Cardiology Archives

Processed and Red Meat Increases Risk for All-Cause Mortality, CVD Incidence

A US study has found that increased intake of red meat is associated with an increased risk for all-cause mortality in adults.

Impact of BMI on the Outcomes of Intensive LDL-C Lowering Therapy

Patients receiving intensive low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol-lowering therapy may have better clinical outcomes when their body mass index is normal vs high.

Collaboration Between Medical Specialty Societies and Charitable Clinics Improves Health of Vulnerable Patient Groups

An ACC initiative in North Carolina aims to provide uninsured cardiac patients with heart medications free of charge.

Working Long Hours Increases Risk of Masked and Sustained Hypertension

Working >40 hours per week is associated with an increased risk for masked and sustained hypertension in white-collar workers, a study in Hypertension reports.

Can a Biomarker Predict Adverse Outcomes in Chronic Heart Failure Patients?

In general, significantly greater NPY levels were observed in women, patients with diabetes, and patients with hypertension.

Proposed Decision Pathway for Admission Into Cardiac Intensive Care Units

Researchers propose a set of detailed criteria to aid practitioners in determining the appropriateness of CICU admissions stratified by goals of care, quality of care required, and risk for clinical deterioration.

Was Beethoven’s Music Literally Heartfelt?

Could it be that when Ludwig van Beethoven composed some of the greatest masterpieces of all time that he was quite literally following his heart?

Death During Sex

Over-activity of the sympathetic nervous system (which controls ejaculation as well as the actions of the heart and blood vessels) can bring on sudden death due to cardiac arrest during or shortly after sexual activities. In 2011, Dr. Issa Dahabreh, affiliated with Tufts Medical Center in Boston, conducted an analysis of 14 studies along with a colleague, Jessica Paulus, to quantify the risk of having a heart attack or sudden cardiac death brought about by sex. The team of doctors discovered that people are 2.7 times more likely to have a heart attack either during or shortly after sex compared to when they are inactive. However, they point out that the period of risk is brief, that is, either during the act itself or about 1 to 2 hours after sexual activity. They go on to report that individual risk is minimal. The researchers further highlight the fact that other studies have shown that regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart attacks or sudden cardiac death by 30%.

Cardiology