MedWorm: Heart Disease

A Super Subspecialist: Q&A with Donald Glower, MD

DukeHealth.org: Duke Health Features — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:12:25 +0100

Duke cardiothoracic surgeon Donald Glower, MD, and colleagues help patients look forward to healthier lives. Talk about your unique specialty. I am what you would call a super-subspecialist because of what I do with heart valves. My work focuses upon minimally invasive valve surgery, which didn't even exist 20 years ago. It’s a very narrow niche -- not many people do this. Minimally invasive valve surgery simply minimizes the cuts and allows us to get into the body and disturb a lot less tissue than with other types of procedures, so the recovery is typically much quicker and less painful. You've been a surgeon for 30 years. You must have learned a lot about the concerns of a patient facing heart surgery. Yes, and that's why I think it's important to have a lot of interaction with patien...

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Calculate Your Heart Disease Risk

WDSU.com - Health — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:40:37 +0100

Are you at risk for heart disease? Use this calculator to find out. (Source: WDSU.com - Health)

Health News of the Day

Clinical Cases and Images — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:01:00 +0100

is a daily summary made from the selected links I post on Twitter. It is in bullet-point format with links to the original sources which include 350 RSS feeds that produce about 2,500 items per day: Spending on health care in US is 17.3% of GDP, up from 16.2% in 2008 - largest percentage increase in 5 decades http://goo.gl/IZE4 People who drank 2 or more soft drinks a week had an 87% increased risk of pancreatic cancer http://goo.gl/DcXd Thirdhand Smoke (tobacco smoke residue) Creates Indoor Cancer Risk. Nicotine reacts with indoor air pollutant to form carcinogenic compounds called tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) http://bit.ly/cRpb4r Mediterranean diet may help prevent dementia - CNN http://bit.ly/a9lGLb Latrepirdine (Dimebon) - oral medication developed for Alzheimer's - may ...

Research Warns Of Risks Of Low Potassium In Heart Failure Patients With CKD

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0100

New research from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) says low potassium levels produce an increased risk of death or hospitalization in patients with heart failure and chronic kidney disease (CKD). In findings reported in January in Circulation: Heart Failure, a journal of the American Heart Association, the researchers say that even a mild decrease in serum potassium level increased the risk of death in this patient group. "Hypokalemia, or low potassium, is common in heart-failure patients and is associated with poor outcomes, as is chronic kidney disease," said C... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Research Warns Of Risks Of Low Potassium In Heart Failure Patients With CKD

Urology / Nephrology News From Medical News Today — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0100

Crestor Wins Approval as a Drug to Prevent Heart Disease

NYT > Health — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 05:04:46 +0100

The Food and Drug Administration cleared the way for the cholesterol treatment to be used by millions of people who are not normally prescribed such drugs. (Source: NYT > Health)

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Why Is Being Obese So Bad For You?

The Irish Times - Health — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:39:20 +0100

THAT’S THE WHY:YOU CAN’T have missed the message that being obese is not good for your health. Not only can it put pressure on your joints and make it harder to move around, but too much fat, especially in the belly, is linked with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer. (Source: The Irish Times - Health)

Extra funds for GPs are helping save lives, claim Scots doctors

Scotsman.com News - Health — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

PATIENTS with serious conditions such as diabetes and heart disease are getting better care thanks to a system to reward GP practices, doctors claim. (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health)

ICD Therapy in Children and Young Adults: Low Incidence of Inappropriate Shock Delivery

Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions:In children and young adults receiving ICD therapy, the combination of strategies to prevent ventricular arrhythmias using specific drug therapy, ablation procedures, and individual programming with improved devices and leads causes a low incidence of inappropriate shock delivery. (PACE 2010; 1[ndash]8) (Source: Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology : PACE)

Significance and outcome of left heart hypoplasia in fetal congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The objective of this study was to investigate whether small left heart dimensions prenatally normalize after birth in patients with CDH, or whether prenatal indices of left heart size and flow predict postnatal outcome.Clinical and echocardiographic data were reviewed for patients diagnosed with left-sided CDH prenatally. Cardiac dimensions and flows were compared with normative data. Among liveborn patients, pre- and postnatal Z-scores of left heart structures were compared, and associations between prenatal indices and outcome were assessed.Of 125 patients diagnosed prenatally with CDH, 111 had a left-sided defect. Of these, 85 were liveborn, including 20 with congenital heart disease. Gestational age-adjusted dimensions of fetal left heart structures, including aortic valve diameter, m...

FDA Widens Crestor Approval

WSJ.com: Health — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 23:27:18 +0100

The Food and Drug Administration Monday approved wider use of Crestor, AstraZeneca PLC's cholesterol-lowering drug, allowing the company to market the drug to patients who don't have signs of heart disease. (Source: WSJ.com: Health)

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Assessment of Myocardial Viability at Dobutamine Echocardiography by Deformation Analysis Using Tissue Velocity and Speckle-Tracking

Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Imaging — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:01:04 +0100

Conclusions Combination of TVI or STE methods with DbE can predict viability, with TVI strain and SR at LDD being the most accurate. TVI measures can predict viability in both anterior and posterior circulations, but STE measurements predict viability only in the anterior circulation. (Source: Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Imaging)

Repeatedly telling patients of their coronary disease risk improves outcomes

theHeart.org — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 22:00:56 +0100

Providing patients with their global coronary heart disease risk appears to improve the accuracy of their risk perception, and repeating risk information improves outcomes slightly, according to a... For complete story visit theheart.org. (Source: theHeart.org)

The Effect of Giving Global Coronary Risk Information to Adults: A Systematic Review [Review Article]

Archives of Internal Medicine — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:50:53 +0100

Conclusions Global CHD risk information seems to improve the accuracy of risk perception and may increase intent to initiate CHD prevention among individuals at moderate to high risk. The effect of global risk presentation on more distal outcomes is less clear and seems to be related to the intensity of accompanying interventions. (Source: Archives of Internal Medicine)

Being religious may not make you healthier after all

Reuters: Health — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:29:55 +0100

A number of studies over the past two decades have shown that religious people tend to be healthier. But a new study suggests that when it comes to heart disease and clogged arteries, attending religious services or having spiritual experiences may not protect against heart attacks and strokes. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Public Events to Celebrate American Heart Month - Tampa Bay

Disabled World — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:08:48 +0100

BayCare Health System, the Tampa Bay area's leading health care provider, recognizes the importance of American Heart Month and is launching a series of community programs to raise awareness for heart disease... (Source: Disabled World)

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Genetics behind ageing probed

NHS News Feed — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:01:00 +0100

Conclusion This study increases the information we have about the biology of ageing. In particular, it shows an association between a gene variation and short telomeres (which have a known association with ageing). The study was well conducted and the results are reliable. The researchers have used recognised methods in this field of research and checked their initial findings in several different separate groups of people to confirm the validity of their early associations. Their ultimate conclusion is also based on the variants that were significant across all of the cohorts analysed. It is important to remember that while the researchers have found clear associations for a particular gene, many other genes are likely to play a combined role in ageing. In fact, the study found that the...

