July 4, 2008

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Cardiovascular Center   [ Home >  Cardiovascular >  More  Related Items ]   CARDIOVASCULAR - ARTICLES Smokers may quit together June 20, 2008 Social behavior is important in smoking. People who are close to those who quit are more likely to give up too, providing a new way of helping cessation efforts. New angle on cholesterol profiles June 20, 2008 High density lipoprotein, on its own, may not be a risk factor in heart disease. People with a genetic makeup that affects HDL do not have an increased likelihood of heart problems, according to a new study. Diabetics with high blood pressure are losing out June 6, 2008 Although high blood pressure is a threat to people with diabetes, doctors do not always do anything about it. A new study shows that only half of those at risk get the care and attention that they need. Obesity rates vary with ethnicity in the United States May 23, 2008 A survey of ethnic groups in the United States shows that obesity is less common among Chinese Americans. And obesity is strongly linked to risk factors for heart disease. Folic acid does not reduce women's heart risk May 23, 2008 Taking a B vitamin supplement lowered homocysteine levels but did not reduce the risk of heart disease in a group of women. Therefore, supplementation with folic acid appears not to be a useful preventive measure. Overweight women who exercise mitigate their heart risk May 9, 2008 Being physically active can offset some of the heart risks of being overweight, according to a long-running study on women's health. But the best combination is physical activity plus a healthy weight. Death rates after heart surgery are down May 9, 2008 Heart bypass surgery is safer than ever according to a new study. Hospitals where fewer heart procedures are carried out have shown a dramatic decrease in death rates following surgery. Pharmacists play role in caring for people with heart failure May 9, 2008 Patients with heart failure do better when a pharmacist is involved in their care, according to a new study. The findings suggest a new and broader approach may be successful for this increasing public health problem. Lose weight, lower your blood pressure April 25, 2008 The evidence points to weight loss as an effective strategy for controlling blood pressure. The slimming drug orlistat works, too, but sibutramine actually increases blood pressure. Rimonabant doesn't reduce heart risk April 25, 2008 When put to the test, rimonabant shows it can help shed pounds and reduce waist measurement. But it is less clear whether it really reduces the risk of heart disease. Simple reminders are very effective for heart patients March 28, 2008 Simple direct-to-patient communication can boost adherence to medication regimes after a heart attack, which could improve long-term survival prospects. 7 reasons why we die of a heart attack March 28, 2008 Heart attacks and strokes are highly preventable. You can create a lifestyle that will give you an excellent chance of avoiding them. Low fat, not low carb, for heart health March 10, 2008 A traditional low fat diet could be better for your heart than a low carbohydrate diet, according to a new study. Low fat improves the health of the arteries, while low carb has an adverse effect. This counters any improvements in weight, blood pressure or lipid profile. The long-term outcome of blood clots is not reassuring March 10, 2008 Patients who experience an episode of deep vein thrombosis are at risk of recurrence, according to a new study. Those who have had a pulmonary embolism face an increased risk of death within three years. When Time Is of the Essence February 28, 2008 For someone who's had a heart attack, the time from the first symptoms until the coronary artery can be re-opened is vital. This 'door-to-balloon' time for cath. lab. intervention is ideally less than 90 minutes; a review in the New England Journal of Medicine discusses ways to achieve this target. How Stress at Work Hurts Your Heart February 14, 2008 A British study has examined the ways in which job stress can cause coronary heart disease. In a third of cases, the effect is clearly related to low physical activity, poor diet, or the features of the metabolic syndrome; in others, the effect on the cardiovascular system was more direct. Acupuncture for Hypertension - Is It Feasible? July 31, 2007 In contrast to previously reported results, acupuncture given by experienced Chinese clinicians to hypertensive patients produced significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure; the benefits did not persist after the 6-week treatment period ended, however. Prevent and Control America's Blood Pressure: MISSION POSSIBLE May 31, 2007 Fewer than 40% of hypertensives have their blood pressure under control. Making sure they take their prescribed treatment is a large part of the answer, and strategies to address this are discussed here, under the motto MISSION POSSIBLE. Periodontitis - How it Causes