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Heart and Circulation Center
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HEART AND CIRCULATION - ARTICLES |
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 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.
Blood Pressure Treatment Failures
February 28, 2008
In spite of all efforts, there continue to be gaps in control of blood pressure in people with coronary heart disease. Nonadherence to the prescribed treatment regime is the biggest culprit, but failure of the physician to prescribe adequate medication (i.e. a sufficiently high dose, or addition of another drug) is also a problem.
Drilling Down into the Mediterranean Diet
February 28, 2008
It's possible that two substances found in the Mediterranean diet, choline and betaine, are linked to the early inflammatory changes in the body seen with cardiovascular disease. A Greek study has unearthed the connection . . .
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.
Vitamin D Inhibits Heart Disease
January 17, 2008
Low vitamin D levels in people with high blood pressure are associated with twice the usual risk of a cardiovascular event (e.g. heart attack, angina, stroke, heart failure) within 5 years. This, coupled with recent news of the protective effect of vitamin D on cancers of the breast, colon, and other organs, suggests the benefits of sunbathing may outweigh its risks ...
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.
Blood Pressure and Atrial Fibrillation
April 19, 2007
An easy-to-measure test - the pulse pressure - is an important risk factor for atrial fibrillation. The main sign of an increased pulse pressure is increased arterial stiffness, suggesting that improving arterial elasticity is a useful goal for people as they age.
Women's New Cardiac Health Guidelines
April 4, 2007
The American Heart Association has updated its guidelines for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in women. The major recommendations in the 2007 version are summarized in this article.
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'.
Angioplasty More Than 48 Hours after MI Without Benefit?
December 4, 2006
A controlled study has shown that angioplasty provides no benefit in patients with complete coronary artery blockage if done more than 48 hours after their heart attack. Mortality rate, a repeat heart attack, and heart failure are no less than in patients treated with optimal medical therapy.
Eye Exams Can Predict Heart Failure Risk
November 6, 2006
Retinal examinations can disclose the presence of diseases such as diabetes or hypertension. A recent study has shown that microvascular retinal changes are associated with an increased risk of the development of congestive heart failure ...
Omega-3s Are Superior to Defibrillators in Saving Lives
November 6, 2006
A quarter of a million US people suffer a sudden cardiac death each year without knowing that they have any cardiac problem. Increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake can reduce this death rate to a greater extent than the use of defibrillators.
Not Just Dropping Dead, After All
October 23, 2006
Sudden cardiac death is not always as sudden as it seems to be. A German analysis of out-of-hospital sudden deaths has shown that only one in four of the subjects had no previous cardiac disease or warning symptoms in the hours leading up to their collapse...
Not taking Your Meds Can Be Dangerous to Your Health
October 10, 2006
Failure to take prescribed medications after a heart attack triples the likelihood of dying in the following year; and in diabetics, not taking medications increases the rates of hospitalization and mortality significantly. This compliance problem costs about $100 billion annually in the USA alone...
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.
Treating Systolic Hypertension
August 16, 2006
Systolic hypertension - when your upper blood pressure number is too high - requires treating if it's pronounced, but managing milder forms is more controversial . . . Here's a summary of present thinking.
Healthy Drinking Habits
July 3, 2006
The benefits of mild to moderate alcohol consumption in a group of women and men in Denmark show a different pattern for the two sexes. The heart disease risk is lower in men who drink daily, and in women who drink once a week.
Magnesium and the Metabolic Syndrome
June 19, 2006
Low consumption of magnesium in the diet in your 20s and 30s is apparently associated with an increased likelihood of developing the metabolic syndrome, which itself predisposes one to cardiovascular disease and diabetes in later life
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.
Women: Say "Aloha" to Heart Disease
May 22, 2006
Most women don't know that heart disease is their number one killer in the USA. So a useful mnemonic - ALOHA - offers a good way to remind them how to cut their risk. We summarize the main features here.
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 . . .
Obesity Surgery and High Blood Pressure
April 24, 2006
Bariatric surgery (stomach surgery for obesity) is effective in reducing weight, the body mass index (BMI), and lowering high blood pressure. Some obese patients who had the procedure were able to come off their anti-hypertensive medications . . .
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.
Fried, Broiled, or Baked Fish?
March 13, 2006
It's long been known that cardiovascular disease is greater in people who eat fried fish rather than baked or broiled fish. Now the extensive study summarized here helps pinpoint the effects of these two food types on heart structure and function.
Try Calorie Restriction to Live Longer?
March 13, 2006
Mice given a very low calorie diet for their lifetime live much longer than their unrestricted siblings. Now a study has been done in human volunteers who ate a 1,670 calories-a-day diet for 6 years. There were interesting findings regarding cardiac function . . .
The Blood Pressure Villain is Cola, not Caffeine
February 27, 2006
A study to examine the possible role of caffeine in people with raised blood pressure has come up with a surprising result - it's the cola, not the caffeine, which harms.
Should You Be Taking an Aspirin a Day?
February 27, 2006
A pooled analysis of clinical studies shows that the protective effect of aspirin on cardiovascular disease is different in women than in men. Men have their risk of heart attack reduced, while women have fewer strokes. This report may help you decide if you should be taking aspirin, but check with your doctor first!
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.
So Long, Soy?
February 13, 2006
In spite of earlier reports, an analysis of pooled major published studies shows that soy protein and isoflavones do not have any relevant health benefits. The advantage of eating products containing soy and isoflavones lies in their polyunsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals content, and their lack of saturated fats.