Parental age at childbirth and age of menarche in the offspring

Human Reproduction — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:53:06 +0100

CONCLUSIONS We found no significant association between parental age and AOM, but the small sample of advance aged parents (over 30 years) limits the information we have. Future studies with a larger sample or a sample with over-representation of older parents will be of value. (Source: Human Reproduction)

Canada launches fight against chronic disease

Healthcare IT News — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:05:06 +0100

More than 30 organizations from across Canada are forming partnerships in a $15.5 million series of initiatives aimed at preventing chronic disease – a challenge that the United States is also tackling. Electronic health records play a critical role in Canada's plan. (Source: Healthcare IT News)

Allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation for type 1 diabetes mellitus

Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Specialist Library - Pancreas — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:25:41 +0100

Aims: Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a condition that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin (a substance that helps control sugar balance in the body). It is usually treatable with insulin injections, but people with type 1 diabetes mellitus have an increased risk of other health problems, such heart disease. Allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation involves the removal of cells called islet cells, which are responsible for the production of insulin, from human donors. These cells are inserted into the patient's liver to restart insulin production within the body. However, patients who have this procedure will need to take medications to help their bodies' immune system to accept the cells. Intended audience: Healthcare professionals. Publication history information: Pu...

Blood pressure: What you can do for yourself

L.A. Times - Health — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

There are two kinds of people in the United States -- ones who have high blood pressure now and ones who have a very good chance of getting it someday. That's bad news, because high blood pressure, technically known as hypertension, raises the risk for stroke, heart disease, heart failure, kidney disease and eye damage, including blindness. (Source: L.A. Times - Health)

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Enzyme may protect from inflammation

Health News - UPI.com — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 05:25:46 +0100

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers say an enzyme could protect obese people against diabetes and heart disease. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Top 5 Myths That Put Women at Risk - Busted

KoolDocs Health Advice and Information — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

February happens to be heart health month. Around 450,000 women suffer heart attacks every year. As a matter of fact, cardiovascular disease is the top killer in the United States. So read on to learn about heart myths and how to prevent yourself from being a victim of heart disease. (Source: KoolDocs Health Advice and Information)

Coronary Risk Information May Benefit High Risk Patients

Modern Medicine — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Adults at moderate to high risk of coronary heart disease may be more likely to seek treatment if they are given a quantitative estimate of their risk odds in the form of coronary heart disease risk information, but the population-wide effect of disseminating such information remains unclear, according to a review published in the Feb. 8 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Spatial variability of climate effects on ischemic heart disease hospitalization rates for the period 1989-2006 in Quebec, Canada

International Journal of Health Geographics — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This study highlights the differential effects of cold and hot periods on IHD in Quebec health regions depending on age, sex, and other factors such as smoking, behaviour and deprivation levels. (Source: International Journal of Health Geographics)

First DNA link to human ageing found

Guardian Unlimited Science — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 19:55:34 +0100

Discovery of gene sequence could aid drug design for age-related illnessesScientists have isolated a gene sequence that appears to determine how fast our bodies age, the first time a link between DNA and human lifespan has been found.The discovery could have a profound impact on public health and raises the best hope yet for drugs that prevent the biological wear and tear behind common age-related conditions such as heart disease and certain cancers.The work is expected to pave the way for screening programmes to spot people who are likely to age fast and be more susceptible to heart problems and other conditions early in life. People who test positive for the gene variant in their 20s could be put on cholesterol-lowering statin drugs and encouraged to exercise, eat healthily and avoid smo...

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Cholesterol's link to heart disease gets clearer and more complicated

ScienceDaily Headlines — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 16:02:40 +0100

By considering molecular-level events on a broader scale, researchers now have a clearer, if more complicated, picture of how one class of immune cells goes wrong when loaded with cholesterol. The findings show that, when it comes to the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease, it's not about any one bad actor -- it's about a network gone awry. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Bioheart Launches First US FDA Approved Clinical Trial That Tests Gene-Modified Stem Cell Therapy In Patients With Congestive Heart Failure

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Bioheart, Inc., (OTCBB:BHRT) announced that the company has commenced work on its REGEN trial, a Phase I Clinical Trial to test genetically modified MyoCell® in patients suffering from Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). Bioheart's MyoCell® is a regenerative cell therapy that uses myoblasts, or muscle stem cells,that are grown from a patient's own muscle. MyoCell® has been tested successfully on patients in four clinical trials... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Bioheart Launches First US FDA Approved Clinical Trial That Tests Gene-Modified Stem Cell Therapy In Patients With Congestive Heart Failure

Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Bioheart, Inc., (OTCBB:BHRT) announced that the company has commenced work on its REGEN trial, a Phase I Clinical Trial to test genetically modified MyoCell® in patients suffering from Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). Bioheart's MyoCell® is a regenerative cell therapy that uses myoblasts, or muscle stem cells,that are grown from a patient's own muscle... (Source: Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today)

Eat for a Healthy Heart

FDA Consumer Updates — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:39:00 +0100

Eating healthily can help reduce your risk for the number one killer in the United States—heart disease. (Source: FDA Consumer Updates)

Daytime napping and mortality, with a special reference to cardiovascular disease: the JACC study

International Journal of Epidemiology — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:02:43 +0100

Conclusions Daytime napping is associated with elevated risk of CVD mortality as well as non-cardiovascular/non-cancer and external deaths. Daytime napping may elevate risk of CVD death through some biological effects but, to a larger extent, some comorbid disorders causing weight loss or associated with non-regular employment and low education level could explain this association. (Source: International Journal of Epidemiology)

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Long-term association of routine blood count (Coulter) variables on fatal coronary heart disease: 30-year results from the first prospective Northwick Park Heart Study (NPHS-I)

International Journal of Epidemiology — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:02:43 +0100

Conclusion PCV was found to predict CHD mortality even after controlling for classical risk factors. This may give some insight into possible mechanisms, such as an influence on thrombin production. (Source: International Journal of Epidemiology)

$5.6 Million Contract For Heart Assist Device For Infants And Toddlers

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and their collaborators have been awarded a $5.6 million federal contract to pursue the continued development of an implanted ventricular assist heart pump for infants and small children with congenital or acquired heart disease. The project aims to provide much-needed access to the sophisticated technologies that have saved the lives of older heart failure patients. Harvey Borovetz, Ph.D... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Overeating Triggers Molecular 'Firing Squad' In Mice, Destroys Metabolism

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Overeating in mice triggers a molecule once considered to be only involved in detecting and fighting viruses to also destroy normal metabolism, leading to insulin resistance and setting the stage for diabetes. The new study, led by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH), specifically links together the immune system and metabolism, a pairing increasingly suspected in diseases that include - in addition to diabetes - heart disease, fatty liver, cancer, and stroke... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

$5.6 Million Contract For Heart Assist Device For Infants And Toddlers

Medical Devices News From Medical News Today — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Many women unaware of heart disease signs

Health News - UPI.com — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 22:46:38 +0100

DALLAS, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- More than 430,000 U.S. women die each year of heart disease, but many woman are unfamiliar with signs, U.S. researchers say. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

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Coronary heart disease risk factors and regional deprivation in England: does age matter?

