up to 75.8% in perfluorinated compounds after plasmapheresis treatment, while microplastics decrease in four out of four patients. The exact mechanism behind this effect is still unclear and requires further investigation.
A recent study published in Cancer Research found that sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, can restrict cancer metastasis by limiting cancer cells' access to cholesterol. Combining sildenafil with statins may enhance this effect, potentially improving survival rates among cancer patients.
Katherine Wilemon, Family Heart Foundation CEO, receives Honorary Fellow Award from ASPC for her advocacy and research efforts in inherited lipid disorders. The award reflects the organization's impact on advancing care and awareness for conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia.
High LDL-C led to 3.6 million deaths and 90.7 million disability-adjusted life years in 2023, despite declining mortality rates. The absolute burden increased due to population growth and aging, with regional disparities emerging.
Researchers found that genetic factors play a role in how individuals respond to a low-carb, high-fat diet, with those at higher risk experiencing greater increases in LDL cholesterol. The study suggests personalized dietary guidance based on genetic profiles could help identify who may experience adverse responses to certain diets.
A nationally representative analysis found substantial gaps in LDL-C control, with increasing disparities across primary prevention categories and underuse of lipid-lowering therapy. The study provides a contemporary population-level benchmark for the updated guideline framework.
A study by Mass General Brigham found that nearly 1 in 3 US adults without heart disease have LDL levels above the recommended goal, and 3 in 4 are not receiving any cholesterol-lowering medication. The gap is wider among those with established heart disease, where most are already receiving therapy but still not reaching goals.
The updated clinical guidelines broaden statin eligibility by looking beyond the next 10 years to a person's risk over several decades. The new recommendations apply to approximately 56.6% of adults ages 30-79, with an additional 21.5 million Americans now eligible.
A new study published in Hepatobiliary Communications reveals that standard CT scans can detect stage-specific tissue patterns predicting severe liver complications in chronic hepatitis B-related cirrhosis. Visceral fat and muscle shifts carry different warning meanings based on the patient's disease stage.
A six-month study found that regular avocado consumption was associated with a reduced concentration of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles in the blood, corresponding to an approximate 4% reduction in heart disease risk. This modest reduction indicates that anyone with obesity could benefit from avocado consumption.
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a biological pathway that may explain why some people experience muscle pain and weakness when taking statin cholesterol medication. This mechanism drives statin-induced muscle damage, challenging longstanding assumptions about how side-effects develop.
Researchers at UC San Diego discovered a previously unknown mechanism that contributes to high blood cholesterol by depleting LDL receptors. A CTSA inhibitor has already shown safety in humans and may be effective in treating high cholesterol, offering a new treatment option for patients.
Researchers developed a simple blood-based assessment to evaluate high-density lipoprotein's (HDL) cholesterol removal capacity from blood vessel walls. The study linked low HDL function to high-risk coronary plaques, supporting the use of this method for predicting cardiovascular risk.
Researchers discover that kinases play a crucial role in moving cholesterol to activate a growth pathway in aggressive cancers. Without these enzymes, cancer cells are blocked from fueling tumor growth. The study highlights the importance of targeting lipid enzymes as a potential treatment strategy for cancers with TP53 mutations.
The updated guidelines recommend treating high cholesterol earlier and using advanced tests like Lp(a) and CAC scans to identify hidden risks. Primary care clinicians play a crucial role in implementing these changes, but challenges exist due to short office visits and insurance coverage limitations.
A new randomized clinical trial shows that a low-fat vegan diet reduces greenhouse gas emissions by nearly three times more than a Mediterranean diet. The study also found significant improvements in key cardiometabolic outcomes, with the majority of environmental gains driven by eliminating meat, dairy, and eggs.
A Northwestern University study found that apolipoprotein B (apoB) testing is more effective and cost-efficient than standard cholesterol tests in guiding treatment and preventing heart attacks and strokes. The study suggests that apoB-guided care can improve population health and save lives at a lower cost.
A clinical trial found that intensive cholesterol-lowering therapy reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 31% in high-risk patients with diabetes. The treatment, evolocumab, lowered LDL-C levels by approximately 60%, and was well-tolerated.
