Heart Disease Archive
Articles
How much exercise does it take to avoid heart problems in your 70s?
In a study published online Feb. 14, 2022, by the journal Heart, people ages 65 or older who exercised at least 20 minutes per day—especially men ages 70 to 75—had fewer heart attacks and a lower risk of premature death, compared with people who didn't exercise.
Rethinking obesity
Misperceptions and biases about obesity can derail progress against this common disease, which affects 42% of Americans and is linked to many serious health problems, including heart disease. Bias and stigma against people with obesity is widespread, often due to a belief that poor choices and lack of motivation are the only causes. But a number of interconnected factors are involved, including an obesity-promoting environment, lack of physical activity, genetics, insufficient sleep, mental health issues, and certain medications.
Social isolation and loneliness add up to higher heart risks
Social isolation and loneliness are other significant risk factors for cardiovascular disease in older women.
Women's heart symptoms not so different after all
Women have long been told to watch for "atypical" signs of heart attack, but new guidance reveals that heart symptoms are not as different in men and women as once believed. Women are also more likely to have a less-common subtype of heart failure, and reproductive history should be considered when assessing women's heart risks. Anyone experiencing chest pain should call 911, mention chest pain before other symptoms, and bear in mind that other chest sensations may signal heart attack.
How cardiology experts fight heart disease
Doctors advise that the best ways to lower risk for heart disease is to exercise, eat right, and adopt healthy lifestyle habits, like stress management, social engagement, and adequate sleep. But what do cardiology doctors do to practice what they preach? Three Harvard cardiologists share their heart-healthy habits and how they've overcome the same challenges their patients face.
Mammograms may help reveal cardiovascular risk
Postmenopausal women whose screening mammograms show signs of calcification in their breast arteries may have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Possible causes of an enlarged heart
An enlarged heart, or cardiomegaly, can result from a range of conditions, including high blood pressure, inherited heart diseases, or problems with the heart's valves.
High resting heart rate predicts heart risk in women at midlife
A study based on data from the Women's Health Initiative suggests that a high resting heart rate is an indicator of risk of heart attack in middle-aged women.
Want a healthier heart? Seriously consider skipping the drinks
No amount of alcohol, including red wine, is good for the heart, according to a policy brief from the World Heart Federation. Drinking, even in moderation, increases the risk for heart-related conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, stroke, cardiomyopathy (a disease of the heart muscle), aortic aneurysm (a dangerous bulge in the wall of the aorta), and atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm). People who drink regularly might benefit from reducing their intake.
Adding more olive oil to your diet may help prevent an early death
Olive oil, when consumed as a regular part of the diet, may help protect against an early death and specifically against deaths related to cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurogenerative conditions, and respiratory conditions.

Respiratory health harms often follow flooding: Taking these steps can help

Tips to leverage neuroplasticity to maintain cognitive fitness as you age

Can white noise really help you sleep better?

Celiac disease: Exploring four myths

What is prostatitis and how is it treated?

What is Cushing syndrome?

Exercises to relieve joint pain

Think your child has ADHD? What your pediatrician can do

Foam roller: Could you benefit from this massage tool?

Stepping up activity if winter slowed you down
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