Age and Ageing — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 21:47:48 +0100

(Source: Age and Ageing)

New Research Uncovers Molecular "Firing Squad" Through Which Overeating Destroys Normal Metabolism And Sets Stage For Diabetes

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 17:00:00 +0100

Atorvastatin cuts CHD risk in stroke patients

MedWire News - Stroke — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:49:46 +0100

Further results from the SPARCL trial show that stroke patients given atorvastatin have a reduced risk for coronary heart disease events, as well as recurrent stroke. (Source: MedWire News - Stroke)

Antidepressants and Heart Disease: How Strong Is the Link? [Clinical & Research News]

Psychiatr News — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:01:05 +0100

(Source: Psychiatr News)

Atorvastatin cuts CHD risk in stroke patients

MedWire News - Cardiology — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:56:22 +0100

Further results from the SPARCL trial show that stroke patients given atorvastatin have a reduced risk for coronary heart disease events, as well as recurrent stroke. (Source: MedWire News - Cardiology)

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Comparison of Prognostic Value of Tissue Doppler Imaging in Carcinoid Heart Disease Versus the Value in Patients With the Carcinoid Syndrome but Without Carcinoid Heart Disease

The American Journal of Cardiology — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:55:11 +0100

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) in carcinoid heart disease (CHD). We prospectively enrolled 56 consecutive patients with proved digestive endocrine tumor and carcinoid syndrome. All patients underwent serial conventional, contrast, and TDI echocardiographic studies. The end point was all-cause mortality. Mean follow-up was 34 ± 21 months. At the end of follow-up, 30 patients (54%) presented right CHD and 13 patients (23%) left CHD. A progression of CHD was documented in 23 patients (41%). Twenty-two patients (39%) died during follow-up. According to mortality receiver operating characteristic curves, ratio of early transmitral flow velocity to early diastolic mitral annulus velocity (E/e′ ratio) associated with an optimal sensit...

Sexuality and Reproductive Health in Women With Congenital Heart Disease

The American Journal of Cardiology — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:55:11 +0100

The different biopsychosocial periods in a woman's life are all interactively associated with the cardiovascular system. The present study was designed to address questions related to sexuality and reproductive health in a large cohort of women with congenital heart disease. Overall, 536 women (median age 29 years, range 18 to 75) completed a questionnaire during their visit at 2 tertiary care centers for congenital heart disease. Patients were categorized according to their functional class and according to the degree of severity of the underlying heart defect. The median age at menarche was significantly delayed in patients with functional class III-IV and in women with complex or cyanotic anomalies. More than 1/4 of the women (29%) had at least once sought medical advice for menstrual d...

Anatomic, Imaging, and Clinical Characteristics of Double-Inlet, Double-Outlet Right Ventricle

The American Journal of Cardiology — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:55:11 +0100

In conclusion, DI-DORV is a distinct type of functional single ventricle congenital heart disease with variable atrioventricular valve morphology and myocardial architecture. Accurate diagnosis using noninvasive imaging techniques is of paramount importance for optimal management. (Source: The American Journal of Cardiology)

New Blood Test For Coronary Artery Disease Now Available At Vanderbilt Heart And Vascular Institute

Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0100

New Blood Test For Coronary Artery Disease Now Available At Vanderbilt Heart And Vascular Institute

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0100

Just in time for American Heart Month, Vanderbilt Heart and Vascular Institute is offering a new blood test that can predict if a patient is at high risk for heart disease. Vanderbilt is among the first institutions in the country, and the only one in Tennessee, to offer this test. "We now have a novel way to check for the presence of significant coronary artery disease by looking at genes that are associated with heart disease," said John McPherson, M.D., director of the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit at Vanderbilt University Medical Center... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Health care system too broke to fix (comic)

NaturalNews.com — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Each year, it seems the U.S. Congress throws another trillion dollars at some failing industry, desperately trying to bail it out and prevent the crooks running it from facing the consequences of their own bad decisions. In 2008, the bailout went to Wall Street and the rich investment bankers who lost trillions of dollars in ill-fated investment schemes (which were deemed "too big to fail" so the government stepped in and bailed them out with your future tax dollars.) Now in 2010, a bailout of similar size is about to be handed to the sick-care industry. Except it's not a one-time bailout: It's an ongoing financial drain on the U.S. economy (and the U.S. citizens) mandated under the health care reform bill that passed in both houses of Congress and could soon become law.The c...

Healthy chocolate — Dream or reality?

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 06:00:00 +0100

Healthy chocolate? Yes! In moderation, chocolate — especially dark chocolate — may help prevent heart disease. (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)

Healthy chocolate — Dream or reality?

MayoClinic.com - Ask a Specialist — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 06:00:00 +0100

Healthy chocolate? Yes! In moderation, chocolate — especially dark chocolate — may help prevent heart disease. (Source: MayoClinic.com - Ask a Specialist)

Coronary Heart Disease From a Life-Course Approach: Findings From the Health and Retirement Study, 1998-2004

Journal of Aging and Health — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:27:18 +0100

Discussion: Policies and programs aimed at improving the conditions of poor children and their families may effectively reduce the prevalence of CHD in later life. (Source: Journal of Aging and Health)

Quitting smoking reduces heart disease risk despite weight gain

MedWire News - Lipidology — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Stopping smoking can lead to weight gain and a worsening in some cardiovascular risk factors, Japanese research suggests, but it still markedly reduces an individual’s estimated risk of coronary heart disease. (Source: MedWire News - Lipidology)

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Physical Inactivity, Not Just Lack of Exercise, Harms Health

Modern Medicine — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Sedentary behavior and a lack of whole-body movement are independent predictors of increased mortality and increased incidence of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer, regardless of level of physical exercise, according to an article published online Feb. 4 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. (Source: Modern Medicine)

When we talk about Duchenne, we tend to focus on our sons. But there is a journey that women go on as mothers, daughters, sisters and as carriers. Read PPMD President Pat Furlong’s latest blog, about how Duchenne affects women, not just emotionally but physically.patfurlongsblog.blogspot.com

Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

It was a long time ago that I sat in the exam room and received the diagnosis. My boys had Duchenne. The diagnosis was followed by a series of questions about my family history, the doctor assuming that somewhere along the line, there was another boy long ago. In my case, there was no history. None. I asked every living member of my mother’s family what they knew, if there was someone who had an unnamed ‘problem’, someone who was weak, or a child who died young from an unnamed illness. One of my cousins talked about my "crazy Uncle Harry” who fell off the roof, but it hardly fit the picture I was looking for. I had a brother Jack, who died young, at the age of 42. A heart attack after jogging. He was my closest friend and I wondered if he might have had a mild form of Duchenne – ...

Surveillance of certain health behaviors and conditions among States and selected local areas --- behavioral risk factor surveillance system, United States, 2007.

MMWR Surveill Summ — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This report presents results for 2007 for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, 184 metropolitan and micropolitan statistical areas (MMSAs), and 298 counties. Results: In 2007, prevalence estimates of risk behaviors, chronic conditions, and the use of preventive services varied substantially by state and territory, MMSA, and county. The following is a summary of results listed by BRFSS question topic. Each set of proportions refers to the range of estimated prevalence for the disease, condition, or behavior, as reported by the survey subject. Adults who reported fair or poor health: 11% to 32% for states and territories and 6% to 31% for MMSAs and counties. Adults with health-care coverage: 71% to 94% for states and territories ...

