Articles tagged with Heart
A multi-arm, placebo-controlled study showed that ACE inhibitors and beta blockers can significantly offset the risk of heart problems for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. The data demonstrated a significant reduction in cardiotoxicity for patients on these medications who received doxorubicin before Herceptin.
The wearable cardioverter defibrillator was associated with a 35% lower risk of death in patients recovering from a heart attack. While it didn't reduce sudden cardiac deaths, the device showed promise as an interim therapy for patients awaiting evaluation for implantable cardioverter defibrillators.
A study found that wearing a self-adhering chest patch can detect atrial fibrillation (AFib) more quickly than usual care, with participants experiencing nearly three times the likelihood of being diagnosed. The patch recorded continuous ECG data over 14 days, capturing electrical activity and identifying rhythm abnormalities, includin...
A study by Intermountain Medical Center found that PET scans detected severe obstructive coronary artery disease at a rate of 79% compared to 70% for SPECT scans. Additionally, PET scans identified patients who did not need an invasive procedure more accurately than SPECT scans.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that menopausal hormone therapy is not associated with adverse changes in cardiac structure and function, but may be linked to some healthier heart characteristics. The research examined 1,604 post-menopausal women and found significantly smaller left ventricular and left atrial chamber volumes.
A new study suggests that exercising can reduce the effectiveness of Ranolazine, a second-line therapeutic agent for angina pectoris and some inherited arrhythmias. Elevated body temperature and heart rate may decrease Ranolazine's ability to maintain healthy heart rhythms during exercise.
Research found South Asian people are less likely to need a pacemaker for bradycardia compared to white Europeans, despite higher incidence of coronary artery disease and stroke in South Asians. The study suggests genetic differences may explain the disparity in heart condition susceptibility between ethnic groups.
A study by the American College of Cardiology found that listening to music during a standard cardiac stress test can prolong activity and participation. On average, participants who listened to music exercised for almost one minute longer than those without music.
A new smartwatch ECG can accurately detect atrial fibrillation (AFib) with a high degree of sensitivity and specificity. When coupled with physician review, the device can reliably differentiate between AFib and normal heart rhythm.
Using an automated external defibrillator (AED) increases cardiac arrest survival, especially when applied by a bystander before emergency responders arrive. The American Heart Association found that nearly 66% of victims who received a shock from a publicly-available AED survived to hospital discharge.
Researchers found that patients at risk of inherited heart disease often don't understand the implications of genetic test results, leading to psychological and behavioral changes. This study highlights the need for better communication around cardiac genetic counseling prior to testing.
A new scientific statement by a Mayo Clinic led team suggests that conservative treatment may be more effective for women with SCAD. The average age of women with SCAD ranges from 45 to 53 years, and it is the No. 1 cause of heart attack during pregnancy and in the period right after giving birth.
A new study shows that injecting cardiac progenitor cells can reverse fatal heart disease caused by Duchenne muscular dystrophy, while also improving limb strength and movement ability. Exosomes secreted by the injected cells unexpectedly restore muscle function in a mouse model of muscular dystrophy.
A study of 348 preschoolers who survived cardiac surgery found hearing loss in 21.6% of children, associated with language and cognitive problems by age four. Researchers recommend early hearing evaluations between 24-30 months to increase timely medical intervention.
Researchers found that people born with heart defects in Denmark had a 60% higher risk of dementia compared to the general population, with those diagnosed before age 65 facing an even greater risk. The study's findings suggest that continued monitoring and management may be necessary for individuals born with congenital heart defects.
A study by Kaiser Permanente and University of Washington found that patients with chronic kidney disease who receive implantable cardioverter defibrillators experience a significantly increased risk of subsequent hospitalization. The use of ICDs was associated with a 49% increased risk of hospitalization for heart failure and a 25% in...
A new scientific statement highlights the interconnection between cardiovascular disease and breast cancer, emphasizing the need for research and specialized treatment. The American Heart Association emphasizes prevention and modification of cardiac risk factors during and after breast cancer treatment.
A new multi-gene test predicts a high risk for early-onset heart disease in 1 out of 53 individuals, surpassing the prevalence of a rare genetic defect. The study suggests that combining polygenic screening with current testing could identify five-fold more cases with a genetic explanation.
