Automated external defibrillators, which save lives if used after a heart attack, cannot be found nearby a victim more than 75% of the time, according to a new study. The authors of the study underline the speed with which the device must be used to restart the rhythm of the heart, and how the devices… [Continue Reading]
Discrepancies Between Recommended Care of Cardiovascular Disease and Clinical Reality
May 11, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Despite published guidelines for managing patients with heart disease, the rates of patients continuing behaviors that increase health risks has not improved, according to a new report. Despite clear recommendations for patients to stop smoking, control high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, for example, this is not happening. The findings suggest there is a gap… [Continue Reading]
Telemonitoring Program Helps Reduce High Blood Pressure
May 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Additional monitoring of patients by pharmacists over the phone and internet improves the management of high blood pressure, a new study suggests. The trial program had patients measure and enter their blood pressure readings online, and discuss the results with a pharmacist. Participants in the program were significantly more likely to have their high blood… [Continue Reading]
Researchers Succeed in Genetically Reprogramming Deadly Scar Tissue in the Heart
April 26, 2012 By Leave a Comment
After a heart attack, scar tissue can form, which significantly increases the risk of heart failure and death. Determining how to clear this tissue is a key area of research. Scientists have now found a tool to genetically reprogram scar tissue into muscle cells. This approach could one day be used to repair heart damage… [Continue Reading]
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Improve Arterial Health in Smokers
April 23, 2012 By Leave a Comment
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, could help reduce the damage to the arteries caused by smoking. Researchers treated smoking patients with supplements of the compound, and found improved arterial function. Omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce the physical harm caused by smoking, according to a new study presented today… [Continue Reading]
Harmful Blood Pressure Medication Still Being Prescribed
April 16, 2012 By Leave a Comment
While studies have shown that the blood pressure medication nifedipine significantly increases the risk of death, it is still being prescribed to patients, according to a recent study. The most at risk from the drug are the eldery, for whom side effects can be much more severe. Despite the fact that nifedipine increases the risk… [Continue Reading]
High Fat Diet Linked to Blood Vessel Damage and Hypertension
April 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment
A high fat diet can be the cause of many health conditions, including damaged blood vessels, which may lead to hypertension. A new study examining a mouse model of cardiovascular function has found that after six weeks of a fatty diet, mice have significantly altered blood vessel structure. High fat diets cause damage to blood… [Continue Reading]
Untreated Depression Common After Stroke
April 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Depression that goes unrecognized and untreated by health care providers is a significant problem after stroke, a new study reports. Over 5 million people are living with the effects of a stroke, and the findings suggest that physicians should increase screening for mental well-being in their patients. People who have experienced a stroke or transient… [Continue Reading]
Protein Helps Detoxify Blood, Protecting Vessels
March 12, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in many nations, and new research has revealed a protein that helps protect blood vessels from the condition. The protein has a detoxifying effect, and plays a role in clearing the liver of harmful substances, as well as the circulatory system. Researchers from Queen Mary, University of… [Continue Reading]
Women More Likely to Survive Chronic Heart Failure than Men
March 8, 2012 By Leave a Comment
In a large re-analysis of published studies, scientists have shown that women are more likely to survive chronic heart failure than men. In addition, they are less likely to be prescribed medication for the condition. The work highlights differences in heart function between the sexes, and suggests women may have protective factors. Women with chronic… [Continue Reading]