C-reactive Protein: Not a Routine Test for Heart Disease

Mayo Clinic Health Information — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 21:58:05 +0100

For women concerned about heart disease, routine testing of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is controversial, says Thomas Behrenbeck, M.D., Ph.D., a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, in an interview in the February issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. (Source: Mayo Clinic Health Information)

Healing Hearts Through Cardiac Rehab

UK College of Medicine News — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 21:51:36 +0100

February is American Heart Month. It also marks one year of operation for the University of Kentucky Gill Heart Institute Cardiac Rehabilitation Program. Battling to change health habits among Kentuckians a population with some of the highest heart disease rates in the world the program is helping high-risk patients make radical, lasting changes to improve their heart health. People have a notion of heart disease as something theyre born with, but for most people that isnt true. Genetics play a role, but lifestyle accounts for the majority of heart disease risk, says Dr. Alison Bailey, Gill Heart Institute cardiologist and director of the cardiac rehab program. (Source: UK College of Medicine News)

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Teen hearts may be breaking down

Health News - UPI.com — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:38:38 +0100

ATLANTA, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- A U.S. dietitian urges teens to make changes now to avoid heart disease later. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Culture and Comorbidity in East and West Berliners

Qualitative Health Research — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:20:37 +0100

Following the collapse of socialism, fluctuations in cardiac mortality rates in East Germany and a West-to-East cardiac health gradient became topics of interest. Researchers suggested possible causes for these phenomena, including stress from postsocialism. I proposed that a cultural investigation of heart disease comorbid with depression could inform our understanding of the potential health effects of the postsocialist transition. I conducted ethnographic and survey research. In the study described here, I administered a depression scale (CES-D) and an ethnographically derived measure of cultural stress (Good Life Survey) to over 200 East and West Berliners with cardiovascular disease. Comparison of the groups’ depression means revealed no difference. However, correlation of the G...

Long-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution and mortality in Shizuoka, Japan

Occupational and Environmental Medicine — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:47:12 +0100

Conclusion Long-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution, indexed by nitrogen dioxide concentration, increases the risk of cardiopulmonary mortality, even in a population with a relatively low body mass index and increases the risk of lung cancer mortality in non-smokers. (Source: Occupational and Environmental Medicine)

Study fails to link saturated fat, heart disease

Reuters: Health — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:19:11 +0100

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - The saturated fat found mainly in meat and dairy products has a bad reputation, but a new analysis of published studies finds no clear link between people's intake of saturated fat and their risk of developing heart disease. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Study Fails to Link Saturated Fat, Heart Disease

MedlinePlus Health News — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:19:11 +0100

The saturated fat found mainly in meat and dairy products has a bad reputation, but a new analysis of published studies finds no clear link between people's intake of saturated fat and their risk of developing heart disease. Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Topics: Dietary Fats, Heart Diseases, Stroke (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

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Hypoplastic left heart syndrome

Heart — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:44:54 +0100

(Source: Heart)

Relationship between plasma inflammatory markers and plaque fibrous cap thickness determined by intravascular optical coherence tomography

Heart — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:44:53 +0100

Conclusion There is an inverse linear correlation between fibrous cap thickness and plasma levels of inflammatory markers. The plasma hs-CRP concentration is the strongest independent predictor of TCFA. (Source: Heart)

Assessment of parental decision-making in neonatal cardiac research: a pilot study

Journal of Medical Ethics — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:41:36 +0100

Conclusions The MacCAT-CR can be used to assess parental permission for neonatal research participation. Despite the stress of a critically ill neonate requiring surgery, parents were able to understand study-specific information and make informed decisions to permit their neonate's participation. (Source: Journal of Medical Ethics)

Treatment of Heart Failure With Normal Ejection Fraction: An Inconvenient Truth!

Journal of the American College of Cardiology — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:51:09 +0100

Despite use of similar drugs, outcomes of recent heart failure (HF) trials were frequently neutral in heart failure with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (HFNEF) and positive in heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFREF). The neutral outcomes of HFNEF trials were often attributed to deficient HFNEF patient recruitment with inclusion of many HFREF or noncardiac patients. Patient recruitment criteria of 21 HFNEF trials were therefore reviewed in reference to diagnostic guidelines for HFNEF. In the 4 published sets of guidelines, a definite diagnosis of HFNEF required the simultaneous and obligatory presence of signs and/or symptoms of HF and evidence of normal systolic left ventricular (LV) function and of diastolic LV dysfunction. In 3 of 4 sets of guidel...

Target Identified That May Reduce Complications Of Obesity

Biology / Biochemistry News From Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

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Target Identified That May Reduce Complications Of Obesity

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Although obesity is a risk factor for diabetes and coronary heart disease worldwide, only some obese individuals go on to develop these metabolic complications, while others are relatively protected. Defining these protective factors could help scientists prevent disease in the wider population. To this end, a research team at the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, led by Suneil Koliwad, MD, PhD, recently added new details that link obesity to diabetes and heart disease... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Three Year Partnership Between Go Red For Women And Dona Bertarelli's Ladycat Enables Campaign To Grow By 56%

Stroke / Neuroprotection News From Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Three Year Partnership Between Go Red For Women And Dona Bertarelli's Ladycat Enables Campaign To Grow By 56%

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

The three year partnership between Dona Bertarelli, her Decision 35 catamaran Ladycat (SUI10) and Go Red for Women, the international campaign of the World Heart Federation to raise public awareness of heart disease and stroke in women, ended successfully in December 2009. "Thanks to Dona Bertarelli's support, the campaign has taken off in 47 countries, from 30 when the partnership began, increasing awareness among women of the need to look after their heart health and creating real momentum... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

New Procedure Cuts Arrhythmia, Recovery Time

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0100

A surgeon and an electrophysiologist in the Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center last week worked together to perform a novel, minimally-invasive procedure to treat a common but dangerous arrhythmia in a 61-year-old lawyer from east Texas who has suffered from the condition for months. By combining their talents, the physicians could perform the procedure through two small incisions, rather than six, which is common for minimally-invasive approaches... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

King Launches PainBalance®: Educational Initiative To Help Reduce The Burden Of Pain

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0100

King Pharmaceuticals®, Inc. launched PainBalance®, a new educational initiative which provides quality information, practical tools, and essential resources to healthcare professionals and others, helping them provide optimal, appropriate care for all patients with pain. An estimated 50 million Americans live with chronic pain,1 more than the number of people with diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined.2-5 Chronic pain is a serious, undertreated public health problem, and uncontrolled pain costs an estimated $100 billion in the U.S. each year... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Research Finds That Fat Behaves Differently In Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Fat tissue in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome produces an inadequate amount of the hormone that regulates how fats and glucose are processed, promoting increased insulin resistance and inflammation, glucose intolerance, and greater risk of diabetes and heart disease, according to a study conducted at the Center for Androgen-Related Research and Discovery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is the most common hormonal disorder of women of childbearing age, affecting approximately 10 percent of women... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Research Finds That Fat Behaves Differently In Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Women's Health / OBGYN News From Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Fat tissue in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome produces an inadequate amount of the hormone that regulates how fats and glucose are processed, promoting increased insulin resistance and inflammation, glucose intolerance, and greater risk of diabetes and heart disease, according to a study conducted at the Center for Androgen-Related Research and Discovery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center... (Source: Women's Health / OBGYN News From Medical News Today)