Cardiovascular Problems March 22, 2007 Periodontitis (inflammation of the gums around the teeth) is a risk factor for atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attack and stroke. A new study shows how infection of the gums spreads to generalized inflammatory change in the body, which itself initiates the early arterial changes . . . Long-term Survival after a Heart Attack February 19, 2007 Poor adherence to prescription orders for a statin after a heart attack is associated with an increased risk of mortality; the same, to a lesser extent, is true for beta-blockers. This is demonstrated in a new study from Canada. High Blood Pressure Dropouts January 22, 2007 "Drugs don't work in patients who don't take them" (Dr C Everett Koop). A simple questionnaire can help identify high blood pressure patients who don't take their medications and are therefore at increased risk of serious cardiovascular events and even death. Preventing a first heart attack or stroke with a statin January 3, 2007 Taking a statin drug, whether your cholesterol level is raised or not, reduces your overall risk of a heart attack or a stroke, even when you have not had one earlier. This is known as 'primary prevention'. Are You Headed For the Nursing Home? October 10, 2006 There are risk factors for admission to a nursing home, as for other ill-health mileposts. Rutgers researchers have studied which lifestyle factors are actual risk factors for early nursing home confinement. This is a summary of their findings. Take the Walking Test, if You Dare! June 5, 2006 People over 70 who have difficulty in performing a simple quarter-mile walking test are more likely to have health problems in the next 5 years - an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, or death, or limitation of mobility. The Variability of Blood Glucose in Diabetics May 22, 2006 Researchers now realize that fasting and post-prandial blood sugars, and HbA1c estimations, aren't enough to determine if there is risky variability in blood sugar levels over the day. One may have to go to more frequent finger pricks or even continuous glucose monitoring to assess properly the risks of diabetic complications . . . Controversy About Salt Intake April 10, 2006 Everyone should limit their salt intake, right? "Wrong", according to a new study. A low salt intake may actually be associated with an increase in cardiovascular mortality . . . Beat the Odds of Alzheimer's April 10, 2006 A new study shows that older people who take medication against blood pressure have a surprising side effect. They appear to have decreased odds of contracting Alzheimer's disease. The association is particularly strong for the potassium-sparing diuretics (water pills), such as spironolactone. Stress at Work and the Metabolic Syndrome February 13, 2006 The demands of a job and how it is organized can lead to stress at work. A new study shows that this can cause development of the metabolic syndrome, which in turn can be followed by cardiovascular disease. Improve Your Heart Rate Variability January 2, 2006 Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of cardiac function that seems to have predictability for survival after a heart attack. One way to improve it is to take a fish oil supplement, according to a new study . . . Thiazide Treatment Protects Against Hip Fracture January 29, 2004 The use of thiazide diuretics for treating hypertension has decreased in recent years. However, there is a beneficial 'side effect' of their use - they can reduce the frequency of hip fracture by 50% after a year's use. It's Not Just Lipoprotein Density - Particle Size is Important (1) December 4, 2003 Longevity is partly inherited. A new study, summarized here, has shown that a gene variant may be responsible for a reduced risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, as well as increased longevity, by regulating the size of lipoprotein cholesterol particles . . . It's Not Just Lipoprotein Density - Particle Size is Important (2) December 4, 2003 A pilot study of intravenous injections of a modified lipoprotein complex that resembles HDL has produced a rapid reduction in coronary artery atheroma. This may be due to larger-than-normal HDL particles in the complex . . . Metabolic Syndrome Predicts Type 2 Diabetes September 10, 2003 The metabolic syndrome, which is becoming increasingly common, has been shown to predict not only coronary heart disease, but even more compellingly, type 2 diabetes . . . Preventing Cardiovascular Disease with One Pill? July 25, 2003 Two British physicians, after analyzing over 750 clinical trial involving 400,000 patients, have proposed the development of a "Polypill" containing a statin, three antihypertensives (at half dose), folic acid, and aspirin. If taken by everyone over 55, the rate of heart attack and stroke would be cut by over 80%. Prevalence of Hypertension in Europe and North America July 18, 2003 A new study reveals considerable differences in the average blood pressure and the prevalence