Research on the heart and how it stays healthy. Covers light exposure, tissue maintenance, trauma-related cardiovascular risk, and circadian effects.
The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology have updated recommendations for athletes with diagnosed heart disease. New research shows that the risk of sudden cardiac arrest is lower than previously thought for some athletes with irregular heartbeat disorders treated by implanted medical devices. However, patients...
Researchers found that eating more fruits and vegetables as young adults was associated with less calcified coronary artery plaque 20 years later. People who ate the most fruit and vegetable at the start had a 26% lower risk of developing calcified plaque compared to those who ate the least.
A new study published in JAMA found that pregnant women with preeclampsia have a higher risk of delivering an infant with a congenital heart defect. The research examined hospital records of over 1.9 million mother and infant pairs, revealing significant association between the diseases.
A new MRI study found that the main pumping chamber of the heart ages differently in men and women, with men's hearts becoming heavier and holding less blood. The study suggests that optimum treatment for heart failure may not be the same for women and men, highlighting the importance of personalized medicine.
Researchers found that Botox injections significantly reduced the risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF) after bypass surgery. In contrast, saline injections showed no such benefit. The study's results could lead to Botox being used as a preventive measure for AF in patients undergoing heart bypass or valve repair.
A large analysis found that preeclampsia is associated with a higher risk of noncritical heart defects in infants. Infants born to mothers with early-onset preeclampsia before 34 weeks also showed an increased risk of critical heart defects. However, the absolute risk remains low.
A team of researchers from Oxford and Stony Brook universities has developed a way to precisely control electrical waves in heart cells using light. This allows for fine control over wave speed, direction, and orientation, enabling unprecedented direct control of organ-level function without manipulating individual cells.
A new study found that elevated blood sugar levels in pregnancy are linked to an increased risk of congenital heart defects, including tetralogy of Fallot and dextrotransposition of the great arteries. High glucose levels were correlated with an increased risk of tetralogy of Fallot, but not dextrotransposition of the great arteries.
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.
Researchers have designed a specialized catheter that uses biodegradable adhesive and patch to fix holes in the heart without open heart surgery. The catheter is inserted through a vein and activates a patch with UV light, allowing it to secure itself in place and dissolve over time.
A new study from the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute shows that about 15% of patients with bioprosthetic aortic heart valves develop blood clots on the leaflets, which can impair valve motion. However, anti-coagulation medications like Warfarin quickly resolve the issue for all patients, regardless of the type of valve or procedure.
Research finds that higher levels of physical activity lower heart failure risk in the general population. Current U.S. guidelines may not be enough to reduce the risk, suggesting stronger recommendations are necessary.
Researchers found that sedentary time was associated with higher risks of heart and diabetes problems, regardless of exercise levels. The study suggests that reducing sedentary time can be beneficial for Hispanic adults' overall health.
Scientists have discovered a method to predict certain types of cardiac arrhythmias, allowing for potential prevention and improved heart health. The researchers used mathematical modeling to analyze the transition from normal to abnormal heartbeat patterns in embryonic chicken cells.
Scientists have identified 500 novel membrane proteins that play a critical role in normal heart function and may help uncover new information about heart failure and arrhythmias. The research focuses on protein Tmem65, which regulates communication between cardiac contractile cells.
Researchers from the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and Oxford University found that multiple common genetic variants contribute to heart disease, rather than a few rare variants. They identified 202 genetic variants in 129 gene regions that explain approximately 23% of coronary heart disease's heritability.
A new study found that treatment with life-saving medications has increased significantly in ischemic heart disease, but levels are still suboptimal. The study also revealed that patients with peripheral artery disease receive fewer recommended medications and have more comorbidities than others.
A new trial suggests that pacing may not be effective in preventing cardiac remodeling and improving functional or clinical outcomes in patients with large myocardial infarctions. The study, known as PRomPT, found no significant difference between patients who received pacing and those who did not.
The ESC guidelines now strongly recommend the radial approach over femoral access for coronary angiography and PCI in patients with acute coronary syndromes. The radial approach reduces vascular complications, major bleeding events, and all-cause mortality. Additionally, the guidelines suggest a tailored duration of dual antiplatelet t...