Diabetic Women At Risk
January 30, 2006
There's been some controversy as to whether women with type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of fatal coronary heart disease than men. A new, larger analysis has settled the matter; women with diabetes have a 50% greater chance of dying from a heart attack than male diabetics.
ED As a Warning Sign?
January 16, 2006
Men who develop ED (erectile dysfunction) but are otherwise healthy should not be shy about visiting their doctor; there may be more at stake than occasional sexual dissatisfaction, according to a new study.
How Much Folic Acid Is Enough?
January 2, 2006
Raised blood homocysteine levels are linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke, and folic acid taken by mouth lowers homocysteine levels. So it's natural to ask: "How much folic acid should I take?" This article tries to provide an answer.
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 . . .
Do You CPR?
December 19, 2005
The AHA has issued new guidelines for CPR; the process has been simplified and sped up. It's likely to be more successful in resuscitating someone with cardiac arrest. Everyone should know how to do CPR...
The Importance of Rehab after a Heart Attack
December 5, 2005
Less than half of post-heart attack patients take advantage of cardiac rehabilitation programs. This is regrettable, as an analysis shows that most rehab programs reduce the risk of death or recurrence of a heart attack.
The Importance of Pulse Pressure
November 30, 2005
Next time you have your blood pressure checked, pay attention to the difference between the systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom) numbers. This value is the pulse pressure, which can help predict your risk of future cardiovascular disease..
Dont Stop Taking Your Statin!
October 25, 2005
What happens if you don't take your statin drug regularly? A new Canadian study has shown a fairly dramatic effect on the occurrence of heart attacks and unstable angina.
How to Avoid a Heart Attack, Wherever You Live
September 26, 2005
A global study - 267 centers, in 52 countries, across 7 continents - shows that the risk factors for a first heart attack are pretty universal. Nine of them account for over 90% of the risk worldwide, and they are all potentially modifiable.
Is White-Coat Hypertension Harmless?
September 12, 2005
"It's probably only white-coat hypertension" you may be told. However, newer results suggest that white-coat hypertension should be taken seriously - people with it are more likely to get full-blown high blood pressure.
An Overview of Congested Heart Failure
September 2, 2005
Congestive heart failure is the main cause, or a contributor, in nearly 53,000 US deaths each year. Here's an overview of the condition, outlining the mechanism, cause, and possible risk factors.
Raise Your PUFA and Live Longer
May 25, 2005
Baby Boomers can reduce their mortality if they eat more MUFA & PUFA (olive and canola oil, vegetable oils), and less SAFA (egg yolk, dairy, meats). Find out why in this article . . .
White Blood Cell Counts and Heart Attacks
May 4, 2005
More findings are emerging to support the concept that inflammation is an integral part of atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. The latest is a link between heart attacks and raised white blood cell counts . . .
A Drink or Two Is Probably OK
March 24, 2005
There's further evidence that low to moderate alcohol intake is linked to health benefits - in this case, a reduced occurrence of the metabolic syndrome, which can lead to a heart attack or type 2 diabetes.
Once Again, Do You Know Your CRP?
February 11, 2005
Two new studies show that a high CRP level is just as important as a high LDL cholesterol level in assessing the risk of heart attack. And someone with a low LDL cholesterol level may, in fact, have a high CRP level . . .
The Atrial Fibrillation Epidemic
January 21, 2005
Obesity and atrial fibrillation (AF) are reaching epidemic proportions in the USA. Is there a connection? A new study indicates that there is, indeed, a possible link.
The Metabolic Syndrome and the Risk of Alzheimer's
December 22, 2004
Another piece has been added to the puzzle surrounding dementia. There's an association between the metabolic syndrome and the risk of cognitive decline. But there's more. High levels of markers for inflammation (CRP, IL-6) strengthen the link.
Even Newer Cholesterol Guidelines
September 3, 2004
Since 2001, when the National Cholesterol Education Program issued guidelines, results from 5 large studies of statins have led to even lower goals for LDL-cholesterol levels . . .
Secondhand Smoke is Also Lethal
September 3, 2004
Passive smoking - secondhand smoke - is associated with an increased death rate, and probably with an increased rate of heart attack, as shown by two recent studies.
Feeling Faint? You Should Have Drunk Some Water!
July 2, 2004
People with a tendency to faint easily may have an 'imbalance of their autonomic nervous system'. Now a simple measure - drinking two glasses of water - offers a measure of protection from fainting in susceptible persons.
Watch the Trans Fatty Acids - They Can Do Harm!
June 18, 2004
Increased dietary trans fatty acid intake seems to cause increased evidence of chronic inflammation in the body. This may explain why too many trans fatty acids in the diet are related to increased coronary artery disease and diabetes . . .
Eat More Fish for Irregular Heartbeat?
June 4, 2004
Eating deep-sea fish has been associated with a reduction in cardiac death rates, probably due to prevention of irregular ventricular contraction. A German study has found the possible link - polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) can apparently act as 'anti-arrhythmic agents'.
Losing Weight Has Hidden Health Benefits
June 4, 2004
Losing weight by dieting has obvious benefits on health. Now there's a new one - blood tests show that it can lower several markers for chronic inflammation.
Should We Put Statins in the Drinking Water?
May 19, 2004
If some is good, is more better? It seems so, when it comes to the statin drugs. Two studies have shown greater benefits of statin therapy when the cholesterol-lowering effect is increased.