of hypertension between European countries and the USA and Canada. Recognition and treatment of hypertension appears to be even worse in Europe than in the United States. Serum Testosterone and Atherosclerosis in Diabetic Men July 4, 2003 Testosterone supplements have often been labeled as 'atherogenic', whereas a new study in diabetics shows that low testosterone levels are associated with increased evidence of atherosclerosis. What does this mean - another U-shaped risk curve? Multifaceted Approach to Diabetes Management March 28, 2003 A new study from Denmark has shown that aggressive treatment of risk factors such as hypertension, elevated cholesterol levels, and elevated triglycerides, can markedly reduce diabetes-related vascular complications. Lycopene Shown to Block Early Signs of Atherosclerosis February 14, 2003 A study of carotid artery intimal wall thickness expands on what we know of the connection between serum lycopene status and cardiovascular disease. Managing Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes February 7, 2003 Diabetics are at greatly increased risk of cardiovascular events (myocardial infarct, stroke, heart failure), compared with non-diabetics. The review summarized here covers the goals for therapy, and how to reach them. Studies Address Concern of Mercury-Tainted Fish January 17, 2003 Studies present a conflicting picture of the relationship between mercury levels and cardiovascular risk. Metabolic Syndrome Increases Cardiovascular Disease Risk January 17, 2003 A study from Finland reminds health professionals that a cluster of symptoms - obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension - that constitute the so-called metabolic syndrome, radically increases the risk of fatal cardiovascular disease. How Useful is Homocysteine in Predicting Cardiovascular Disease Risk? January 17, 2003 A new meta-analysis shows that elevated homocysteine levels "modestly" predict the risk for cardiovascular disease. Waist Circumference as a Measure For Health Risks December 20, 2002 A Canadian study shows that an increased waist circumference predicts health risks, independent of the body mass index. Exercise Shown to Improve Lipid Profiles December 20, 2002 The benefit of exercise on detailed lipid profiles may extend beyond what is readily apparent in routine lipid panel tests, according to a study summarized here. Exercise: How Much and What Type to Prevent Heart Disease? December 20, 2002 A major study has been reported that looks at how the intensity and duration of various exercise regimens can affect cardiovascular health. C-reactive Protein (CRP) Predicts First Cardiovascular Events November 28, 2002 C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for systemic inflammation, has now been shown to be superior to LDL cholesterol determination in predicting cardiovascular events. Should it be added to the routine cardiovascular screen? Exercise Shown to Keep Inflammation Markers in Check November 14, 2002 A large study has linked vigorous exercise to lower levels of C-reactive protein. Exercise Helps Control Diabetic Vascular Disease November 14, 2002 Here's a MEDLINE-sourced literature summary of exercise and cardiovascular health in people with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. The Use of Sertraline in Post-MI Depression October 25, 2002 Classical antidepressants are not used in post-MI depression or in depression after unstable angina, because they have cardiotoxic effects. The study summarized here reports on the cardiac safety and effectiveness of sertraline, an SSRI, in these patients. Lasting Benefits to Homocysteine-Lowering B Vitamins October 11, 2002 A study demonstrates that the benefits of using B vitamins to lower homocysteine levels persist at one year after coronary angioplasty. Vitamin E May Slow Plaque Build-Up October 11, 2002 An Italian study shows an inverse association between vitamin E status and the development of preclinical atherosclerosis. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Aid Artery Function October 11, 2002 A recent study takes scientists one small step further in determining how omega-3 fatty acids function with regard to heart health. Heart Failure Linked to Obesity September 18, 2002 Data from the Framingham Heart Study indicates that heart failure should be added to the long list of conditions that are influenced by obesity. Fitness and CRP Levels September 5, 2002 Both cardiorespiratory fitness and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are associated with coronary artery disease, while fitness and CRP are also related. A new study has studied this relationship in three ethnic groups of women . . . . Diet and Exercise Reverse Effects of Hypertension August 8, 2002 Moderate changes to eating and exercise habits may produce measurable improvements in left ventricle parameters in hypertensive individuals. Age-Associated Cardiovascular Changes in Health and Disease August 1, 2002 Many of the cardiovascular diseases that