The updated guideline consolidates evidence-based recommendations for managing dyslipidemias, offering a comprehensive approach to lower risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The guideline recommends earlier intervention through healthy lifestyle changes and considers the use of a new cardiovascular disease risk calculator, P...
Recent studies identify distinct gut microbial communities in people with dyslipidemia, suggesting a connection between the gut microbiome and heart disease precursor. The researchers found higher levels of Bacteroides caccae and lower levels of bacteria linked to metabolic stability. Future research aims to restore functional balance ...
A new study found that versions of both diet patterns emphasizing healthy foods are associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that focusing on overall diet quality may offer flexibility for individuals to choose eating patterns that align with their preferences while still supporting heart health.
A comprehensive scientific review highlights pecans' positive effects on cardiovascular health, including improved lipid metabolism and antioxidant defenses. While findings on blood sugar control are mixed, the review suggests pecans may support better diet quality and satiety.
The Family Heart Foundation, led by Matt Hasselbeck, aims to educate Americans about the risks of high LDL cholesterol and its connection to early heart disease. The campaign promotes free at-home screenings and offers support for individuals to protect themselves and their families from cardiovascular disease.
According to a recent study by FAIR Health, 57.5% of commercially insured patients in the US had at least one chronic condition in 2024. The average cost for a patient with no chronic conditions was nearly double that of a patient with one chronic condition.
A nationwide survey found that 61% of Americans are unaware of non-statin medications to lower cholesterol, while 73% have never heard of lipoprotein(a) or coronary artery calcium score testing. Non-statin options include Ezetimibe, PCSK9 Inhibitors, and Bempedoic Acid, which can help patients at risk for heart disease.
A recent review of bamboo consumption found promising health benefits, including improved metabolic health, reduced inflammation, and antioxidant activity. However, caution is advised due to potential risks associated with raw or improperly prepared bamboo.
Researchers have discovered a small RNA molecule that plays a key role in controlling cholesterol production and the development of heart disease. The molecule, tsRNA-Glu-CTC, was found to boost SREBP2 activity, leading to higher cholesterol levels and increased risk of atherosclerosis.
A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has designed a new light-controlled cholesterol molecule that selectively targets two poorly understood sterol transport proteins, ORP1 and ORP2. This breakthrough enables precise spatiotemporal control over cholesterol's biological activity, paving the way for advanced therapeutics.
Neoliensinine, a tribenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, has potent anti-T-CM activity and induces TUBA1B-mediated STING degradation via the lysosomal pathway. This promotes lysosome-dependent cell death in T-CM cells.
A systematic review of 17 randomized trials found that reducing saturated fat intake lowered all-cause mortality and cardiovascular deaths among high-cardiovascular risk individuals. For people at low to intermediate risk, cutting or replacing saturated fat intake offered little benefit over 5 years. The study suggests that saturated f...
A large meta-analysis of over 48,000 children found that well-planned plant-based diets can support healthy growth and even offer additional health benefits for children. However, the study also highlights risks of deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin B12 and zinc if not obtained through fortified foods or supplements.
The American College of Cardiology recommends a standardized front-of-packaging food labeling system to highlight key nutrients, helping consumers make informed dietary choices. The guidance also aims to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and promote overall health.
Researchers have identified a key mechanism behind statin-induced muscle damage, paving the way for new statins with reduced side effects. By understanding how statins interact with muscle proteins, scientists can design safer alternatives that preserve cholesterol-lowering benefits.
A new study by UC San Francisco combines genetic risk with cardiovascular disease risk factors to predict who is more likely to develop dementia. The expanded view may help those worried about dementia, as lifestyle changes and improved control of illnesses can reduce brain damage and potentially delay or prevent symptoms.
A new medication called DR10624 has shown promising results in reducing high triglyceride levels by over 60% in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. The treatment also improved cholesterol and liver health, offering a potential alternative for managing this condition.
A study found that combining PCSK9 inhibitor alirocumab with statin rosuvastatin reduced LDL cholesterol levels by more than 50% among patients after a heart transplant. The treatment was safe and showed significant cholesterol-lowering impact, but further studies are needed for confirmation.
A daily oral medication has been shown to lower bad cholesterol levels in people with a previous heart attack or stroke, or those at high risk for one. The study found that participants taking the medication had significant reductions in LDL-C levels and achieved guideline-recommended targets.