In Light Of Research About Teens' Heart Disease Risk, Lifestyle Changes Critical

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Pamphlets detailing the warning signs associated with heart disease may soon end up in an unexpected location: your child's pediatrician's office. According to new research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five American teens has at least one risk factor for developing heart disease in adulthood. With heart health front-and-center this month in honor of American Heart Month, most media coverage will focus on at-risk adults. But that's a mistake according to Sarah Wally, a dietitian with the National Association for Margarine Manufacturers... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

In Light Of Research About Teens' Heart Disease Risk, Lifestyle Changes Critical

Cholesterol News From Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Magnesium found to boost learning and memory

NaturalNews.com — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 07:00:00 +0100

We present these findings in protest of the way in which they were acquired.For more information: http://www.cell.com/neuron/fulltext/S0896-6273(09)01044-7 http://www.naturalnews.com/magnesium.html (Source: NaturalNews.com)

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Heart Disease Clue Uncovered

Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 05:00:00 +0100

When it comes to the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease, it's not about any one bad actor -- it's about a whole network gone wrong. (Source: Medical Headlines From Ivanhoe.com)

Pitt-led team gets $5.6 million contract for heart assist device for infants and toddlers

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences) Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and their collaborators have been awarded a $5.6 million federal contract to continue development of an implanted ventricular assist heart pump for infants and small children with congenital or acquired heart disease. The project aims to provide much-needed access to the sophisticated technologies that have saved the lives of older heart failure patients. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Physical Activity Associated With Healthier Aging

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Physical activity appears to be associated with a reduced risk or slower progression of several age-related conditions as well as improvements in overall health in older age, according to a commentary and four articles published in the January 25 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. Exercise has previously been linked to beneficial effects on arthritis, falls and fractures, heart disease, lung disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity, write Jeff Williamson, M.D., M.H.S., and Marco Pahor, M.D., of University of Florida, Gainesville, in a commentary... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Health-related quality of life in diabetes: The associations of complications with EQ-5D scores

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The EQ-5D dimensions and the EQ-5D seem capable of capturing the consequences of diabetes-related complications, and such complications may have substantial impact on several dimensions of health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The strongest determinants of reduced HRQoL in people with diabetes were ischemic heart disease, stroke and neuropathy. (Source: Health and Quality of Life Outcomes)

Achieving Healthy People 2010 targets ‘could halve US CHD deaths’

MedWire News - Cardiology — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Achieving the Healthy People 2010 cardiovascular risk factor targets would have almost halved the number of predicted coronary heart disease deaths in 2010 in the USA, report researchers. (Source: MedWire News - Cardiology)

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Alzheimer's Research Trust report: Dementia 2010

NeLM - News — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: Alzheimer?s Research Trust Area: News The Alzheimer's Research Trust commissioned the Health Economics Research Centre at the University of Oxford to examine the economic cost of dementia to the UK, and the country's investment in research to find new treatments, preventions and cures. The report 'Dementia 2010' is the outcome of this research which noted the following: . Over 820,000 people in the UK are living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. . Dementia costs the UK economy £23 billion per year: more than cancer and heart disease combined. . Dementia research is severely underfunded, receiving 12 times less support than cancer research. The report concluded that "dementia is the greatest medical challenge of our t...

Clinical Profile and Management of Patients With Hypertension and Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease According to BMI.

Obesity — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, in patients with hypertension and chronic ischemic heart disease, as BMI increases, the clinical profile worsens as well as risk factors control rates. PMID: 20134413 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Obesity)

Reducing complications of obesity

Medicineworld.org: New Article Alert — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 20:04:38 +0100

Eventhough obesity is a risk factor for diabetes and coronary heart disease worldwide, only some obese individuals go on to develop these metabolic complications, while others are relatively protected. Defining these protective factors could help researchers prevent disease in the wider population. To this end, a research team at the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, led by Suneil Koliwad, MD, PhD, recently added new details that link obesity to diabetes and heart disease........ (Source: Medicineworld.org: New Article Alert)

Explanatory Models of Health and Disease Among South Asian Immigrants in Chicago

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:58:24 +0100

Abstract To identify concepts of health and disease as part of a study on designing culturally-targeted heart disease prevention messages for South Asians. We conducted qualitative, semi-structured interviews in English, Hindi and Urdu with 75 respondents from a federally qualified health center and at a community center for South Asian immigrants in Chicago, Illinois. Age ranged from 20 to 70 years; 60% were women; 60% held advanced degrees; 70% migrated to the US in the last 10 years; and 60% of the interviews were in Hindi or Urdu. Concepts of health and disease fell into four domains: behavioral, physical, psycho-social and spiritual. Muslim participants consistently evoked spiritual factors such as faith and prayer. Women more frequently included performing ...

Thinking on how to construct the system of Chinese medicine efficacy evaluation for coronary heart disease angina pectoris

Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:46:17 +0100

Abstract The existing efficacy evaluation for coronary heart disease (CHD) angina pectoris does not demonstrate the characteristics and advantages of Chinese medicine (CM), so a new system of efficacy evaluation which can scientifically and systematically reflect the specific features of CM needs to be urgently set up. Based on wide references of efficacy evaluations of CHD angina pectoris from our country and abroad, and considering the general acceptance by academic circles and demonstration of the characteristics of CM, this paper tries to set up a new index system of efficacy evaluation, combining both disease and syndrome differentiation for CHD angina pectoris. This paper also offers some explorations based on the results of clinical trials. The system is composed of...

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Go Red for Women

Disabled World — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:11:18 +0100

Go Red For Women(R) and Jennie Garth Ask Women to Speak Up About Their No. 1 Killer - Women Across the Country to Join the Conversation about Heart Disease at National Casting Call Event... (Source: Disabled World)

More funding needed for dementia research – report

Management in Practice — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:10:47 +0100

Dementia is more costly than cancer and heart disease combined but only receives a fraction of the funding, according to new report (Source: Management in Practice)

New Report and Survey Findings Highlight Why More Women Die From Heart Disease Than Men

NurseZone.com Nursing News — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:01:05 +0100

Feb. 2, 2010 - The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) launched "WINHeart -- Score a WIN for Women," an initiative that raises awareness surrounding gender-based disparities in the diagnosis, treatment and survival of women with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Simultaneously, Women In Innovations (WIN), a group of interventional cardiologists within SCAI, today released a new report and survey that illustrate why cardiovascular disease is under-recognized and under-treated in women despite the near split in prevalence of heart disease between men and women. (Source: NurseZone.com Nursing News)

Dementia costs UK economy £23bn every year - more than cancer and heart disease together

the Mail online | Health — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:14:28 +0100

Yet the brain condition suffered by 822,000 Britons receives a fraction of the funding, according to a new report. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

British dementia costs seen rising, research urged

Reuters: Health — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:42:00 +0100

LONDON (Reuters) - Dementia costs Britain 23 billion pounds ($37 billion) a year, more than cancer and heart disease combined, and the number of sufferers is expected to rise nearly 20 percent to over a million by 2025, experts said Wednesday. (Source: Reuters: Health)

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Even with Heart Disease Awareness on the Rise, Prevention Remains Critically Important for American Women

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:32:56 +0100

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Related MedlinePlus Topic: Heart Disease in Women (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Is Your Lifestyle Harming Your Heart?