Your Waistline Can Tell You a Lot About Your Health Risk
May 7, 2004
The humble tape measure can possibly tell you more about your health risks than the calculations needed to determine your BMI (body mass index) . . . .
Chest Pain? Dial 911, or Drive to Hospital?
April 8, 2004
Maybe it's quicker to drive to hospital than to call for an ambulance, but there are considerable advantages in making the emergency call (911), rather than using private transport . . .
Exercise for Heart Failure
March 26, 2004
A British analysis of nine well-controlled clinical studies of patients with chronic heart failure has shown that an exercise regimen has significant benefits on survival and the time without the need for hospitalization.
Cholesterol: Size Does Matter (1)
December 4, 2003
Longevity is partly inherited. And the study summarized here shows that one of the genes involved may work by regulating the size of lipoprotein cholesterol particles. Larger cholesterol particles are linked to a reduced risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks . . . .
Cholesterol: Size Does Matter (2)
December 4, 2003
A pilot study of intravenous injections of a modified lipoprotein complex that resembles HDL has produced a rapid reduction in the atheroma that characterizes coronary atherosclerosis. This may be due to the larger HDL particles, which carry away cholesterol and other constituents of atheroma. . .
Exercise: A Necessary Component in a Program for Vascular Health - Part XVI
November 6, 2003
In this article, Dr Ed takes 'couch potatoes' to task; he explains why there's no excuse for not doing some exercise, no matter how little, in view of it's obvious benefits on heart health.
Eat More Fiber for Your Heart's Health
October 15, 2003
A new study on the dietary habits of 10,000 people over a 19-year period has turned up some interesting results . . .
High Blood Levels of Omega-3s May Lower Your Risk of Death
October 15, 2003
A Finnish study of omega-3 fatty acids - those "healthy" fats found primarily in fish - reveals their potential to lower the risk of heart disease.
Combine Healthy Habits to Tackle Syndrome X
October 15, 2003
Syndrome X (the insulin-resistance or metabolic syndrome) is diagnosed from abnormal blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and/or body weight results. A study has been done to see if its ill-effects can be counteracted by exercise and diet . . . .
Lower Cholesterol Is a Fringe Benefit of High Calcium Intake
October 2, 2003
Many women (and men) keep their calcium intake fairly high to try and avoid osteoporosis. There's new evidence that this may have other benefits - a lower body weight, reduced body fat, and an improved cholesterol profile.
How Does the Mediterranean Diet Promote Longevity?
September 18, 2003
Research indicates that populations living in the Mediterranean region have lower rates of heart disease and death. This has been known for years. But what can be said with certainty today about the Mediterranean diet as currently consumed?
Note Down Your Numbers!
September 18, 2003
This is a companion article to "Know Your Numbers". It's intended to be something you can print out and use to note down your blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels. It also gives the desired, or target levels, for each of these tests.
Two Serious Effects of the Metabolic Syndrome
September 10, 2003
The metabolic syndrome - a collection of abnormal body measurements - is becoming more common. Having it raises the chances of developing not only heart disease, but also adult onset (type 2) diabetes, another condition that's seen more often today.
Control Your Risk Factors - They're Very Real
September 10, 2003
It's long been said the half of those who have a heart attack don't have any of the known risk factors. New analyses of large studies show, however, that this is a false assumption . . .
New Blood Pressure Guidelines Suggest Early Preventive Action
August 21, 2003
According to the latest blood pressure guidelines more people have high blood pressure, or are at risk of developing this dangerous condition. Lifestyle changes are the first line of defence.
Noise at Work and Blood Pressure
August 21, 2003
A Polish study shows that steelworkers exposed to higher noise levels at work have raised blood pressure readings ...
Steps Three and Four in Your Program to Promote Endothelial and Vascular Health - Article XV (Part 4 of 4)
August 7, 2003
Here are the final steps you should take, in order to stick to Dr Ed's instructions on combating atherosclerosis and defeating it.
Take a Pill Every Day and Live Longer?
July 25, 2003
Two British physicians, after analyzing over 750 clinical trial involving 400,000 patients, have proposed that a "Polypill" containing a statin drug, three blood pressure drugs (at half dose), folic acid, and aspirin might cut the rate of heart attack and stroke by over 80%, giving many people an extra 15 years of life.
High Blood Pressure in Europe Compared to the USA and Canada
July 18, 2003
High blood pressure leads to stroke, and both conditions are considerably more common in European countries than in the USA and Canada. If we know why this is so, we may be better able to prevent both conditions.
How to Promote and Maintain a Healthy Endothelium - Article XV (Part 3 of 4)
July 18, 2003
This third part of Dr Ed's article on preventing, stopping, and even reversing atherosclerosis, offers the first two steps in a program that you can undertake, starting today . . . . .
Low Testosterone Levels Linked to Atherosclerosis
July 4, 2003
More and more older people are taking testosterone, without good evidence of its benefits. Here's a study that shows that low testosterone levels in diabetics are linked to the development of atherosclerosis, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Nitric Oxide and Vascular Health - Article XV (Part 2 of 4)
June 27, 2003
In this, the second part of Dr Ed's article on reversing the atherosclerotic disease process in your arteries, the important role of nitric oxide (NO) in blood vessel dilatation is explained.
You Can Prevent and Roll-Back Atherosclerosis, and Decrease Your Risk for Heart Attack and Stroke - Article XV (Part 1 of 4)
June 5, 2003
We now know you can not only prevent, but also reverse atherosclerosis, to a certain extent. In this article - the first of four - Dr Ed explains how atherosclerosis occurs, and why it's possible to reverse the process . . .