occur in elderly people are predicated on age-related changes that occur naturally in older organisms. Professor Lakatta's article describes some of these changes . . . . Serum Potassium and Cardiovascular Events July 16, 2002 Enough potassium in the diet appears to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the relationship between serum potassium and heart disease is less clear. Angioplasty Outcomes in Women June 28, 2002 Fifteen years ago it was known that women had poorer outcomes than men after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Today, the situation is different. Outcomes are virtually the same for men and women, even though women still have a greater number of risk factors at the time of the procedure... Chronic Heart Failure in Older Persons June 28, 2002 We replicate here Dr Lakatta's introduction to an ever-growing problem in our aging society, congestive heart failure. This article, reproduced from Heart Failure Reviews, covers all aspects of the etiology and management of this condition in aging persons... Older Adults Need Better Treatment of Cardiovascular Risk Factors June 20, 2002 A new study reminds clinicians that older people, with or without type 2 diabetes, need improved ongoing care to keep CVD risk factors under control. Atrial Fibrillation - Update June 4, 2002 As we learn more, the management of atrial fibrillation is moving from control and combating the condition towards finding the best way to cure it. Here is a summary of a recent broad review of the condition and its treatment. Cholesterol Tied to Cognitive Function in Elderly May 16, 2002 Serum total cholesterol levels were shown in this study to be correlated with memory skills in the elderly. Are they a 'marker' for Alzheimer disease? More Evidence of the Health Benefits of Fish May 16, 2002 Two studies provide data reported by Harvard researchers that show that eating fish seems to reduce cardiac disease . . . . . Are ARBs better than ACE-inhibitors? May 7, 2002 Both ARBs and ACE inhibitors interfere with angiotensin's effects, leading to their therapeutic effectiveness. But are there differences between the two drug classes? And are these differences clinically relevant? The Risk of Withdrawing Statins April 23, 2002 Retrospective analysis of an acute coronary artery syndrome study (PRISM) has shown that stopping statins suddenly can have serious results . . . . Is There a Syndrome-X Epidemic? February 15, 2002 The metabolic syndrome -- syndrome X -- is clearly age-related, more prevalent than we thought up to now, and its frequency in the US is probably increasing rapidly . . . Use of Antioxidants to Prevent Coronary Disease Questionable February 8, 2002 A recent study calls into question the role of antioxidants in the prevention of heart disease. B Vitamins Decrease the Restenosis Rate After Angioplasty February 8, 2002 A new study shows that lower plasma homocysteine levels are associated with a reduced rate of restenosis after angioplasty . . . . Angiotensin-Receptor Blocker Valsartan in Chronic Heart Failure December 13, 2001 Heart failure continues to be a challenging disease in terms of mortality and morbidity. A recent randomized trial examined the clinical outcomes when patients with heart failure took an angiotensin-receptor blocker in addition to their existing therapies. Can Tea Protect Against Heart Disease? December 6, 2001 Just how strong is the science that suggests that tea leaves may provide some protection against disease? Vitamin Therapy May Cut Cost of Heart Disease October 18, 2001 New research suggests that the prophylactic use of folic acid and B12 - with the intent to lower homocysteine - could substantially reduce the incidence of heart disease. Managing Elevated Lipid Levels October 5, 2001 New guidelines from the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommend a much more aggressive attack on elevated lipid levels. The new target levels for treatment are based on recent evaluations of risk factors for coronary artery disease. Catechins -- The Secret in The Tea Leaves? September 26, 2001 The health benefits of tea may be due to catechins, a member of the flavonoid family of phytochemicals. Excess Weight Adds Health Problems August 31, 2001 Obesity is on the rise worldwide. Another new study warns of the long-range health risks of being overweight. Best Tests for Predicting Future Atherosclerosis August 24, 2001 Inflammatory biomarker tests, such as plasma C-reactive protein and fibrinogen, have been incorporated into screening programs for determining the risk of atherosclerosis. Which are better - blood lipid profiles or these newer tests? The study summarized here reports on this with regard to peripheral arterial disease, using data from the Harvard Medical School's Physicians Health Study. Lutein May Help Protect Heart Health August 14, 2001 In vivo and in vitro analyses show that the carotenoid lutein seems to protect arterial tissue from the oxidative damage that leads to heart disease. The Metabolic