Researchers at the Salk Institute have found a streamlined method to generate functioning heart cells from embryonic stem cells by turning off a single gene, YAP. This discovery offers scientists a simpler protocol for creating cardiomyocytes for research and regenerative therapies.
The new app, developed by Intermountain Healthcare researchers, monitors heart failure patients' medical tests and health status to promptly notify clinicians. Using the app led to significantly improved detection of disease advancements, with intervention patients' survival rates increasing.
Researchers developed a genomic blood test that uses gene activity data to predict survival rates for patients with advanced heart failure who undergo mechanical circulatory support devices. The test was 93% accurate in predicting outcomes and could improve survival rates and treatment decisions.
Research published in Experimental Physiology found that spinal cord injury affects the heart, with changes dependent on injury severity. The study suggests preserving more nerve fibers can improve heart function in individuals with spinal cord injury, who are at higher risk of heart disease.
Patients with atrial fibrillation admitted to rural hospitals have a 17% increased risk of death during hospitalization compared to urban hospitals. The study analyzed data from the National Inpatient Sample and found that rural hospitals are associated with higher mortality rates for AF patients.
A recent study found that nearly 1 in 5 NBA players have abnormal electrocardiogram findings, some linked to athletic training. The research aimed to assess athlete-specific criteria for distinguishing normal from abnormal ECG patterns.
A nationwide study found that mandatory newborn screening policies for critical congenital heart defects significantly reduced infant cardiac deaths. The study, which analyzed data from 2007-2013, showed a notable decrease in early infant deaths due to these defects in states with implemented mandatory screening policies.
Researchers found that patients with heart cell damage (PMI) had six times more likely to die within 30 days compared to those without PMI. The high death rate persisted up to one year after surgery.
Over 5,000 heart transplants annually worldwide, with significant improvements in immunosuppression and donor sourcing. The 50th anniversary celebrates pioneers like Christiaan Barnard and Norman Shumway.
Researchers developed a powerful new computer model that replicates the biological activity within the heart preceding sudden cardiac death. The model has yielded important clues for developing treatments, identifying key molecular factors associated with arrhythmias.
A UK study found that less than one per cent of children born with congenital heart disease participate in clinical trials, highlighting a need for improved treatment options. Researchers suggest establishing a congenital heart disease research network to conduct well-designed clinical trials and improve surgical outcomes.
The number of new heart failure cases in the UK has increased by 12% between 2002 and 2014, reaching numbers similar to those of breast, prostate, lung, and bowel cancer. The study found that people from deprived backgrounds are more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age with multiple chronic conditions.
A diabetes drug that increases the movement of regulatory T cells into human organs may help prevent transplant rejection without side effects. Researchers found that the enzyme glucokinase is linked to increased movement of these immune cells, which act as guardians against organ rejection.
A new computational model allows researchers to estimate the probability of rare heartbeat irregularities that can cause sudden cardiac death. The model realistically incorporates molecular processes that occur in heart cells, increasing its accuracy.
Research at Anglia Ruskin University and Stockholm University links sensitivity to heartbeats with generosity. Participants in a game showed higher generosity when better at detecting heartbeats.
A new diagnostic test found that disappearing of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs in children. The test showed a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity, making it a valuable tool for primary care docs to exclude costly cardiologist referrals.
A Phase I/II clinical trial found that cardiac progenitor cell infusions improved heart function and arm strength in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The study showed a 7% reduction in heart scar tissue and improved skeletal muscle function in the hands and forearms of patients who received the treatment.
A new study found that disappearance of heart murmur while standing reliably rules out pathologic heart murmurs. The test, using an acoustic-based stethoscope, has a high predictive positive value and specificity, but poor sensitivity.
A team of researchers has created the first atlas of the healthy human heart's protein composition, which will aid in identifying differences between healthy and diseased hearts. The study found that despite functional differences between the right and left halves of the heart, they share similar protein compositions.
A new study from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that the risk of sudden cardiac arrest during or after sex is exceedingly small. The study analyzed over 4,500 cases and found that only 34 cases occurred during or within an hour of engaging in sex, with nearly 20% of these patients surviving.
Researchers analyzed PCI outcomes at over 650 hospitals, finding similar rates of in-hospital deaths, acute kidney injury, and bleeding between ranked and unranked hospitals. The study suggests that safe and high-quality stent procedures are performed nationwide, regardless of hospital ranking.
