Research on the heart and how it stays healthy. Covers light exposure, tissue maintenance, trauma-related cardiovascular risk, and circadian effects.
A new study examines the effect of rapid infusion of sodium bicarbonate on gas exchange and coronary and cerebral perfusion in the immediate post-resuscitation phase. The study found that rapid administration led to a significant rise in myocardial and cerebral perfusion, as well as higher levels of exhaled carbon dioxide.
A study found that fetuses with single-ventricle congenital heart disease are more susceptible to social-emotional problems compared to those with two-ventricle congenital heart disease. Infants with impaired prenatal brain growth also experience worsened language, cognitive, and motor outcomes by 18 months.
A new study found that following a Mediterranean-style diet can lower the risk of preeclampsia by at least 20% in pregnant women. The research surveyed over 8,000 women and found that racial differences in rates of preeclampsia were more related to socioeconomic factors than genetic or biological ones.
A cross-racial study of 1.87 million US veterans found significant differences in dementia incidence across five racial groups, with Hispanic and Black veterans at highest risk. Rates were significantly higher for Hispanics (99%) and Blacks (55%), while Asian veterans showed a 24% increase compared to whites.
A new cell therapy has shown promising results in slowing the progression of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a rare genetic disorder. The treatment uses heart cells to improve skeletal muscle and heart function, offering a potential cure for advanced disease cases.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that SGLT2 inhibitors reduce hospitalizations and cardiovascular deaths in heart failure patients, regardless of diabetes status. The analysis also warned of increased genital infections associated with treatment.
A new international study confirms the low risk of myopericarditis following COVID-19 vaccination, with a rate of 18 cases per million doses. The study found no statistically significant difference between the incidence of myopericarditis after COVID-19 vaccination and other vaccinations.
Researchers have gained unprecedented insights into the heart's dynamic ultrastructure using high-resolution electron microscopy. This knowledge is crucial for developing new therapeutic concepts for heart attacks and cardiac arrhythmias.
Raising awareness about cardiac radiation exposure reduced the number of patients receiving high heart doses in lung cancer patients. The study found that standardized cardiac dose constraints improved patient care without minimizing tumor treatment or increasing dosage to other at-risk organs.
The American College of Cardiology is partnering with the Korean Society of Cardiology to host ACC Asia 2022 Together with KSC Spring Conference. The conference aims to critically examine emerging trends in cardiovascular care and share evidence-based strategies for improving heart health.
Disparities in social determinants of health affect people with congenital heart disease, leading to unequal access to care. Strategies to address these issues include increasing specialist availability and improving telehealth capabilities.
Researchers recommend expanding diagnostic workup to include cardiac arrhythmias for unexplained enuresis in adults and children. An electrocardiogram is a cost-effective and non-invasive test that can detect potentially fatal diseases.
Researchers discovered that Viagra and a common over-the-counter drug TUDCA restored mitochondrial processes, which drive heart failure in HLHS patients. This could lead to new therapies for treating heart failure without relying on heart transplants.
A recent study published in Molecular Therapy Nucleic Acids found that the molecule urocortin-2 may regulate recovery processes after a heart attack by modulating miR-29a. Treatment with urocortin-2 could favor patient recovery by regulating apoptosis and fibrosis.
A randomized clinical trial comparing FFR-guided and IVUS-guided PCI found similar outcomes for patients with intermediate coronary artery stenosis. Patients evaluated by FFR underwent fewer stents but had similar rates of adverse events and improved quality of life.
The study found that TAVR resulted in significantly less structural valve deterioration after five years compared to SAVR. Patients with structural valve deterioration were at about twice the risk of death or rehospitalization as those without, highlighting the benefits of TAVR in reducing mortality and hospitalization risks.
Researchers found a significant decline in in-hospital mortality and secondary endpoints for STEMI patients with COVID-19 in 2021 compared to 2020. Vaccination status showed zero hospital deaths among vaccinated patients, while unvaccinated patients experienced high death rates.
A large trial found that maintaining body temperature at 35.5C during surgery does not reduce the risk of cardiac complications or other serious outcomes. The study suggests that routine care with a target temperature of 36C is sufficient and may even be unnecessary.
Dr. Valentin Fuster is receiving the inaugural 'Valentin Fuster Award for Innovation in Science' at the ACC's 71st Annual Scientific Session. The award honors his contributions to cardiovascular medicine and scientific research.