Syndrome: Time for Action! August 10, 2001 New guidelines from the National Cholesterol Education Program on target LDL cholesterol levels have made news. Just as important, however, are the recommendations regarding the increasingly-common metabolic syndrome... Coffee Appears To Increase Cholesterol - Sometimes July 2, 2001 Some scientists suspect that coffee increases cholesterol levels, but not all types of coffee produce the same effect. Check the uric acid - it's not necessarily gout July 2, 2001 Earlier reports have proposed a relationship between raised serum uric acid levels and cardiovascular disease, but they have been criticized for failing to correct for confounding influences such as obesity and hypertension. Now comes a study that appears to resolve the question. Folic Acid Buffers Harmful Homocysteine July 2, 2001 British researchers suggest that folic acid supplements may reduce heart disease risk by lowering harmfully high levels of serum homocysteine. Should Seniors Drink To Their Health? July 2, 2001 We've heard about the health benefits of red wine. Now two recent studies suggest that a moderate intake of any kind of alcoholic beverage may be beneficial to the heart. Diabetes, hypertension, and mild cognitive decline in middle-aged adults July 2, 2001 Treatment of hypertension and diabetes before age 60 might lessen the burden of cognitive impairment in later life, according to the results of this study. While several studies have shown a clear relationship between diabetes mellitus, cognitive decline and dementia (usually vascular dementia), and a relationship between hypertension and cognitive decline, none of them have been large-scale longitudinal studies or have measured cognition in middle life. Diastolic heart failure in the elderly April 10, 2001 Recent studies have shown that over half the elderly patients with congestive heart failure have normal, or nearly normal, systolic function (as measured by the left ventricular ejection fraction). These patients have diastolic heart failure, a condition that is not yet well studied. Two studies summarized here have looked more closely at diastolic failure. Anti-Inflammatory Medication Linked to Congestive Heart Failure Risk April 10, 2001 Elderly users of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) who have a history of heart disease are at higher risk for developing congestive heart failure (CHF) than non-users, according to the results of an Australian study summarized here. Bypass surgery and cognitive decline February 28, 2001 Coronary-artery bypass grafting has saved many lives and improved many patients' cardiac symptoms. However, the procedure is responsible for a degree of cognitive decline in elderly patients. How much decline, and for how long, has recently been reported. Depression in the Elderly Can Predict Coronary Heart Disease February 12, 2001 Several epidemiological studies have documented a relationship between depression and cardiovascular risk, yet most of these were done in middle-aged persons. This study investigates whether symptoms of depression in a healthy elderly cohort puts them at higher risk for coronary heart disease and total mortality. Moderate Coffee Intake Not Hazardous To Heart Health January 22, 2001 University of Helsinki researchers found no association between coffee intake and cardiovascular disease in a large cohort of coffee-loving Finnish adults. Anger, increased cardiovascular risk, and homocysteine January 22, 2001 High blood levels of homocysteine are known to be associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. It's also been shown that hostility is related to the development of coronary heart disease. A new study has "closed the loop", linking anger and hostility in healthy adults with elevated homocysteine levels. Male cardiac mortality and sporting events January 15, 2001 Different types of stress, such as heavy physical work, unusual mental or emotional strain, and alcoholic binging, have been shown to precipitate cardiac events in susceptible individuals. A recent Dutch study has now shown that sitting in front of a TV set is not without risk, at least for men. How dangerous is vigorous exertion? December 15, 2000 Sudden cardiac death occurs with increased frequency during or shortly after vigorous exercise. However, physical activity has numerous beneficial effects on health, in particular being associated with a reduction in mortality from cardiac events. How can these conflicting truths be reconciled? Circadian rhythm and antihypertensive treatment November 23, 2000 Cardiovascular conditions with a circadian rhythm in their rates of occurrence include angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, sudden cardiac death related to ventricular tachycardia, and stroke; these are all more common in the early morning hours. A new approach makes use of chronotherapy to control morning hypertension and reduce cardiovascular events, while avoiding the risk of severe nocturnal dips in blood pressure