High Blood Pressure: New Guidelines Are Out!
June 5, 2003
New blood pressure guidelines - the first since 1997 - have been issued by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The new guidelines are a little stricter, but also clearer regarding the best treatment at different levels. They are important reading for everyone.
Statins Work Even When the Cholesterol Isn't Raised
May 22, 2003
Statins lower total and LDL cholesterol, and reduce fatal and non-fatal heart attacks and strokes. Now it's becoming clear that these benefits are independent of the initial lipid levels . . . .
Weight Loss Equals Better Blood Pressure Control
May 16, 2003
US scientists report that modest weight loss over a 9-year spell helped a group of people with hypertension to lower their blood pressure, some to a normal, healthy range.
Cereal Fiber Tied to Better Heart Health
May 16, 2003
A diet change as small as switching from white bread to whole-wheat bread may lower your risk of heart disease. . . .
Which is More Important - the Upper or Lower BP Number?
April 11, 2003
When you measure your blood pressure, which number is more important - the upper (systolic) or the lower (diastolic) value? The answer may depend on whether you're a man or a woman . . . .
Know Your Numbers!
March 28, 2003
For a proper understanding of your health, you must know how you stand compared to the normal, healthy condition. Here you can learn about normal blood pressure, blood cholesterol (and other lipids), and blood sugar levels.
What is Angina and Coronary Artery Disease?
March 28, 2003
We've extracted some of the information on coronary artery disease and angina from our Disease Digest, to provide a 'primer' on the causes and symptoms . . . .
Close Attention to Health Goals Benefits People with Diabetes
March 28, 2003
New research shows that aggressive control of blood pressure, blood lipid levels, and blood sugar levels can markedly cut diabetes-related cardiovascular complications.
Regular Alcohol Intake Cuts the Heart Attack Risk
February 14, 2003
Here is more evidence that moderate alcohol consumption may be beneficial to heart health. And the frequency of drinking may be more important than the type of alcohol.
What's the Best Diet For Preventing Heart Disease?
January 17, 2003
Harvard researchers say that following a 'heart healthy' diet requires more than just cutting back on fat and cholesterol.
High Blood Pressure: Are the Older Drugs Better?
January 8, 2003
A large clinical trial has demonstrated that diuretics ("water pills"), which are an older and cheaper form of treatment, may be superior in managing high blood pressure than newer classes of drugs (calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors).
Physical Fitness and Heart Disease in Men
December 20, 2002
How much exercise is enough for "heart health"? Is more better? How much is too much? Two recent studies provide some answers.
Your Heart's Clock Regulates Its Rhythm - Part XIV
December 6, 2002
Have you noticed your heart skipping beats or racing? Skipped beats and extra beats often cause your chest to thump and are referred to as palpitations. Should you be concerned? Read this new article from Dr Ed to get the answer.
Should CRP Testing be Routine?
November 28, 2002
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a test that shows if there is inflammation in the body. Now it's been found to be better than LDL-cholesterol levels for predicting cardiovascular events, such as a heart attack. Should it be added to the routine cardiovascular screen?
Another Look at Exercise and Heart Health
November 14, 2002
An overview of more than 200 studies of exercise and heart health in people with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure has been published, and the findings - clear-cut benefits of exercise - are summarized here.
An Antidepressant for Depression After a Heart Attack?
October 25, 2002
One in five people who have a heart attack experience fairly severe depression, which may lead to a delayed or complicated outcome. Antidepressants drugs haven't been used in the past, as they may have a toxic effect on the heart. But now a study has shown that one of the newer types of antidepressants doesn't have such an effect, and can help treat the depression...
Women at Cardiovascular Risk
October 7, 2002
There is a myth that coronary heart disease, often related to high blood pressure, is a minor problem for women, compared with men. This review sets the record straight....
3-Cigarettes-a-Day Double a Woman's Risk
September 5, 2002
More and more women smoke today, and many, if not most of them, are well aware of the risks involved. They'll say, "I only smoke 2 or 3 a day" or, "I don't inhale", and reason that they are not at increased risk. But they are . . . . .
Do You Know Your CRP?
September 5, 2002
C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are becoming as important as cholesterol levels in assessing the risk of coronary artery disease, which can lead to a heart attack. And CRP levels seem to be closely related to one's cardiorespiratory fitness . . . .
Women's Risks of Coronary Heart Disease
August 23, 2002
For years, it was supposed that women didn't have heart attacks. However, since learning that two women have an MI for every three in men, researchers have been looking at possible sex differences in the known risk factors for coronary heart disease.
Being Overweight Increases Your Risk of Heart Failure
August 23, 2002
It's well known that really obese people are likely to die prematurely from congestive heart failure, but how big is the risk for those of us who are "just a little bit overweight"? A new study has provided the answer.
Nuts Linked to Heart Health in Men
August 8, 2002
More evidence that nuts can be part of a heart healthy diet . . .
An Aspirin a Day Keeps the Doctor Away, Doesn't it?
August 1, 2002
Many people take an aspirin a day to ward off heart attacks. But there are no effective treatments without some risks. Is daily aspirin be right for you?
A Produce-Rich Diet Helps Keep Blood Pressure in Check
July 16, 2002
Pass the peas, please . . . a new study says that a produce-rich diet can help keep blood pressure in check.