Researchers found that quitting smoking within a year after a heart attack can lead to similar levels of chest pain and mental health as non-smokers. Smokers who continued to smoke after a heart attack had the worst health status of the four groups, with increased odds of having chest pain.
A NIHR-funded study has found that repositioning patients after the Valsalva manoeuvre significantly increases its success rate in treating supraventricular tachycardia. The modified technique improved heart rhythm return rates from 17.5% to 43.5%, offering a cost-free and comfortable option for patients.
A population study reveals that a well-balanced maternal diet before pregnancy reduces the risk of certain heart abnormalities in newborns. The research found that women with higher diet quality had a lower risk of congenital heart defects, including tetralogy of Fallot and atrial septal defects.
Research reveals that young adults, especially women, are not benefiting equally from declining heart disease death rates. Despite improvements in older adults, the annual percentage change in death rates for young men and women showed no improvement between 1990-1999 and has only fallen one percent since 2000.
Researchers found that patients with acute cardiogenic shock who received extracorporeal life support had better cardiac recovery rates compared to those with chronic conditions. The study showed a 59% survival rate for patients in the acute group, while only 14% survived in the chronic group.
A UCLA-led study found that only 1 in 10 heart failure patients are referred to a cardiac rehabilitation program after hospitalization, despite strong evidence of its benefits. The study's findings point to the need for improved awareness and strategies to increase referrals.
The American Heart Association's scientific statement found that mobile health technologies can be effective for managing weight, increasing physical activity, and quitting smoking. However, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness for other health conditions.
Researchers analyzed 43 patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) who underwent either an arterial or venous shunt as part of the hybrid palliation procedure. The study found that the arterial shunt group showed better pulmonary arterial growth, shorter surgical times, and higher oxygen saturations at discharge. However, no ...
Researchers at the University of Otago discovered that a normal cell process called autophagy is deregulated in diabetic hearts, leading to progressive loss of cardiac cells and cardiac dysfunction. Targeting the Beclin-1 protein presents an promising avenue for new treatments of diabetes-related cardiac disease.
A new genetic test developed at Stanford University School of Medicine can accurately pinpoint the likely genetic causes of heart conditions in just a couple of days. The test uses a streamlined assay that looks at just 88 genes known to carry mutations that cause heart problems, and costs about $100.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery found that delaying surgery for severe mitral regurgitation until symptoms appear doubles the risk of postoperative mortality and heart failure. Early surgery, on the other hand, provides the best long-term outcomes, with lower mortality and congestive heart failur...
A recent study published in Circulation found that a traditional Southern-style diet is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. Researchers analyzed data from over 17,000 adults and found that those who consumed foods conforming to the Southern dietary pattern had a 56% higher risk of heart disease compared to those who ate it ...
San Diego State University researchers have developed a way to use biotechnology to rejuvenate cardiac progenitor cells, which replicate indefinitely into new heart cells. By overexpressing an enzyme associated with cancer cell growth, they've shown promise in increasing cell proliferation and lifespan in mice, as well as human tissue.
Researchers found that baby rats whose mothers were fed a high-fat diet had smaller bitter taste receptors in their hearts and larger hearts than normal, suggesting an impact on cardiovascular health.
A Johns Hopkins-led study of 1,200 people with implanted defibrillators shows that within a few years, one-quarter experienced substantial improvements in heart function, reducing the risk of arrhythmia and device shocks. Improved heart function was primarily attributed to concurrent use of heart failure medications and pacemakers.
A quality improvement initiative at Texas Children's Hospital has led to a significant reduction in median waitlist times for pediatric heart transplant patients. The hospital revised its protocols to expand donor heart size parameters and improve patient severity status, resulting in faster organ allocation.
A University of Pittsburgh study finds that late- and post-menopausal women have more fat around their hearts than pre-menopausal counterparts, increasing the risk of heart disease. Hormonal changes during menopause may be to blame for this shift in fat deposits.
A systematic evidence review suggests that cognitive decline following invasive heart procedures is unlikely in older adults, with little to no difference found between treatment groups. However, individual study quality was low and more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Research published in the American Heart Association's journal Circulation found that blacks are more likely to experience sudden cardiac arrest, particularly at younger ages. The study also identified a higher prevalence of non-coronary heart problems among black patients, including congestive heart failure and left ventricular hypert...