Healthy Lifestyle Can Reduce Women's Heart Disease Risk October 30, 2000 Diet and lifestyle can affect the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD). But typically, different risk factors and their effects on the risk for CHD are studied individually. Because people follow common lifestyle patterns. Getting a handle on syndrome X September 18, 2000 Syndrome X, also known as the insulin-resistance syndrome, is a metabolic disorder manifested by hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, a high triglyceride level, a low HDL cholesterol level, and abdominal/visceral obesity. It also is associated with hypertension, premature atherosclerosis, and an increased risk of myocardial infarction. It is known that treating hypertension in syndrome X subjects does not produce the expected reduction in ischemic heart disease, but why is this? . Good Health Habits Help Women's Hearts August 24, 2000 Are all those veggie salads and laps around the track worth it? Yes, according to a report in The New England Journal of Medicine that says that careful attention to eating and exercise habits. Dizziness in old people July 27, 2000 As many as one in three older people complain that they get dizzy spells. As dizziness leads to an increased likelihood of falling, it's important to try to find the cause, or causes, in each case. In this study, the incidence and etiological factors of dizziness in people over 72 years were examined . Lifestyle Changes Or Medication? July 27, 2000 The need for a preventive approach to cardiovascular disease is well recognised and has had considerable success during the past thirty years. Equally clear is the fact that . Giant Cell Arteritis July 20, 2000 Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is an inflammatory disorder of the branches of the aorta and, occasionally, the ascending aorta itself. The inflammatory response appears to begin as a reaction to an antigen in the artery, which activates cytotoxic (TH1) lymphocytes that enter the vessel wall through the vasa vasorum in the adventia of the arteries. Statins for the older-old July 12, 2000 In 1994 a report led to the belief that there were no benefits to be obtained by treating hypercholesterolemia in people over 75. With the availability of the statins, this viewpoint should be revised. Why Do Official Guidelines for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease Stop Short at the Age of 80? June 16, 2000 Diseases of the blood circulation include ischaemic heart disease (leading to heart attacks) and cerebrovascular disease (leading to stroke). The most prominent, measurable risk factor pointing. ACE inhibitor beneficial in diabetics at risk May 25, 2000 We have referred briefly on this site to the recently published results of the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) Study. This study, conducted at 267 centers in 19 countries in North and South America and Europe, compared the angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, ramipril, with placebo for effectiveness in reducing cardiovascular events in at-risk patients. Resistance exercises help cardiovascular patients May 24, 2000 Exercise programs for health purposes have traditionally emphasized aerobic exercise, with the intent of improving cardiovascular function, myocardial vigor, metabolic processes, and psychosocial well-being. Recently, however, resistance training has been found to offer more than a means of developing and maintaining muscle strength and mass. Hypothyroidism is a risk factor for MI April 27, 2000 Hypothyroidism is usually accompanied by raised serum cholesterol levels and hypertension, and is known to be associated with cardiovascular disease. It has not been established to date, however, whether subclinical hypothyroidism, which is common in elderly women, carries the same risk. Now an analysis of data from the Rotterdam Study has provided some evidence. Dr. Ed's Introduction April 7, 2000 You're losing your heart again! But this time it's not so much fun! You're losing that incredible organ, your heart to aging, not romance. The 'aging process' is known to causes specific cardiovascular. 'Are You in Shape for Your Age?' - Dr. Ed - Part I April 7, 2000 Most of us don't need to be told that our ability to perform aerobic activities, such as running, swimming, or biking declines, as we get older. We casually attribute this to the 'aging' process . 