Today, Women's Angioplasty Results Equal Men's
June 28, 2002
Fifteen years ago women had much poorer results than men after coronary angioplasty. Today, the situation is very different. Results are virtually the same for both men and women, even though women still have more risk factors when they have the procedure...
Get Your Heart Pumping to Lower Blood Pressure
June 20, 2002
Regular exercise is a major key to keeping high blood pressure in check.
What's Your Blood Pressure and How Do Blood Pressure Medications Work? - Part XIII
June 14, 2002
This article from Dr Ed tells you all you want to know about high blood pressure, in a readily understandable way. It's essential reading for all sufferers from hypertension . . . . . . .
A High Level of Triglycerides? (Part II)
June 14, 2002
This is the second part of Dr Anita's review of elevated serum triglycerides, what a raised level may mean, and how you can cope with it.
Atrial Fibrillation -- What's New
June 4, 2002
People quite often complain of a fluttering in their chest, or that their heart is beating erratically. Atrial fibrillation is the commonest cause of an irregular heartbeat. Here's a summary of what's known about the condition, and its present-day management.
A High Level of Triglycerides? (Part I)
May 27, 2002
Among your blood test readings you have no doubt also seen an item called "triglycerides", and especially if they have been marked as elevated, you will have asked yourself what these substances actually are, what their role in your body is, but, most of all, what excess triglycerides may mean for your health.
Cholesterol Linked to Memory Skills in Seniors
May 16, 2002
Some scientists think that high blood cholesterol levels may contribute to the development of dementia in older adults.
Food Shopping? Add Fish to Your List
May 16, 2002
Several weekly servings of fish - a prime source of omega-3 fatty acids - seem to help protect US doctors and nurses (both men and women) from heart disease.
ARBs Do More Than Just Lower Blood Pressure
May 7, 2002
The latest blood pressure lowering drugs - the ARBs - are relatives of the ACE inhibitors. Are there important differences between the two drug classes in their effectiveness and side effects?
Statins May Help More Than Just the Heart
April 30, 2002
Women who take "statin" drugs to lower their cholesterol may be getting an additional health benefit -- a lower risk of bone fractures.
Is It Risky to Stop Statins?
April 23, 2002
Stopping statins abruptly in people with acute coronary artery symptoms (e.g. chest pain at rest) doesn't always produce the best result . . . . . .
Syndrome X -- Again!
February 15, 2002
The metabolic syndrome -- syndrome X -- is much more widespread than we previously thought, at least in the USA. The increased risks of diabetes and heart attacks that it carries makes it urgent for us to get the problem under control as quickly as possible . . .
Will You Have a Heart Attack as You Age? You Can Identify and Reduce Your Risk! - Part XII
February 1, 2002
The latest article in this series explains the way in which heart attacks come about, how the condition of your coronary arteries can be assessed, and what your risk factors for coronary heart disease are. There's also a simple method to calculate your risk of having a heart attack some time in the next ten years...
Omega-3s, the Heart-Healthy Fats
January 11, 2002
After years of telling consumers to eat less fat, health professionals are now advising them to eat more of one particular kind -- omega-3 fats, which seem to play a role in the prevention of heart disease.
Additional Blockade of Angiotensin in Chronic Heart Failure?
December 13, 2001
Hospitalization remains frequent in patients with heart failure despite recent progress in medical treatment with ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers. A large international clinical trial studied whether additional inhibition of the angiotensin system could further benefit patients with that disease.
When it's Important to Act in Time - Heart Attack
October 29, 2001
If you think you are having a heart attack, or a stroke, it's vital (this means life-saving!) to act in time. The US National, Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has launched a campaign to make sure everyone knows how to recognize the warning signs of a heart attack, and what to do...
Treating Your Raised Cholesterol Level
October 5, 2001
Many people think they have their cholesterol levels 'under control'. However, new guidelines from the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommend a much more aggressive target for lipid levels. The new target is based on calculations of the likelihood of coronary artery disease in relation to lipid levels. Find out your new target.
Good News About 'Good' Diets
September 26, 2001
A Harvard study provides more proof that a low-fat, produce-rich diet helps protect women from heart disease.
Excess Weight Adds Health Problems, Too
August 31, 2001
It's not just a cosmetic concern - being overweight makes it much harder to stay healthy.
The Inner Layer Of Your Aging Blood Vessels Is A Battlefield - Part XI
August 31, 2001
In article 10 of this Series, "How Badly Are Your Arteries Hardening With Aging?" we discussed large artery structure and function, and we explained why vascular aging is a risk factor for high blood pressure.
DASH to a Lower Cholesterol Level
August 31, 2001
A diet that provides plenty of produce and low-fat dairy foods seems to help control both blood pressure and cholesterol.
New, Simple Tests for Predicting Artery Disease
August 24, 2001
Most people know that a high blood cholesterol can mean future trouble for your arteries. Recently, however, newer tests are being used to try to improve the accuracy of such predictions. Among them are blood tests for evidence of mild but persistent inflammation, which has recently been recognized as a likely cause of progression of arterial disease. Are the new tests better? Read this article and find out.
How Badly Are Your Arteries Hardening With Aging? - Part X
August 24, 2001
Health care consumers, and physicians too, have been accustomed to the idea that "hardening of the arteries" occurs as one gets older. Until recently, it has been erroneously believed that this arterial stiffening is an inevitable component of "normal" aging and beyond an individual's control.
Managing More Than Just Diabetes
August 14, 2001
Does having more than one medical problem make it difficult to control diabetes? Not necessarily, say US doctors.