WDSU.com - Health — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:28:12 +0100

One American dies of heart disease every 60 seconds. Could you be one of them? Learn how where you live, what you eat and what bad habits can put you at-risk for heart disease. (Source: WDSU.com - Health)

Doctors miss major cause of infertility and obesity: Polycystic ovary syndrome

ScienceDaily Headlines — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Ballooning weight, irregular periods and trouble getting pregnant are red flags for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It's a serious metabolic disorder and one of the major causes of hormonally related infertility -- affecting about 5 million women in the US. But the disorder remains largely undiagnosed and unknown. The complex genetic disease has long-term health risks throughout a woman's lifespan, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease. New research shows men are also affected. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Heart patients using herbal remedies may be at heightened risk of dangerous drug interactions

ScienceDaily Headlines — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

More and more Americans are turning to herbal remedies to help manage chronic conditions or promote general health and wellness. But many of today's popular herbal supplements, including St. John's wort, gingko biloba, garlic and even grapefruit juice can pose serious risks to people who are taking medications for heart disease, according to a review article. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Cholesterol's Link To Heart Disease Gets Clearer - And More Complicated

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

By considering molecular-level events on a broader scale, researchers now have a clearer, if more complicated, picture of how one class of immune cells goes wrong when loaded with cholesterol. The findings reported in the February 3rd issue of Cell Metabolism, a Cell Press publication, show that, when it comes to the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease, it's not about any one bad actor - it's about a network gone awry. The new findings also highlight a pretty remarkable thing, Heinecke says: "Despite 30 years of study, we still don't know how cholesterol causes heart disease... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Cholesterol's Link To Heart Disease Gets Clearer - And More Complicated

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

Fat Behaves Differently In Patients With Polycistic Ovary Syndrome

Endocrinology News From Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Fat tissue in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome produces an inadequate amount of the hormone that regulates how fats and glucose are processed, promoting increased insulin resistance and inflammation, glucose intolerance, and greater risk of diabetes and heart disease, according to a study conducted at the Center for Androgen-Related Research and Discovery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center... (Source: Endocrinology News From Medical News Today)

Is Your Kitchen Heart Friendly?

Nutrition/Agriculture News From Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Is Your Kitchen Heart Friendly?

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Lurking in your kitchen may be a killer. According to Saint Louis University cardiologist Melda Dolan, M.D., the fast, convenient and processed foods that fill American's freezers and pantries are bad news for your heart and waistline, as well as your taste buds. This February, in honor of American Heart Month, Dolan is encouraging the SLU community to give their kitchen a heart-healthy makeover. "Maintaining a heart healthy diet is easier than you might think, but it does require a life-style change," Dolan said... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Fat Behaves Differently In Patients With Polycistic Ovary Syndrome

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

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Funding plea as charity warns of dementia 'crisis'

Nursing Times Breaking News — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:25:00 +0100

Dementia costs the country £23bn a year - more than cancer and heart disease combined - but receives a fraction of the funding, according to a “wake up call” report. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Call to address £23bn cost of dementia

HSJ — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:25:00 +0100

Dementia costs the country £23bn a year - more than cancer and heart disease combined - but receives a fraction of the funding, according to a “wake up call” report. (Source: HSJ)

Britain ignoring its dementia crisis, Oxford study finds

Guardian Unlimited Science — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:09:15 +0100

This report shows that dementia is the greatest medical challenge of the 21st century."If we spend a more proportionate sum on dementia research we could unleash the full potential of our scientists in their race for a cure. Spending millions now really can save us crippling multi-billion pound care bills later."Each dementia patient costs the economy £27,647 each year, researchers found, nearly five times more than a cancer patient and eight times more than someone with from heart disease.The expense is driven mainly by the extent of unpaid care and long-term institutional care – in contrast to cancer and heart disease, where costs are mainly taken care of by the NHS.The report documents a "diagnosis gap", between the expected number of people with dementia and the number of patients w...

A New Key To Fight Rare Childhood Disease

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 10:00:00 +0100

A research team led by biochemist Scott Garman at the University of Massachusetts Amherst has for the first time determined the mechanism of one of the cell's "recycling" enzymes, human alpha-galactosidase or alpha-GAL, as it breaks down substances in the lysosome, the cell's recycling center. The work promises to aid treatment of a rare childhood metabolic disorder, Fabry disease. Patients may survive to adulthood but have compromised kidney function or heart disease, for example, due to lipid buildup in blood vessels, tissues and organs... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Seven Signs That May Warn Of A Rare Heart Condition

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

As Americans look to keep their fitness resolutions and increase their physical activity, Dr. Bing Liem, cardiologist and electrophysiologist at El Camino Hospital in Mountain View, Calif., is hoping to raise awareness of a critical but rare heart condition: congenital malformations of the heart or vascular system, which is to blame for the majority of sudden cardiac deaths in athletes under the age of 40. "It's always heart-wrenching to hear news of a young athlete, at the zenith of fitness, dying suddenly on the sports field," said Dr... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Specialists Available To Discuss Worldwide Epidemic Of Heart Disease Among South Asians

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Growing evidence shows that people of South Asian descent-regardless of where they live now-are at significantly higher risk of heart disease. As we approach American Heart Month, the team of physicians and researchers at the South Asian Heart Center at El Camino Hospital are available to discuss this epidemic, and what strategies are being used successfully to combat it... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Seven Signs That May Warn Of A Rare Heart Condition

Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Specialists Available To Discuss Worldwide Epidemic Of Heart Disease Among South Asians

Cardiovascular / Cardiology News From Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

The 'live to 100' super pill that could eliminate diabetes, Alzheimer's, and heart disease 'to be ready in three years'

the Mail online | Health — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:48:37 +0100

Three genes have been discovered that can lead to a long, healthy life and prevent diseases of ageing that cut it short. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Gladstone scientists identify target that may reduce complications of obesity

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(Gladstone Institutes) A research team at the Gladstone Institute of Cardiovascular Disease led by Dr. Suneil Koliwad, recently added new details that link obesity to diabetes and heart disease. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Comorbidities associated with psoriasis: An experience from the Middle East

The Journal of Dermatology — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Recent studies suggest that psoriasis patients have higher rates of comorbidities. We sought to determine the prevalence of comorbidities and co-medications in our psoriasis patients. We conducted case-control study in 1835 patients with psoriasis vulgaris and age- and gender-matched cohort without psoriasis. Patients were examined for clinical characteristics of psoriasis, PASI scores, and data of age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, comorbidities, and co-medications were analysed for both patients and controls. We identified 1661 (92.8%) patients with mild to moderate psoriasis (PASI < 10) and 129 patient's (7.03%) with severe psoriasis (PASI > 10). Patients with psoriasis were more likely to be current smokers (51.34% vs 32.51% controls). Respective prevalence rates of risk ...