Researchers found a significant association between wildfire-related air pollution and an increased risk of heart-related incidents, including out-of-hospital cardiac arrests and emergency department visits. The study suggests that fine particulate matter may act as a trigger factor for acute cardiovascular health events.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have found that changes in body temperature can cause arrhythmia, leading to sudden cardiac death. The study, published in the Journal of Physiology, identifies a protein sensitive to temperature fluctuations that can disrupt heart function.
Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare disorder characterized by weakened heart pumping, affecting otherwise healthy pregnant women. A new study highlights the need for further investigation into prevention and treatment options, as current evidence is scarce and of poor quality.
A group of top doctors and scientists propose a paradigm shift in NCD prevention and treatment, emphasizing the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles. They suggest integrating and collaborating with various stakeholders, including governments, companies, and organizations, to create effective change.
Researchers found that people with a small opening in the heart (PFO) were more susceptible to acute mountain sickness and had impaired lung function at high altitudes. The study suggests PFOs may impair performance at high altitude due to inefficient blood oxygenation.
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 hospital has successfully integrated two common imaging techniques to produce a three-dimensional anatomic model of a patient's heart. The technology combines computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with echocardiography, enabling more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
A Duke University Medical Center study found that older heart patients with reduced function may benefit from defibrillators, which can lower the risk of death by one-third. However, the devices are underutilized due to factors such as advanced age, transitions in care, and mandatory waiting periods.
A new study published in Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback found a significant link between lower heart rate variability and sexual dysfunction in women. Women with below-average heart rate variability were more likely to report sexual arousal problems and overall sexual difficulties.
The study found almost double the number of differentially expressed heart and liver genes in translation compared to transcription. This discovery sheds light on the genes and regulatory pathways underlying disease, offering new avenues for research.
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.
A faulty calcium channel in heart cells can cause a rare but potentially fatal heart condition called CPVT. When someone with the faulty gene exercises, adrenaline release can flood into the heart cells, causing a fatal arrhythmia.
A new molecular imaging scan detects dangerous protein deposits in the heart, significantly increasing cardiac risk. The scan uses a widely available agent to assess amyloid buildup and predict future heart attacks.
Research shows that public access defibrillation on people suffering cardiac arrest is associated with a large increase in chances of survival. However, despite the great potential, publicly accessible Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are not being used enough.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Los Angeles identified a new source of cells that can develop into coronary vessels and found the signaling protein CXCL12 guiding this process. The study may have clinical relevance, helping diagnose abnormal coronary vessels and developing interventional strategies to prevent heart attacks.
A new study shows that personalized music playlists with tempo-pace synchronization can significantly increase exercise adherence in cardiac rehabilitation patients, with an average of 105.4 minutes more exercise per week. This approach has the potential to improve long-term survival and life expectancy for these patients.
Researchers found that patients with higher activity levels after ICD implantation had a 40% lower risk of death at four years compared to those with lower activity. The study analyzed over 98,000 patients and showed that even small increases in activity were associated with a significant reduction in mortality.
Researchers analyzed 2,765 adults who underwent angioplasty and found that quitting smoking significantly improved quality of life and reduced chest pain. Smoking cessation was associated with a lower risk of chest pain at one year after the procedure.
Behnaz Ghoraani's novel algorithm allows improved and patient-specific localization of electrical disturbance sites, enabling clinicians to better target the problem. The technology helps doctors 'see' what's going on in the atrium by analyzing patterns of electrical signals, guiding them to where they need to sense.
A new chest strap ECG monitor has been developed using wettable electrodes that are kept moist by an artificial sweating process. The device can now be used for long-term heart rate monitoring, addressing previous limitations of gel electrodes.
A systematic review of over 320,000 patients found digoxin associated with a 21% increased risk of death from any cause. High levels of digoxin in the blood correlate with an increased death rate in patients. The authors call for randomized controlled trials to confirm these findings.
A Danish study found that more than 75% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors returned to work, with a significant increase in return-to-work rates among those who received bystander CPR. The study also revealed that survivors spent an average of three years back at work and earned the same salary after arrest.