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Heart Health Archive

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Another risk related to atrial fibrillation

A 2024 study suggests that for people with atrial fibrillation (afib), heart failure may be a more common complication than stroke. People with afib should be vigilant for the early warning signs of heart failure, such as feeling tired and winded.

All types of alcohol appear to raise blood pressure

A 2024 study suggests that the more alcohol people drink-whether they imbibe beer, wine, or hard liquor-the higher their blood pressure.

Counting steps as good as time tracking for monitoring heart health

Advice about the amount of physical activity required to stave off heart disease and other chronic ailments is usually expressed as a time-based goal. But counting steps may be just as useful, according to a 2024 study.

Chest pain: A heart attack or something else?

Chest pain is an indicator of a possible heart attack, but it may also be a symptom of another condition or problem. The type and location of the pain can help doctors determine what is causing it.

Physical activity, the brain, and a possible link to better heart health

Physical activity lowers cardiovascular disease risk in part by reducing stress-related activity in the brain, according to a 2024 study.

Heart failure might be the most common complication of atrial fibrillation

A large observational study published in 2024 suggests that stroke isn't the biggest risk of atrial fibrillation (an abnormal heart rhythm condition). The biggest risk seems to be heart failure, a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively.

Cardiovascular risks soar among daily cannabis users

A 2024 study suggests using cannabis weekly may be associated with an increase in people's risks of heart attack and stroke, and the risks rise dramatically with more frequent use.

Sitting less may help lower blood pressure

Older adults might be able to lower their blood pressure by reducing their sitting time by as little as 30 minutes per day, according to a 2024 study.

Why do some heart drugs cost so much?

Health insurance companies sometimes require prior authorization for new, expensive medications. The high price patients pay for these drugs is related to complexities in health insurance coverage.

Artificial intelligence in cardiology

The American Heart Association's first-ever scientific statement on artificial intelligence (A.I.) in cardiology explores how the technology may improve how doctors prevent, detect, and treat heart disease. For example, A.I. data from patch monitors may predict who will develop potentially serious heart rhythms. Applying A.I. tools to a single chest x-ray may predict a person's risk of heart attack and other serious health problems.

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