Research found only 34 cases of SCA linked to sexual activity out of 4,557 total SCAs in Portland, Oregon. Patients who experienced SCA related to sex had a higher rate of ventricular fibrillation/tachycardia and lower bystander CPR rates
Researchers found that statins prescribed at the time of discharge significantly reduce the risk of future heart attacks, strokes, or other cardiovascular events. High-intensity statin doses showed greater benefits, particularly for younger patients, with a 21% reduction in risk.
E-cigarette aerosols slow the heart rate and prolong the electrical cycle in mice. Heating propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin generates toxic compounds that trigger cardiovascular effects, including bradycardia and increased blood pressure.
Researchers found that only 34 cases of cardiac arrest occurred during or within an hour of sexual intercourse out of 4,557 cases. Men were more likely to experience cardiac arrest during sex, and bystander CPR was performed in only one-third of the cases.
Researchers found that prolonged TV viewing increases the risk of developing venous thromboembolism, even in those who meet physical activity guidelines. The study suggests that incorporating physical activity into daily routines, such as walking or using a treadmill while watching TV, can help mitigate this risk.
Researchers found that sixth-graders who learned Hands-Only CPR through music and video games performed better than those who only watched a video. Most students recalled calling 911 and providing high-quality compressions, suggesting that tempo-reinforcing tools can help children learn effective CPR.
A study found that Latinos are less likely to know what an automated external defibrillator (AED) is and who can use it. The lack of awareness may affect survival rates from sudden cardiac arrests in Latino neighborhoods.
According to preliminary research, men are more likely to receive bystander CPR in public locations and have a higher chance of survival. In contrast, women are less likely to receive CPR in public settings, highlighting a gap in bystander CPR delivery that can inform future messaging and training.
A new study found that more moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity significantly reduces the risk of death among older women, but light intensity activity or sedentary behavior had no independent association. The research suggests that even low-level activities can have health benefits for other outcomes.
The new guidelines aim to prevent sudden cardiac death in patients with ventricular arrhythmias. The guideline recommends the use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and provides guidance on genetic counseling and testing.
A recent study published in HeartRhythm found that blacks have a lower risk of atrial fibrillation compared to whites, despite having similar risk factors. The research suggests that the frequency of early beats in the atria, known as premature atrial contractions, may be heritable and explain the racial differences in AF rates.
A study published in The Lancet found that moving heart surgery to the afternoon can reduce the risk of heart damage and major cardiac events. Afternoon surgery was associated with a 50% lower risk of major cardiac events compared to morning surgery, suggesting that synchronization with the body's circadian clock may improve outcomes.
A study published in The Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy can affect kidney function, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease. Researchers identified interventions to improve outcomes, including nephrologist involvement and enhanced dialysis tra...
Research finds individuals with higher thyroid hormone levels, even within normal range, are more likely to develop irregular heartbeat. The study analyzed data from 30,085 individuals and found a significant increase in risk associated with moderate increases in FT4 levels.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University identified two variants of single-nucleotide polymorphism associated with SVC arrhythmogenicity. These genetic factors, age, body mass index, and left ventricular ejection fraction, play a role in atrial fibrillation development.
A team of researchers is working on a computer software that can deliver better therapies for patients with life-threatening heart failure. The computer model will take MRI or genetic data of a patient and build a multiscale simulation of their heart, leading to more personalized treatment plans.
A new study found that men develop atrial fibrillation about a decade earlier than women and that being overweight is a significant risk factor. Researchers analyzed data from 79,793 people in Europe and found that men had higher diagnosis rates, especially after age 50, while women's rates increased after age 60.
A UK survey found that 1 in 5 adults witness someone collapsing due to cardiac arrest, yet the majority do not intervene. The British Heart Foundation is urging all young people to learn life-saving CPR skills to improve survival rates.
Researchers found that mitochondrial DNA copy number is a novel biomarker predicting cardiovascular disease risk, especially for sudden cardiac death. This could help physicians accurately predict life-threatening events and inform treatment decisions with statins.
A new study found that watching hockey games live or on TV can cause a substantial effect on the cardiovascular system, with average heart rate increases of 75% and 110%, respectively. The emotional stress response triggered by high-stakes moments in the game can trigger adverse cardiovascular events.
A new study by University of Guelph researchers found that female ovarian hormones and a circadian 'clock' molecule protect women's heart health as they age. This discovery may help prevent heart disease in older adults, with implications for both men and women.