A quality improvement program helped reduce 'bad cholesterol' levels among military veterans, according to a preliminary presentation at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2025. The study found improvements in patient adherence and LDL-cholesterol goal attainment among participating veterans.
In a Phase 1 clinical trial, CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing therapy CTX310 reduced LDL cholesterol and triglycerides by nearly 50% on average, achieving large reductions in both for the first time. The treatment has shown promise as a one-and-done approach to transform care for patients with lifelong lipid disorders.
A new modeling study suggests that universal screening programs could make intensive monitoring and lifestyle changes in all children and young adults with high cholesterol cost-effective. Early recognition and management of high cholesterol can prevent or delay heart attacks, strokes, and dementia later in life.
Researchers found olezarsen significantly reduced acute pancreatitis incidence by 85% in patients with severely elevated triglyceride levels. The drug also lowered triglyceride levels below 500mg/dL in over 85% of participants.
A new study from Texas Biomedical Research Institute found that low-dose THC significantly reduced side effects and inflammation caused by HIV and antiretroviral therapy. The treatment also increased serotonin levels, lowered cholesterol and toxic bile acids, and improved cardiovascular health.
A recent study found that fewer than half of young adults with severely high cholesterol levels start taking a statin within five years of first high LDL-C measurement. The study highlights significant care gaps in lipid management among adults aged 18-39, particularly those at high risk for premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular dis...
The Family Heart Foundation has launched the Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative to educate primary care clinicians, healthcare insurance providers, and policymakers about high lipoprotein(a). The program aims to increase awareness, screening, and diagnosis of this genetic risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease.
A recent study at the University of Gothenburg discovered that two medications, cholestyramine and colesevelam, can rapidly eliminate perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the body. The findings suggest a potential therapeutic application for these medicines in reducing PFAS levels.
Researchers found that combining three biomarkers – lipoprotein(a), remnant cholesterol, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein – can reveal a nearly three-fold increase in heart attack risk. This combination approach may aid health care professionals in identifying individuals with high-risk profiles earlier.
A new resource identifies genetic variants associated with elevated 'bad' cholesterol, a major contributor to heart disease. Clinicians can now predict patient risk for heart attacks and strokes, allowing for prevention and early treatment.
A study found that preexisting hyperlipidemia in pregnancy is associated with heightened risks of obstetric complications and early cardiovascular events postpartum. Women with high cholesterol are at increased risk of arrhythmias, acute coronary syndrome, gestational diabetes, and labor delivery complications.
The American College of Cardiology has released a scientific statement on inflammation and its connection to various cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and heart failure. The statement confirms years of research confirming the importance of inflammation as an underlying contributor to CVDs.
A recent study found that testing for lipoprotein(a), a genetic risk factor for heart disease, is still uncommon in the US despite modest increases over the past decade. The study analyzed 300 million patient records and found that only 0.2% of the population has been tested, with significant regional and racial disparities
A multidisciplinary panel published in the Journal of Pediatrics advocates for accelerated diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia, a life-threatening genetic condition. Universal lipid screening is recommended to identify affected children at high risk of heart disease decades earlier than those without the condition.
A recent study analyzing data from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Surveys (2016-2023) found that cardiovascular disease risk increased in Mexico between 2016 and 2023. The average 10-year CVD risk was estimated at 9.5% using region-specific tools, highlighting the need for accurate models to predict local disease burden.
A new study from the University of Oklahoma has identified CD82 as a contributing factor to blood vessel leakage, which can initiate inflammation. The researchers found that lowering cholesterol levels with statins can strengthen vessel walls and reduce leakage.
Dr. Peter Tontonoz, a distinguished UCLA professor, will receive the American Heart Association's Basic Research Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to understanding lipid metabolism and its role in cardiometabolic disease. His work has transformed the scientific understanding of this critical heart health factor.
The Family Heart Foundation has partnered with seven leading healthcare systems to accelerate screening in people with cardiovascular disease who have been identified by the find Lp(a) initiative. Individuals with elevated Lp(a) levels are at increased risk of another heart attack or stroke, and early detection can help reduce this risk.