Herbal medicines interaction with cardiovascular medicines

NeLM - News — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: NHS Choices Area: News NHS Choices has featured an article discussing a systematic review of studies investigating the potential harms and interactions of herbal products for people with heart disease. The review identifies interactions with St John's wort, ginkgo biloba and garlic. Other herbal medicines examined also includes grapefruit juice, hawthorn, saw palmetto, danshen, tetrandrine, aconite, yohimbine, gynura, licorice, and black cohosh. The researchers also discuss the effectiveness of these medicines in treating the conditions mentioned. Please see link below. (Source: NeLM - News)

Computed Tomography Shows Advantage in Heart Disease

Modern Medicine — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Computed tomography appears to hold an advantage over magnetic resonance imaging for ruling out coronary artery disease, according to research published in the Feb. 2 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Suicide rate high after prostate cancer diagnosis

OnMedica Latest News — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Cardiac death and suicide more likely immediately after diagnosis of metastatic prostate tumourRelated items from OnMedicaCancer survival rates have nearly doubled since start of NHSCancer survival rates not improved much in a decade Child cancer survivors at greater risk of heart disease Herceptin of benefit in more breast cancer casesObesity increases health risk for everyone (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Complement factor H Y402H gene polymorphism and coronary heart disease susceptibility: a meta-analysis.

Molecular Biology Reports — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Zhang HF, Wang JF, Wang Y, Zhu LG, Lei L The complement factor H (CFH) Y402H (T1277C) gene polymorphism has been reported to be associated with coronary heart disease (CHD), but results were conflicting. To evaluate the role of the variant in CHD, we performed meta-analyses of all available data. Both electronic and manual searches were performed, all relevant studies were identified. ORs with 95% confidential intervals (CI) under codominant (CC versus TT, TC versus TT), dominant (CC + TC versus TT) and recessive (CC versus TT + TC) models were calculated. Publication bias was addressed. Ten studies including 11 cohorts comprising of 29,764 participants were included. No association between the CFH T1227C polymorphism and CHD could be found. (For overall analysis: dominant mod...

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Potential Cardiac Valve Effects of Dopamine Agonists in Hyperprolactinemia.

The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Although most reports do not show an association between use of dopamine agonists and valvulopathy, caution must be exercised, especially in patients requiring long-term, high-dose medication regimens. Clinicians should recommend the lowest possible doses of dopamine agonists and address the question of echocardiographic monitoring on an individual basis. PMID: 20130078 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism)

Elevated Fasting Plasma Cortisol Is Associated with Ischemic Heart Disease and Its Risk Factors in People with Type 2 Diabetes: The Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study.

The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The previously described associations between HPA axis activation and features of the metabolic syndrome are present among people with type 2 diabetes. Elevated plasma cortisol is also associated with a greater prevalence of ischemic heart disease, independent of conventional risk factors. Understanding the role of cortisol in the pathogenesis of ischemic heart disease merits further exploration. PMID: 20130072 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism)

Teenager Heart Disease Risk

Disabled World — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 23:46:15 +0100

Lifestyle changes for teens critical in light of research about teens heart disease risk - Simple ways teens can combat high cholesterol and other risk factors for heart disease; initiate small incremental changes during American Heart Month... (Source: Disabled World)

Even With Heart Disease Awareness on the Rise, Prevention Remains Critically Important for American Women

National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 20:46:00 +0100

In recognition of American Heart Month, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and its heart disease awareness campaign -- The Heart Truth -- is reminding all American women that heart disease prevention remains critically important, despite that fact that awareness is at an all time high. More women than ever know that heart disease is their leading killer, yet millions of women are at risk, at increasingly younger ages. (Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH) News Releases)

Mayo Clinic to Celebrate National Wear Red Day on

Mayo Clinic Rochester News — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 19:15:31 +0100

Mayo Clinic will celebrate National Wear Red Day, when people nationwide wear red to support women's heart disease awareness. (Source: Mayo Clinic Rochester News)

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Herbal medicines affect heart drugs

NHS News Feed — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:32:00 +0100

Conclusion This review has looked at a serious topic using acceptable methods. There are several difficulties due to the fact they found little good quality research on the topic: Most of the research into the harms from these drugs is from single case reports or case series. This is regarded as low-level evidence, because without a control group it is not possible to say for certain what caused the events and what the background rates of these incidents (such as bleeding) are in the general population. There is no detail on how the researchers selected the articles or how many they found in their search. A fully systematic review would describe the number of studies identified by the search and the detailed methods of each study. As this report has not done this, the reader is una...

As Use of Herbal Remedies Soars, Patients Taking These and Cardiovascular Medications May be at Heightened Risk of Dangerous, Potentially Life-Threatening Interactions

News from Mayo Clinic — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:10:37 +0100

Many of today's popular herbal supplements can pose serious risks to people who are taking medications for heart disease, according to a review article published in the Feb. 9, 2010, issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. (Source: News from Mayo Clinic)

As Use of Herbal Remedies Soars, Patients Taking These and Cardiovascular Medications May be at Heightened Risk of Dangerous, Potentially Life-Threatening Interactions

Mayo Clinic Research News — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:10:37 +0100

As Use of Herbal Remedies Soars, Patients Taking These and Cardiovascular Medications May be at Heightened Risk of Dangerous, Potentially Life-Threatening Interactions

Mayo Clinic Arizona News — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 16:10:37 +0100

Fat tissue in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Medicineworld.org: New Article Alert — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:04:45 +0100

produces an inadequate amount of the hormone that regulates how fats and glucose are processed, promoting increased insulin resistance and inflammation, glucose intolerance, and greater risk of diabetes and heart disease, as per a research studyconducted at the Center for Androgen-Related Research and Discovery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center........ (Source: Medicineworld.org: New Article Alert)

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Cedars-Sinai Researchers: Fat Behaves Differently In Patients With Polycistic Ovary Syndrome

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:00:00 +0100

Cedars-Sinai Researchers: Fat Behaves Differently In Patients With Polycistic Ovary Syndrome

Endocrinology News From Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:00:00 +0100

Fat tissue in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome produces an inadequate amount of the hormone that regulates how fats and glucose are processed, promoting increased insulin resistance and inflammation, glucose intolerance, and greater risk of diabetes and heart disease, according to a study conducted at the Center for Androgen-Related Research and Discovery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center... (Source: Endocrinology News From Medical News Today)

Consumption Of Whole Grain Falls Short Of Guidelines

Obesity / Weight Loss / Fitness News From Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Consumption Of Whole Grain Falls Short Of Guidelines

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:00:00 +0100

Three daily servings of whole grains are recommended for prevention of type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and excess weight gain. Yet few adolescents or young adults follow these guidelines, according to national survey data. In a study published in the February 2010 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association, researchers from the School of Public Health, University of Minnesota report that young people are consuming less than 1 serving of whole grains per day... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

News From The Annals Of Internal Medicine, February 2, 2010

MRI / PET / Ultrasound News From Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

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Herbal Remedies May Increase Risk Of Dangerous Drug Interactions In Heart Patients

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

News From The Annals Of Internal Medicine, February 2, 2010

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

1. Among Noninvasive Imaging Tests, CT More Accurate Than MRI for Ruling Out Coronary Artery Disease Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major cause of death in the United States. Typically, CAD is diagnosed through conventional coronary angiography. However, this technique is invasive and potentially risky. While several less invasive tests can be used to view the coronary arteries, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are preferred because of their superior image quality... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Herbal Remedies May Increase Risk Of Dangerous Drug Interactions In Heart Patients

Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine News From Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0100

How you can help heal a failing heart

the Mail online | Health — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:20:49 +0100

Heart disease is Britain's biggest killer, taking the lives of 120,000 people every year. While many others survive, their lives are often blighted by depression, anxiety, ill health and a fear of dying young. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