Try a Little TLC
August 10, 2001
TLC used to mean a form of therapy provided by nurses - Tender Loving Care. Nowadays, it stands for Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes - the things people must do if they are to avoid the effects of the metabolic syndrome, which is becoming so common in the USA...
Women: Consider Heart Healthy Changes Before the 'Change'
July 25, 2001
A new study points out the diet and lifestyle changes that women should consider now to reduce their risk of heart disease later in life.
Limiting salt lowers blood pressure in older adults
July 2, 2001
A new study takes a look at whether reducing salt intake effectively controls high blood pressure in older adults.
A raised uric acid isn't necessarily gout
July 2, 2001
An increase in the uric acid content of the blood is usually regarded as a sign that you have gout. However, this is not always the case. Researchers have analyzed a large group of people over a 16-year period, looking for a possible relationship between raised serum uric acid and serious cardiovascular disease.
Diabetes, high blood pressure and mild mental decline
July 2, 2001
Aggressive treatment to control high blood pressure and diabetes before age 60 can significantly reduce the risk of a decline in mental ability associated with these disorders, according to the results of a recently published large-scale study.
How to Avoid DVT- the "Economy Class Syndrome"
July 2, 2001
Going on vacation? Don't forget your stockings!
Should You Drink To Your 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.
A common type of heart failure in the elderly
April 10, 2001
Recently it's been realized that more than half the elderly patients with congestive heart failure have a normal functioning heart during contraction (systole) - it's a failure during the relaxation phase (diastole) that's at fault in their case. These patients have diastolic heart failure, a condition that is not yet well studied. Two studies summarized here have looked more closely at this common variety of heart.
Are Some Anti-inflammatory Drugs Bad For The Heart?
April 10, 2001
Seniors who take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are twice as likely to be admitted to hospital with congestive heart failure. And the odds are greater for those with a history of heart disease, according to an Australian study.
A Well-Rounded Exercise Program Offers the Most Benefits
April 10, 2001
If your doctor could give you a pill that would help you control your weight, give you more energy, reduce stress, and raise your spirits, would you take it? Regular exercise is just such a prescription.
Some are more sensitive to salt than others
March 19, 2001
A sensitivity to salt increases the risk of death as much as high blood pressure, according to a recent study.
Bypass surgery and mental performance
February 28, 2001
Coronary bypass surgery has saved many lives and improved many peoples' heart symptoms. However, the operation seems to cause some loss of mental function in elderly patients. How much decline, and for how long, has recently surfaced.
Modest Weight Loss Helps Control High Blood Pressure
February 19, 2001
New research shows that losing even a modest amount of excess weight--and keeping it off--can help control high blood pressure.
How low should you go?
February 19, 2001
Current research shows that a lower-sodium diet does help lower blood pressure in people with mild to moderate hypertension.
Regulating Dietary Sodium Without Sacrificing Flavor
February 19, 2001
While Americans are advised by various public health guidelines to take in no more than 2,400 milligrams of sodium a day, the national average is closer to 4,000 milligrams per person.
Depression: A Risk Factor for Heart Disease in Older People
February 12, 2001
Healthy older Americans who are depressed may have a higher risk for developing coronary heart disease and dying from all causes, according to the results of a new six-year study.
Can stressful marriages make heart disease worse for women?
February 12, 2001
Stressful marriages are never pleasant, but for those with heart disease, they can be deadly. While it is known that men's heart disease is worsened by work stress, it appears that for women, marital stress may have the same effect. A recent study in Sweden reveals that stressful cohabitation with a partner may increase the risk of recurrent heart attacks, the need for angioplasty or bypass surgery, or even death from coronary heart disease.
What Was Once Believed To Be Normal Aging Is Now Considered To Be Dangerous! - Part IX
January 24, 2001
Your heart and blood vessels undergo changes with aging and these changes are risk factors for age-associated diseases. Previous articles (one through eight) in this series have explained how aging 'itself' affects your heart.
Why getting angry is dangerous
January 22, 2001
It's known that anger and hostility can lead to heart attacks. A new study has now shown how this probably occurs by increasing levels of a substance in the blood, homocysteine.
Choosing a 'Heart Healthy' Spread
January 22, 2001
Which is better for you, butter or margarine? The "heart healthiest" diet limits both.
Watching TV can be dangerous
January 15, 2001
It's well known that some activities can act as the final straw for someone prone to a heart attack. Up to now, you've probably thought that sitting in front of a TV set was a pretty harmless occupation. It depends, however, what you are watching.
Blood pressure treatment based on daily body rhythm?
December 15, 2000
The day-night cycle is the dominant daily rhythm, and there are a number of diseases that are affected by it. Some heart conditions show a daily rhythm, to a greater or lesser degree. Angina pectoris, heart attack, sudden death, and stroke are all more common in the morning after waking up than at other times of the day or night.
A paradox, a paradox...
December 15, 2000
Taking part in a regular exercise program is likely to improve your chances of living longer. However, we also hear reports that vigorous exercise can provoke a heart attack. How can we reconcile these two pieces of information?
Messages Transmitted From The Brain Fine Tune The Heart - Part VIII
November 22, 2000
In the previous article, we learned that a division of the central nervous system, the autonomic nervous system, sends signals to the heart to acutely modify its behavior by releasing messenger substances called neurotransmitters.
Studies Back the Benefits of a 'Heart Healthy' Diet
November 7, 2000
Two Harvard studies add more weight to the argument that, when it comes to heart disease, diet does make a difference.
