A large study involving over 9 million adults from South Korea and the US found that 99% of heart attacks and strokes are linked to four modifiable risk factors: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and tobacco use, emphasizing the importance of managing these risks to prevent serious cardiovascular events.
Researchers are nearing the completion of clinical trials for five experimental drugs aimed at lowering lipoprotein(a), a genetic particle linked to artery clogging and heart disease, with results expected in 2026. These drugs could significantly impact the treatment of a condition affecting about 20% of the global population, though cost and public awareness remain challenges.
A study links frequent consumption of takeout food to increased systemic inflammation and risk factors for heart disease, highlighting the importance of healthier eating habits and home-cooked meals to reduce cardiovascular risks.
A review by the American Heart Association highlights the strong link between gum disease and increased risk of heart disease, emphasizing that maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce inflammation and potentially lower the risk of cardiovascular problems. The evidence suggests that bacteria from damaged gums may enter the bloodstream, contributing to arterial clogging, and that treating periodontal disease can improve markers associated with heart disease. The researchers call for further studies to explore whether periodontal treatment can directly reduce cardiovascular risk, underscoring the importance of oral health for overall well-being.
Depression and anxiety increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure through stress-related brain activity, nervous system dysregulation, and inflammation, with combined conditions posing even higher risks; stress-reduction therapies may help mitigate this link.
The article emphasizes the strong link between influenza and cardiovascular disease, highlighting that flu infection significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It advocates for increased flu vaccination, especially among high-risk groups, as a proven method to reduce cardiovascular events and mortality, urging a shift in public health messaging to recognize influenza as a critical factor in heart health.
New research indicates that current screening tools like the ASCVD and PREVENT scores may miss nearly half of heart attack cases, especially in individuals classified as low or borderline risk, highlighting the need for improved, personalized risk assessment methods to better prevent heart attacks.
A cardiologist emphasizes that 30-60 minutes of daily walking can significantly improve heart health, reduce stress, stabilize blood sugar, and boost mood, making it a simple yet powerful way to prevent cardiovascular disease.
A pilot study demonstrates that a single gene-editing treatment targeting the ANGPTL3 gene can permanently reduce 'bad' cholesterol and triglycerides, potentially replacing lifelong medication for high cholesterol if further trials are successful.
A meta-analysis of 155 studies links common viruses like influenza, COVID-19, hepatitis C, and shingles to a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, both in the short and long term, highlighting the importance of vaccination and preventive measures.
A review of 155 studies shows that acute viral infections like influenza and COVID-19 significantly increase the short-term risk of heart attack and stroke, while chronic infections such as HIV, hepatitis C, and shingles elevate long-term cardiovascular risk. Vaccination and preventive measures may help reduce these risks, especially in vulnerable populations.
A large international study found that exposure to bright light at night significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases in adults over 50, independent of other risk factors, suggesting that reducing night-time light exposure could be a beneficial preventive strategy.
New research shows that semaglutide, used in Ozempic and Wegovy, can protect against heart disease independently of weight loss, suggesting its benefits extend beyond just reducing body weight, potentially influencing future treatment guidelines for cardiovascular health.
A study found that older women who take at least 4,000 steps one or two days a week have significantly lower risks of death and cardiovascular disease, with greater benefits up to a certain point, emphasizing the importance of total step volume over frequency.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology warns that skipping breakfast significantly increases the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other health issues, emphasizing the importance of eating breakfast for long-term health benefits.