Research on the heart and how it stays healthy. Covers light exposure, tissue maintenance, trauma-related cardiovascular risk, and circadian effects.
Researchers have identified protein clumping in the hearts of mice and people with heart failure, suggesting a potential link between the two conditions. The team used non-invasive PET scans to visualize the clumps, which could lead to advances in monitoring disease progression and testing new therapies.
Researchers found that immune cells in the bloodstream can worsen heart disease when they migrate to the heart. Blocking their migration improved symptoms in mouse models of heart disease, offering a novel therapeutic approach for non-ischemic cardiomyopathy.
A study published in the American Heart Association's Circulation Journal found that following five healthy habits can significantly improve longevity for both men and women. The research analyzed data from thousands of adults and estimated that maintaining these habits could add over a decade to life expectancy, with women seeing an i...
A new study developed a novel risk tool to predict 30-day readmission rates in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The tool calculates a score based on several variables, including chronic kidney disease, anemia, and discharge disposition, with a c-statistic of 0.63.
A significant update to the PROGRESS-CTO International Registry reveals successful outcomes of Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Intervention (CTO PCI) for over 3,000 patients. The study found high success rates with acceptable complications, supporting its use in experienced centers.
A new study has found that patients who undergo TAVR procedure and stay in the hospital for more than 72 hours may be at risk of negative short and long-term outcomes. The study identified independent predictors of both early and delayed discharge, with delayed discharge associated with worse one-year outcomes.
Researchers discovered the Hippo pathway is essential for normal heart and blood vessel development. The study used single cell transcriptomics to analyze thousands of cells from developing heart tissue, revealing new insights into cellular and molecular processes leading to an adult heart.
Researchers found mice with induced heart failure fared better after being treated with antibiotics for five weeks, which sterilized the gut. This suggests that modulating the microbiota could modulate T cell activation and changes in the heart that lead to heart failure.
Research published in the journal Heart found that eating several servings of nuts per week may lower the risk of atrial fibrillation and heart failure. The study, which tracked over 61,000 Swedish adults for 17 years, found a strong association between nut consumption and reduced risk of these cardiovascular conditions.
A new study published in The Lancet found that regular drinking above the recommended UK guidelines for alcohol could take years off one's life. Drinking more than 5 drinks per week was linked to a higher risk of stroke, fatal aneurysm, heart failure, and death.
A recent study found significant sex and racial gaps in cardiac rehabilitation referral at hospital discharge, with females and minority groups receiving lower rates. By increasing referrals, long-term mortality could be reduced by up to 40% for women and 25-38% for African-American, Hispanic, and Asian patients
A recent study by Donna Shelley et al found that small urban primary care practices consistently meet or exceed Million Hearts goals for cardiovascular disease care. However, these practices struggle to achieve clinical targets for patients with multiple risk factors, highlighting the need for support in managing complex cases.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that Medicaid expansion in Michigan did not negatively impact patient outcomes for coronary artery disease procedures. The research used data from 7,558 CABG procedures and 45,183 PCI procedures performed at various hospitals across the state.
The new MR Multitasking technique allows for faster and more comfortable cardiac MRI tests by continuously acquiring image data, separating motion from other changes into multiple time dimensions. This method was found to be accurate in testing healthy volunteers and cardiac patients, completing tests in as little as 90 seconds.
A new study found that optimistic Latinos are more likely to meet the criteria for ideal cardiovascular health, with each unit increase in optimism associated with a 3% higher odds. Optimism levels differed by ancestry, with Latinos of Cuban and Central American heritage being the most optimistic.
Researchers have identified a new therapeutic target, OMA1, which protects cardiomyocytes from death and deterioration in heart function when the heart is under stress. Inhibition of OMA1 prevents heart failure in models of chronic tachycardia, hypertension, and myocardial ischemia with cardiac hypertrophy.
A study found that depression is associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder. Participants who scored highest on a clinical screening test for depression had a 30% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation than those with normal test scores.
A smartwatch coupled with a machine learning algorithm detected atrial fibrillation (AF) with high accuracy in patients undergoing treatment for AF. The study used data from 9,750 participants and found promising results for the use of commercially available smartwatches to detect AF.
Atrial fibrillation affects millions worldwide, increasing risk of stroke and heart failure. A new study finds Apixaban and VKAs safe for treatment during catheter ablation procedures, with a significant improvement in cognitive function. The results will reassure clinicians that continuous Apixaban is an effective alternative to VKAs.
A study published in Circulation Journal identified four microRNA molecules in the bloodstream that could predict the onset of atrial fibrillation. The researchers found that these microRNAs were significantly upregulated in the serum of patients with AF and diseased mice, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for disease.
Researchers found that generic clopidogrel was as effective as Plavix in reducing mortality and hospitalization rates among heart attack and chest pain patients. The switch to a generic version resulted in significant cost savings for the Canadian health system.
A study found that patients with a high-risk PFO who received a medical device to close the hole in their heart after a stroke fared better than those who received medications alone. The trial suggested that closure can help prevent subsequent strokes and related problems, particularly in those with a high-risk PFO.
A randomized controlled trial found that patients with myocardial injury after non-cardiac surgery experienced a 28% lower risk of major vascular complications when treated with dabigatran. The study showed significant benefits in reducing the risk of death, heart attack, and stroke.
Researchers found that stress from open-heart surgery reduces vitamin D levels in patients. However, aggressive supplementation with vitamin D3 before and after surgery can completely eliminate the drop in vitamin D levels. This study highlights the importance of maintaining optimal vitamin D levels to prevent cardiovascular problems.
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.