A Healthy Lifestyle Can Reduce a Woman's Heart Disease Risk
October 30, 2000
A healthy lifestyle that includes diet, exercise, and not smoking can significantly reduce women's risk for heart disease, according to this study recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
High Cholesterol Often Goes Undetected
October 22, 2000
An article in a recent issue of the British Medical Journal warns physicians that those people at greatest risk for heart attack may have dangerously high blood levels of cholesterol.
Brain-Heart Communication Withers With Aging - Part VII
October 17, 2000
Reality is far more incredible than fiction! The communication between the human brain and the heart is a striking example. This article will show you how the brain communicates with the heart through the nervous system.
Drinking Habits and Risk of Heart Disease
October 2, 2000
Imagine a physician encouraging patients to exercise, stop smoking, and 'have a glass of wine' to protect against heart disease. A daily drink has been shown to lower the risk for cardiovascular disease.
Garlic Has a Modest Effect on High Cholesterol Levels
October 2, 2000
Garlic has received a lot of attention in the last several years, much of it focused on its effect on serum cholesterol. Scores of scientists have explored this issue, but an article in the most recent issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
Syndrome X - complicated, but important
September 18, 2000
Some men with high blood pressure, although being treated with blood pressure lowering drugs, still have heart attacks at an unexpectedly high rate. It now seems that at least some of these men have what is known as 'syndrome X', also called the insulin-resistant syndrome.
Folate Part of a Heart Healthy Diet
September 7, 2000
When in doubt, go for the greens. An article in the August 29 issue of Circulation adds to the body of evidence that demonstrates that a folate-rich diet that includes foods like dark green.
Fish Oil Supplements May Promote Heart Health
September 7, 2000
Move over HDL and LDL. There is another fat to consider--triglycerides. In fact, triglycerides are hardly rare: they are the major storage form of fat in the body and account for most of the fat from food we eat.
Diet and lifestyle changes can lower heart disease rates in women
September 7, 2000
First the good news: improvements in diet and lifestyle may be responsible for a decrease in heart disease in American women. The bad news is that increasing rates of obesity are having a negative impact on health.
The Essence of the Heartbeat Changes with Aging - Part VI
September 6, 2000
You're watching an episode of ER. Suddenly one of the actors yells, 'CODE BLUE', meaning in this case that a patient's heart has stopped beating.
Diet and Exercise Help Keep High Blood Pressure in Check
August 24, 2000
Dieting and exercise are often the first treatments prescribed for people with mild or moderate high blood pressure (hypertension). A new study published in Archives of Internal Medicine.
Doctors Say 'Apple' Is Not the Shape for Men...or for Women
August 24, 2000
Weight gain that settles in the abdominal area--fat that some people call a 'spare tire'--is usually thought of as a problem common to middle-aged men. But an article in a recent issue.
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.
Psyllium Powder Can Help to Lower Cholesterol Levels
August 24, 2000
'A skinless chicken breast, add mustard hold the mayonnaise, salad not French fries, and low-fat dressing'. The good news is your dietary efforts have paid off and your cholesterol level has dropped.
Soy As Part of a 'Heart Healthy' Diet
August 24, 2000
Have you picked up a package of tofu lately? If you haven't, you may be missing out on some important health information. Last fall, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
How Good a Pump is Your Older Heart? - Part III
August 2, 2000
Oxygen is needed for the body's cells to survive and function. The heart is the slave to your body's oxygen needs because it must pump your blood, which is the source.
The Older Heart Has Trouble Pumping Blood During Exertion - Part V
July 31, 2000
In the preceding article 'Your Older Heart May Cause You to Feel Short of Breath', we compared the circulatory system to a 'great continuous canal'. You learned that the.
I get dizzy!
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. A recent study has analyzed the likely factors associated with dizziness in people aged 72 or older.
Limit Sodium To Lower Blood Pressure
July 12, 2000
Hold the salt and help your heart, say the authors of a recently completed study on the effect of sodium intake on hypertension (high blood pressure). Harvard researchers reported at a recent meeting of the American Society.
Treating high cholesterol levels in the very old?
July 12, 2000
Until recently, it was thought that there was no point in trying to lower raised cholesterol levels in people over 75. However, newer studies show this reluctance is wrong.
Your Older Heart May Cause You To Feel Short of Breath - Part IV
July 5, 2000
As you get older you might notice that you become short of breath doing activities that caused you no distress at a younger age. To understand why this is happening you need to understand a little bit.
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.
Protective effect of a blood pressure drug in diabetics
May 25, 2000
The news recently contained reports of a study in which a drug of the ACE-inhibitor type (ramipril) produced quite dramatic results in people at risk of heart or blood vessel disease .
How to eat if you have cardiovascular disease
May 25, 2000
Numerous studies have shown that nutrition is one of the most important factors in the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) that are susceptible to influence. A healthy .
How to cope with fats
May 25, 2000
Fats and oils supply the body with highly concentrated energy. One gram of fat supplies approximately 9 kcal of energy per gram. That is more than twice as much as the energy .
How to eat if you have high blood pressure
May 25, 2000
In more than 90% of people with hypertension, there is no obvious organic cause for the increase in pressure. This is the most common form of high blood pressure and is called .
'Why Does Aging Cause Your Exercise Ability to Deteriorate?' - Dr. Ed - Part II
May 25, 2000
During exertion, which would be any type of exercise that requires the body to work hard, such as walking up a flight of stairs or running, your heart must increase its pumping ability .
