Cardiology

A new study led by researchers at King’s College London, in collaboration with the University of Nottingham, suggests that chronic inflammation may link frailty, social disadvantage and increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.

A multi-institution team of investigators report that adults who later develop cardiovascular disease show declining physical activity levels beginning roughly 12 years before their event, with the gap versus their healthy peers persisting long afterward.

There is broad consensus that the overall body of evidence shows lowering LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol provides both statistically significant and clinically meaningful benefits in treating and preventing cardiovascular disease. Often referred to as the “bad” cholesterol, elevated levels of LDL can clog arteries and significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Two university hospitals are pioneering new ways to expand lifesaving heart transplants for adults and babies—advances that could help recover would-be heart donations that too often go unused.

A simple digital photograph of the back of the eye can predict a major cardiovascular event—such as a heart attack or stroke—set to happen in the next decade with 70% accuracy, according to research supported by the British Heart Foundation and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

A new risk prediction tool developed by the American Heart Association (AHA) estimated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in a diverse patient cohort more accurately than current models, according to a recent study published in Nature Medicine.

The public, legislators, and media often group per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” which are found globally in countless products, into a single category. While certain PFAS are harmful for human and public health, new articles in Heart Rhythm emphasize that fluoropolymers, a specific class of PFAS, are not considered environmental contaminants and are indispensable for use in medical devices. Experts call for a balanced approach to protect both the environment and availability of essential medical technologies.

Cardiovascular diseases are a leading health concern in Hong Kong, prompting many to undergo regular heart check-ups for their early detection and management. Echocardiography, a key diagnostic imaging tool, plays a crucial role in assessing heart function, offering non-invasive insights into cardiovascular health and aiding in timely intervention.

A study led by scientists at King’s has revealed how the physical orientation of the heart inside the chest dramatically influences the electrical signals captured in an electrocardiogram (ECG)—a discovery that could pave the way for more personalized and accurate heart diagnostics.

Despite the global implementation of clinical algorithms designed to predict atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease based on traditional risk factors, the burden of this condition continues to rise. This is shown in a study by ACS researcher Nick Nurmohamed, in close collaboration with Mount Sinai.