FDA Approves Novel Study Of Neurostimulation As Treatment For Heart Disease

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

The FDA recently approved the first study of neurostimulation as a treatment for heart failure, a chronic disease that affects nearly six million Americans and is the leading cause of hospitalization in America. "Despite our best efforts to treat heart failure with current drugs, patients with advanced heart failure continue to deteriorate," said Dr. Guillermo Torre-Amione, heart failure specialist at the Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center and principal investigator for the study. "There is an urgent need to improve treatment for these patients... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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FDA Approves Novel Study Of Neurostimulation As Treatment For Heart Disease

Neurology / Neuroscience News From Medical News Today — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Impairment of Cognitive Function Reported by Patients Suffering from Carcinoid Syndrome

World Journal of Surgery — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:58:00 +0100

Conclusions Patients with CS report high levels of symptoms of impairment in all cognitive domains; however, on formal neurocognitive testing, patients scored lower than expected only in tests of verbal memory delayed recall and visual-perceptual function. These findings appear to confirm our clinical impression that cognitive impairment may be an additional feature of CS. Further studies are needed to confirm and elucidate the cause of this cognitive impairment. Content Type Journal ArticleDOI 10.1007/s00268-010-0404-9Authors Anthony J. Chambers, University of Calgary and Tom Baker Cancer Centre Divisions of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, Department of Surgery Calgary AB T2N 2T9 CanadaR. Stewart Longman, Foothills Hospital, Alberta Health Services Department...

Cholesterol's link to heart disease gets clearer -- and more complicated

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(Cell Press) By considering molecular-level events on a broader scale, researchers now have a clearer, if more complicated, picture of how one class of immune cells goes wrong when loaded with cholesterol. The findings reported in the Feb. 3 issue of Cell Metabolism, a Cell Press publication, show that, when it comes to the development of atherosclerosis and heart disease, it's not about any one bad actor -- it's about a network gone awry. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Doctors miss major cause of infertility and obesity

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(Northwestern University) Ballooning weight, irregular periods and trouble getting pregnant are red flags for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It's a serious metabolic disorder and one of the major causes of hormonally related infertility -- affecting about 5 million women in the US. But the disorder remains largely undiagnosed and unknown. The complex genetic disease has long-term health risks throughout a woman's lifespan, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease. New research shows men are also affected. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Lifestyle changes for teens critical in light of research about teens' heart disease risk

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(Kellen Communications) Lifestyle changes for teens are critical in light of new research about teens' heart disease risk. Parents can initiate small incremental changes during American Heart Month (February) to encourage lasting behavior change and combat high cholesterol and other risk factors for heart disease. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Brain Abscess in an Adult With Atrial Septal Defect

Clinical Cardiology — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

This article describes the case of a 41-year-old man who presented with altered mental status. Brain MRI showed a brain abscess at the left frontal lobe. The patient was successfully treated with surgical removal and appropriate antibiotics. Echocardiographic examination showed atrial septal defect (ASD) with bidirectional shunt. Transcatheter closure of ASD was carried out 6 months after neurosurgical treatment. We discuss the association of brain abscess and ASD. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Clinical Cardiology)

Cochrane review: Roselle for hypertension in adults

NeLM - Complementary Medicine — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Complementary Medicine Background Hypertension is considered a serious health problem worldwide. Controlling and lowering blood pressure have a significant benefit to the hypertensive patients because hypertension is a risk factor for stroke, heart disease and cardiovascular disease. A tropical plant called Roselle, or Red Sorrel in English-speaking countries, has been used both as a thirst-quenching drink and for medical purposes. Objectives To explore the effect of Roselle on blood pressure in hypertensive adult patients. Search strategy The following databases were searched (Date of most recent search was September 2009): - Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2nd Quarter 2009) - DARE (2nd Quarter 2009) - Ovid MEDLIN...

Fish Oil to Prevent Psychotic Disorders?

About.com Bipolar Disorder — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

As reported by the Associated Press, this month the Archives of General Psychiatry has published the results of a study that was designed to find out whether omega-3 fatty acids such as are found in fish oil have any benefit in preventing psychosis from developing, specific in teens and young adults. The study was small - just 81 participants - but the results were strong enough to make the outcome very encouraging. The patients, aged 13 to 25, were selected on the basis of being at ultra-high risk for developing a psychotic disorder such as schizophrenia, based on early symptoms. After one year, 27.5% of the placebo group had developed full-blown psychosis, but only 4.9% of those taking omega-3 fatty acids had done so. If these findings stand up in larger studies, will the results turn ...

Prostate Cancer Hormone Therapy May Increase Heart Risk

American Cancer Society :: News and Features — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:00:42 +0100

While hormone therapy is beneficial for many men with prostate cancer, there is growing concern that it may increase heart disease risk factors, according to a new report by leading health organizations. (Source: American Cancer Society :: News and Features)

Photo Release -- The Women of EHE International Go RED to Raise Awareness of the #1 Killer of American Women: Heart Disease

Medical News (via PRIMEZONE) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 22:54:00 +0100

NEW YORK, Feb. 1, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The women of EHE International, a leader in preventive healthcare for 97 years, are donning their red dresses once again in support of national Red Dress Day designed to raise public awareness of heart disease as the #1 cause of death among women. This year's official photo features 35 women from EHE International adorned in glamorous red silk and satin formal dresses. Since 2004, EHE International has featured its women and its heart disease campaign in a window display located at 10 Rockefeller Plaza in the heart of New York City throughout the month of February. (Source: Medical News (via PRIMEZONE))

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Herbal remedies, heart drugs don't mix: review

Reuters: Health — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 22:14:10 +0100

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Taking ginkgo biloba, St. John's wort and other widely used herbal supplements may be risky for people on heart disease medication, especially the elderly, according to a medical review released on Monday. (Source: Reuters: Health)

Roles of Gastrointestinal and Adipose Tissue Peptides in Childhood Obesity and Changes After Weight Loss Due to Lifestyle Intervention [Review Article]

Archives of Pediatrics — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:51:04 +0100

Childhood obesity is a global epidemic and associated with an increased risk of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and coronary heart disease, in addition to psychological disorders. Interventions such as bariatric surgery are highly invasive and lifestyle modifications are often unsuccessful because of disturbed perceptions of satiety. New signaling peptides discovered in recent years that are produced in peripheral tissues such as the gut, adipose tissue, and pancreas communicate with brain centers of energy homeostasis, such as the hypothalamus and hindbrain. This review discusses the major known gut- and adipose tissue–derived hormones involved in the regulation of food intake and energy homeostasis and their serum levels in childhood obesity before and after weight loss as well as...

Hospital scanner could curb nuclear waste threat

ScienceDaily Headlines — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 16:00:00 +0100

Medical equipment used for diagnosis of patients with heart disease and cancer could be a key weapon in stopping nuclear waste seeping into the environment, according to new research. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Heart disease "will kill 400,000 Americans in 2010"

Reuters: Health — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 15:47:19 +0100

LONDON (Reuters) - Decades of progress in the United States on cutting cholesterol, blood pressure and smoking are being stalled by rising obesity rates, and heart disease will kill around 400,000 Americans this year, experts said on Monday. (Source: Reuters: Health)