How to eat to lower your cholesterol
May 25, 2000
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance which performs numerous important functions in the human body. It is a component of cell walls and is used by the body to make various.
Weight lifting for aging hearts?
May 24, 2000
We have previously emphasized the merits of resistance (strength) exercises in these pages, along with those of aerobic (endurance) exercises. The latter are usually done to help lose.
How to choose low-fat food
May 12, 2000
Funny as it may sound, fat reduction actually starts in the head! Anyone who for health reasons wants to reduce the amount of fat in his or her daily diet needs to know what low-fat .
Lessened thyroid activity and heart attacks
April 27, 2000
The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that releases hormones that control how fast the cells in the body perform their functions. It has long been known that if this gland is obviously under-active, there is often an accompanying raised blood cholesterol level and high blood .
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 .
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.
Infections and arterial disease?
January 4, 2000
The risk factors for atherosclerosis (narrowing or blockage of arteries due to fat deposits) - which can lead to heart attacks and stroke - are well known; they include high blood pressure, obesity, raised cholesterol levels and smoking.
Effects of smoking are not prevented by having a low cholesterol
January 4, 2000
Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis (narrowing or blockage of arteries due to fat deposits), which often leads to heart attacks and stroke.
Is it the grape, or the wine?
October 12, 1999
By now, most people are aware of the health benefits of moderate consumption of wine. We have discussed the studies supporting this elsewhere on these pages.
Poor control of high blood pressure?
October 11, 1999
High blood pressure, although it often causes no symptoms by itself, is a main risk factor for heart attack and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the United States.
Are cigars just as bad?
June 29, 1999
Cigar smoking is increasing in the United States, mainly in young and middle-aged men, but also among teenagers and women.
More reasons to exercise
June 29, 1999
The benefits of physical activity for the elderly have long been recognized. Three recent publications, summarized here, reinforce the advantages of being physically fit, with regard to your quality-of-life, health and long life.
Mediterranean Diet, Traditional Risk Factors, and the Rate of Cardiovascular Complications after Myocardial Infarction: Final Report of the Lyon Diet Heart Study.
June 29, 1999
Heart attack patients can reduce their risk for a second attack by consuming a lowfat Mediterranean-type diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish and that uses from olive and canola and as the primary source of fat.
Resistance training - how much?
June 2, 1999
In recent years it has been recognized that resistance training (weight training) can have significant health benefits - improved bone density, glucose metabolism, weight control, and preventing lower back problems. Two experts in the field have recently summarized the available guidelines on strength training - e.g. the best type, duration and frequency.
Cholesterol-lowering drugs for diabetics after a heart attack ?
April 12, 1999
Diabetic patients are at risk of heart attacks to a greater degree than healthy people. Raised blood cholesterol levels are also a risk factor for heart attacks, and a large study completed recently has reported on the treatment of patients who have already had one heart attack with a drug to lower cholesterol levels, even though cholesterol levels were not raised in these patients. The study summarized here is an analysis of the patients from this study who were diabetic or who had abnormal glucose tolerance.
Artery wall thickness and the risk of MI or stroke
February 26, 1999
Using a non-invasive ultrasound technique, it is possible to measure the thickness of the carotid artery wall. What use is such a measurement? Previous studies have shown that increased carotid wall thickness is representative of atherosclerosis in other arteries, and the occurrence of cardiovascular disease. A new study has now looked for a possible connection between carotid artery thickening and heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI) or stroke in people over 65 who don't have existing cardiovascular disease.
More on artery wall thickness measurement
February 26, 1999
We have already described the use of ultrasound to measure the thickness of carotid artery walls, and its value in identifying elderly people at risk of a heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI) and stroke. Another recent study, summarized here, looks at the possible connection between the thickness of the inner lining of the carotid artery wall and positive results on treadmill exercise testing. The results suggest that this measurement can help identify those people without symptoms who may however be at risk for coronary artery disease (CAD), without subjecting them to a stress test.
Exercise Programs - a Primer
February 10, 1999
Older people are repeatedly told about the benefits of physical exercise - how it can help in losing weight, lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, lower blood sugar and slow down osteoporosis. Unfortunately, practical advice is often lacking. The US National Institute on Aging has published a 110-page booklet to help inform people on this subject, and have made a version of it available on the Internet. This summary is intended to introduce the most important topics, giving links to the corresponding pages on the WEB site.
Treadmill or weights machine (or both)?
January 26, 1999
Older people are being urged, quite correctly, to take more physical exercise. The benefits of increased activity are becoming more obvious, thanks to well-conducted studies in a number of conditions. Unfortunately, one is encouraged to "exercise more", without further guidance.
Risk of stopping high blood pressure medication
January 6, 1999
High blood pressure (hypertension) is the most important risk factor for intracerebral (within-brain) hemorrhage (ICH), one form of stroke. About a third of all people having this form of stroke die within 30 days, and many of the rest are left with serious permanent disability. It is thought that raised blood pressure causes weakening of the walls of the small arteries in the brain, so that they are more likely to rupture. A team in Australia has done a study to see what are the important risk factors in hypertensive patients who have such a stroke.
Reversing coronary heart disease without surgery
January 6, 1999
Vigorous non-invasive treatment (diet, drugs, exercise etc) has been shown to interrupt, or even reverse, coronary artery disease, and thus prevent myocardial infarction (MI) and sudden death. Dr Lance Gould, a recognized expert, has summarized the scientific evidence showing how this is possible in an on-line conference.
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