A study found that implantable heart monitors do not reduce cardiovascular events overall, but patients with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) heart attacks saw strong benefits. Monitoring for abnormal heart rhythms may help guide care for NSTEMI patients.
Researchers found that AI-enhanced diagnosis helps doctors accurately detect fetal congenital heart disease, with fellows making the most accurate diagnoses. The new system uses graphical charts to represent the AI's analysis of ultrasound videos, improving accuracy and trust among medical professionals.
The new guidelines recommend genetic testing for patients with inherited cardiac diseases and their relatives, particularly in conditions like long QT syndrome. Genetic counselling is also essential, as a diagnosis can have life-changing consequences, including impact on insurance and employment opportunities.
A study found that omecamtiv mecarbil did not improve exercise capacity or daily physical activity in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. The drug was well-tolerated, but its effectiveness in improving functional limitations was limited.
A global trial found that people with heart failure who received an annual flu shot had lower rates of pneumonia and hospitalization on a year-round basis. The study also revealed significant reductions in major cardiovascular events during peak flu season.
The study found a twofold regression of coronary atherosclerosis and stabilization of high-risk plaques in patients who received alirocumab, compared to those who received a placebo. Patients treated with alirocumab also needed significantly fewer repeat stenting procedures.
A smartwatch app was found to accurately detect atrial fibrillation in nearly 94% of users who followed up with a clinician. The study also screened participants for obstructive sleep apnea and found that those flagged for possible sleep apnea were 1.5 times more likely to have AFib.
A new consensus document provides practical guidance on using digital devices to monitor heart rhythm and rate. Digital devices can detect asymptomatic arrhythmias that can be treated, such as atrial fibrillation, which increases stroke risk. Experts advise patients and doctors to use devices correctly and establish a management plan.
A large study found that small to moderate-sized leaks after left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) procedures significantly increased the risk of adverse events such as clotting and bleeding in AFib patients. Researchers suggest optimizing device placement techniques and using newer devices may help minimize leaks and reduce stroke risk.
The European Society of Cardiology publishes a consensus statement outlining preventive measures to ensure safe medical procedures for patients with implanted electronic cardiac devices. These steps include checking device reliance, testing for magnetic field responses, and reprogramming devices before MRI scans.
A study of 806 patients with heart failure found that reducing sodium intake improved symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, and coughing. However, it had no effect on rates of death, hospitalization, or emergency department visits. The researchers recommend a lower sodium intake limit for heart failure patients.
Researchers analyzed interviews with participants and found that the program's success was due to its community context, support network, and direct contact with pharmacists. The team plans to track barbershop patrons and explore how public health measures during COVID-19 impacted community-based health interventions.
A study of over 365,000 adults found that people who survive an ischemic stroke are more likely to develop major heart complications and have an increased risk of death and future strokes. Researchers highlight the importance of secondary prevention efforts for this high-risk population.
Cedars-Sinai researchers created a clinical risk assessment algorithm that identifies patients at highest risk of treatable sudden cardiac arrest. The algorithm, based on 13 clinical, electrocardiogram, and echocardiographic variables, has the potential to enhance prevention and treatment options for this fatal condition.
A new study found that non-medical first responders, such as police and fire departments, are associated with higher cardiac arrest survival rates. They initiated CPR in 31.8% of incidents and AED use in 6.1% of cases, leading to significantly improved chances of survival and hospital discharge.
A study published in European Heart Journal found that serum sodium levels can help identify adults with a greater chance of experiencing heart disease. The research suggests that staying well-hydrated and consuming sufficient amounts of fluids throughout life may also reduce the risk of severe heart problems in the future.
Researchers at UVA Health System discovered a cluster of cells in the brainstem that controls the body's response to severe blood loss. The study found that re-activating these neurons can restore blood pressure and heart rate in lab rats, offering new hope for treating traumatic injuries.
Researchers at UConn Health found that deleting TRPM2 from macrophages in mice reduced atherosclerosis by inhibiting the TRPM2–CD36 inflammatory axis. This approach prevented foamy macrophages and alleviated inflammation in arteries.
A new study by the American College of Cardiology reveals that exercise nearly doubles the cardiovascular benefit for individuals with depression or anxiety. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events by up to 22% in those with anxiety and depression, compared to 10% for those without these con...
A study found that female principal investigators led fewer trials and those funded by industry sponsors, but more trials led by women were associated with higher enrollment of female subjects. This highlights the need for increased female representation in clinical trial leadership.