'Silent stroke' and depression March 30, 2000 Some elderly people with cerebrovascular disease have symptoms of depression such as apathy, cognitive impairment, and psychomotor retardation. Magnetic resonance imaging . Tackling coronary heart disease risk factors March 9, 2000 Recognition of the role of risk factors for acute myocardial infarction (MI) has led to the concept of secondary prevention (preventing recurrent coronary events in patients with established coronary heart disease - CHD) becoming well established. Some authorities regard this is as merely the correct treatment of CHD, not a preventive measure. Be that as it may, attention is now passing to the prevention of CHD, and thereby its consequences, in the first place. The review by Dr Scott Grundy, summarized here, gives an excellent status report of what we know (and don't know) of relevant risk factors, and debates how best the necessary steps can be implemented. More and more maintain their vigor January 20, 2000 Preventative health care once you've got a diagnosis of chronic disease? Why bother? After all, once you've got it, there's nothing to expect except disability and death. Atherogenesis - joining the dots January 4, 2000 The risk factors for atherogenesis are well known - they include hypertension, obesity, hypercholesterolemia and smoking. The pathological appearances of the lesions at all stages of their development are also established. However, the picture is incomplete. The mechanism leading to the earliest arterial change - damage to the endothelium - is still unknown. Recently, attention has turned to the possible role of an intracellular bacterium, Chlamydia pneumoniae . Purple grape juice and coronary artery disease October 12, 1999 We have referred elsewhere in these pages to what is known as the answer to the French Paradox - i.e. the rate of coronary heart disease mortality in France is lower than in other countries because of the frequent consumption of red wine. The mechanisms postulated for this have been alcohol-related increases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) and platelet inhibition. . Benefits of spironolactone in heart failure August 18, 1999 Congestive heart failure results in under-perfused tissues and congested organs, due to high plasma angiotensin II and aldosterone concentrations that overwhelm the ability of natriuretic peptides released by the heart to maintain normal blood volume and circulatory balance. Bad Effects of Cigars June 29, 1999 Cigar smoking is increasing in the United States, mainly in young and middle-aged men, but also among teenagers and women. The habit is known to be a risk factor for certain cancers (mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus and lung) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Risk factors for cerebral hemorrhage in hypertensive patients January 6, 1999 It is well recognized that hypertension is the most important risk factor for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). It is thought that raised blood pressure causes degenerative changes in the walls of the small arteries, rendering them more likely to rupture.   RELATED ITEMS Vitamin E Works for Some Diabetics December 20, 2007 Your Diet May Encourage Postprandial Problems December 20, 2007 Keep Taking Your Statin to Stop a Heart Attack! October 25, 2007 The Overlooked Triglycerides August 28, 2007 Managing Chronic Kidney Disease August 14, 2007 Your Waistline Guidelines June 28, 2007 HDL-Cholesterol's Role in Coronary Artery Disease March 5, 2007 The Normal-Weight Obese Syndrome February 5, 2007 Eat More Protein and Lower Your BP January 30, 2006 An Underactive Thyroid Carries Cardiac Risks December 19, 2005 Statins in Diabetes October 11, 2005 Back to the Future - Cobblestones! October 10, 2005 Unsafe Drugs? January 7, 2005 Low Diastolic Pressure and Alzheimer Disease in the Very Old July 29, 2004 Preventing Coronary Disease in Diabetics July 2, 2004 Measures to Prevent Stroke January 24, 2003 Effects of Light Smoking and Non-Inhalation in Women September 5, 2002 Non-Compliance with Antihypertensive Medications Linked to Depression August 23, 2002 More Evidence of Health Benefits of Nuts August 8, 2002 Vitamin C Status Linked to Stroke Risk July 16, 2002 Regular Exercise Helps Keep Inflammation in Check July 16, 2002 Survey Data Ties Folate to Reduced Stroke Risk June 20, 2002 Physical Therapy in Stroke April 12, 2002 Raised Homocysteine Levels: an Alzheimer Risk Factor March 27, 2002 Potassium May Curb Stroke Risk December 6, 2001 Carotid Endarterectomy in the Very-Old at Risk of Stroke November 28, 2001 High HDL Cholesterol Protective Against Stroke August 14, 2001 Two Treatable Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease August 10, 2001 Elevated Homocysteine Linked to Poor Memory July 25, 2001 Consider statins for preventing dementia? July 2, 2001 Breast cancer treatment and outcome in older women March 19, 2001 Lycopene and Its Emerging Role in Disease Prevention. December 15, 2000 Treating acute ischemic stroke October 17, 2000 Risk factors for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including dietary fat and fish July 12, 2000 Medical conditions and sexual problems June 14, 2000 High Fiber Diet May Help Control Diabetes June 8, 2000 Hypercoagulability March 30, 2000 Risk Factors (1) March 24, 2000 Risk Factors (2) March 24, 2000 Smoking cessation programs in women as a measure of lifestyle medicine February 2, 2000 Obstructive sleep apnea December 30, 1999 The risks of being overweight October 12, 1999

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