A study found that living near high levels of transportation noise increases the risk of heart attack by 72%, with 5% of hospitalizations attributable to elevated noise levels. Noise exposure can cause chronic stress, sleep disturbances, and emotional distress, leading to cardiovascular health issues.
Researchers found that women are less likely to undergo common heart procedures and more likely to die in the hospital after receiving them. The study analyzed data from over 2 million hospitalizations for heart procedures between 2016 and 2019, revealing significant disparities in treatment and outcomes based on sex and race.
A study found that 42% of TikTok videos on high blood pressure focused on alternative medicine, while only 5% mentioned exercise. Most creators were not healthcare professionals, highlighting the need for more emphasis on credible sources.
A recent study found that approximately 1 in 3 heart attack survivors experience significant mental decline in the days and months following their heart attack. Cognitive deficits can impact quality of life and treatment adherence, emphasizing the need for cardiologists to monitor patients regularly.
A study suggests that smartwatch heart rate measurement algorithms are less effective in people with darker skin tones due to increased melanin absorption. Researchers emphasize the need for diverse population inclusion and explore alternative light wavelengths for more accurate readings.
Researchers analyzed health records of nearly half a million patients post-heart attack and found that depression was associated with a nearly 50% higher stroke risk compared to those without depression. The study highlights the need for greater attention to mental health in research and practice.
Research from the University of Minnesota found that lower left atrial function was associated with higher risk of developing dementia. Atrial myopathy, characterized by abnormal left atrial function and size, was identified as an independent risk factor for dementia.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm that can measure coronary plaque buildup in five seconds, predicting heart attack risk within five years. The tool was trained on images from 921 people and matched results with invasive tests considered highly accurate.
A new study suggests that a high-salt diet can lead to the hyperactivity of brain cells, resulting in increased constriction of blood vessels and worsening of cardiometabolic diseases. The research also found that excessive salt consumption can trigger an unusual response in which neurons become more active despite reduced blood flow.
Researchers at CNIC discover that bone marrow activation is an early event in the development of atherosclerosis, leading to inflammation and plaque formation. The study identifies metabolic syndrome as a key trigger for this process.
A comprehensive literature review found that consuming plant-based alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) rich in walnuts and flaxseeds can lower cardiovascular disease risk by 10% and fatal coronary heart disease risk by 20%. ALA may also benefit heart health when combined with other omega-3s.
Experts provide a concise review of the experience of lay people who have performed CPR, assessing their motivations and psychological impact. The statement suggests understanding these perspectives is critical to improve training, motivation, and experience of lay responders, potentially raising the rate of bystander CPR.
Most people born with heart defects now survive past childhood, requiring seamless transition to adult-oriented healthcare. The American Heart Association updates guidelines for managing congenital heart disease in adolescents and young adults, highlighting the importance of involving individuals and families in research.
New research suggests that routine mammograms can provide key insights into a woman's risk of cardiovascular disease. The study found that detection of breast arterial calcifications on mammograms was associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke in postmenopausal women.
Researchers at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University discover a molecular pathway driving maladaptive processes in heart failure, revealing the importance of GRK5's catalytic activity and nuclear presence. The study opens doors to new therapeutic strategies for treating this devastating condition.
Researchers at the University of Ottawa developed a spray-on technology using customized nanogold and peptides that can restore heart function and electrical conductivity in damaged hearts. The therapy showed promising results in lab mice, with no off-target organ infiltration by tiny gold particles.
A new study found that nearly half of over-35s lack confidence in recognizing cardiac symptoms during strenuous exercise. The survey of 153 Masters football players aged ≥35 years highlights the importance of education and knowledge in mitigating serious cardiac risk.
A new study found that consuming a balanced diet with proteins from various different sources may help prevent the development of high blood pressure. The analysis involved nearly 12,200 adults in China and found an association between protein variety score and reduced risk of new-onset hypertension.
The International Lipid Expert Panel recommends a step-by-step approach to diagnosing and managing muscle symptoms caused by statins. The 'nocebo/drucebo' effect, where patients experience side effects due to expectation, affects up to 70% of diagnosed statin intolerance cases.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that a medium-chain fatty acid called octanoic acid can reduce further injury and improve heart function after a heart attack. This discovery could lead to the development of a new therapy to treat heart attacks, targeting the interplay between energy metabolism and epigenetics.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet studied long-term outcomes of bioprosthetic aortic valves implanted between 2003 and 2018. They found significant differences in performance depending on valve model, with Perimount having the lowest risk of replacement and mortality among patients