Can statins lower dementia risk?
Several newspapers reported on a study which suggested that statins
reduce the risk of dementia as well as lowering cholesterol. This article
checks out these claims. Click HERE to read more .
Futuristic 3D heart scans speed up diagnosis?
This clever tech allows doctors to diagnose patients with suspected heart
disease by turning a CT scan into a personalised 3D image which is
analysed using AI. It has also saved the NHS millions of pounds. Click HERE to read more .
Iron supplements in early pregnancy may reduce heart disease in newborns
This study found that anaemia in the first 100 days of pregnancy increase the likelihood of congenital heart disease by 47%. click HERE to find out more.
Here’s some bubblingly good advice!
A recent study has identified 56 non-clinical risk factors associated with sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). One surprising way of reducing one’s risk of SCA, amongst many others, is to drink champagne and white wine, in moderation of course. For the full article click HERE.
British hospitals introduce a treatment which is a ‘gamechanger’ for heart failure patients
Next time you walk notch it up a bit!
Bananas may help to lower blood pressure
Bananas and broccoli are high in potassium. New research shows that
increasing potassium consumption as well as reducing sodium intake is
more effective at controlling high blood pressure. Click HERE. to read more.
Drug combination could prevent some heart attacks
Simple test could help to prevent heart attacks
Wearable patch can spot danger with unexplained fainting
The monitor which is usually used to diagnose the cause of unexplained fainting is only worn for 48 hours. In this trial, the wearable patch is worn for two weeks. It is much smaller and can even be worn in the shower. It produced better diagnostic results too. Click HERE to read more.
How often should you see your cardiologist?
This depends on the type of heart condition you have. For certain heart conditions some NHS hospitals are using a system called “Patient Initiative Follow Up” (PIFU) instead of offering routine follow-up appointments. To read more click HERE.
Heart medication and hay fever treatment
Why is England falling behind in life expectancy?
In a nutshell, it is due to expanding waistlines. Researchers are calling for urgent action to combat unhealthy lifestyles. See article HERE.
Should we eat more eggs?
Eggs were thought to be unhealthy due to their high cholesterol content but this study shows the reverse to be true. The good news is that cholesterol in foods is poorly absorbed by the body. It is saturated and trans fats which are responsible for raising blood cholesterol levels. Click HERE to read more. See article HERE.
Some plant oils much better than butter
Replacing butter with certain plant oils could significantly lower risk of mortality, a new study has shown. The study doesn’t suggest completely cutting butter out of your diet. Even a modest reduction in butter consumption, replacing it with oils derived from seeds or olives, may have significant benefits. See article HERE.
Put down the remote control and get moving!
Limiting time in front of the TV to less than an hour a day may lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. This is also true for people with a high genetic risk of type 2 diabetes. See article HERE.
Damaged hearts could be mended using small patches of lab grown heart muscle
A finger-prick blood test could save lives
New uses have been found for lateral flow tests, similar to the ones used for Covid-19 testing. A finger-prick blood test used to detect the deadliest type of stroke is being trialled by ambulance crews in Cambridgeshire. HERE.
It’s time to relax!
A study has looked at young adults and found an association between stress and strokes in younger women. It doesn’t prove that stress causes strokes but shows there is a link. Read the full article HERE.
Supplement, can improve heart failure outcomes in a new heart condition.
Teabags make water safer to drink
Researchers have found that tea leaves trap lead, cadmium and other contaminants during the brewing process. There is a link between heavy metals and cardiovascular disease. Different types of teas were studied. The longer the tea was brewed the greater the benefit. HERE.
Wholegrain foods can benefit your health
Including plenty of wholegrains in your diet can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. The article explains the different types of wholegrain foods and how to include them in your diet. Read the full article HERE.
“People find themselves in an (NHS) admin doom loop”
This quote is from a new research project looking at widespread problems with admin within the NHS. It demonstrates how poor admin is impacting large numbers of patients. Read the full article HERE.
Lifestyle and environment more important than genes
It has been known for a long time that risk factors such as smoking and physical activity influence our chances of developing health problems. This study shows just how important these risk factors are compared to our genetic makeup and that the government should be working on ways to reducing inequalities in the nation’s health. Read the full article HERE
You could save someone’s life
RevivR is a short, 15 minute, online CPR training course. It is easy to follow and includes video clips. All you need is a mobile phone for tablet. Find the course HERE.
Is cow’s milk good or bad for your heart?
Recent reports in some UK newspapers suggested that drinking cow’s milk could be bad for your heart. Closer analysis of the research indicates that this is in fact not the case. Even so, it is still important to swap full-fat products for skimmed or semi-skimmed to cut down on saturated fat.
Read the full article HERE
Flossing your teeth weekly is associated with a lower risk of stroke
Bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream causing inflammation in blood vessels which triggers blood clots which themselves can cause a stroke. Flossing reduces the buildup of bacteria between the teeth and thereby reduces inflammation.
Read full article HERE
Hidden fat in muscles leads to worse outcome from heart attacks
New findings suggest that measuring BMI (body mass index) or waist circumference is not enough to assess the risk of heart health issues.
To read full article HERE
Are your blood pressure readings wrong?
A new study shows that if the arm is in the wrong position when measuring blood pressure, the reading could be higher than it actually is. This could lead to people being treated for high blood pressure unnecessarily.
Read all about it HERE
What is most exciting in heart failure research right now?
Currently there is no cure for heart failure, but scientists are studying Mexican tetra fish which can completely heal their hearts. If they can figure out how this happens it may be possible to replicate this in the human body.
Read more here HERE
Drinking coffee in the morning may lower risk of heart-related death
New research shows that drinking coffee in the morning only may reduce your risk of dying by 16% and of dying from heart disease by 31%.
There was no reduction in risk for all-day drinkers compared to non-drinkers.
To see the full article see HERE
Research reveals why more men than women are diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Current guidelines for diagnosing this heart condition don’t take into account people’s age, sex or size. Once these factors are considered, identification of the condition in women is increased by 20% To see the full article see HERE
Heart health at your fingertips: the future of at-home ECGs
Electrocardiograms (ECGs) are vital tools for diagnosing heart conditions but are complex, requiring multiple electrodes and expert interpretation. UK scientists are developing a wearable device, like like a smart watch, and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to enable monitoring at home.To see the full article see HERE
Scientists say that loneliness may really be bad for your heart
A joint study between the University of Cambridge and Fudan University, in China, has discovered a connection between loneliness and raised levels of certain proteins which are found in the human body. These particular proteins are also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke – a good reason to come along to Heartlink social activities! To see the full article see HERE
Living heart valve can be grown in patient’s body
Existing heart valve replacements have major drawbacks. Patients have to take long-term medication to prevent rejection and blood clots. Children who have valve replacements need repeated procedures as the valves do not grow along with their bodies. A team, lead by Sir Magdi Yacoub, have created a mesh fibre implant which acts as a scaffold. Within months the body’s own cells grow within and gradually replace the fibre structure leaving behind a fully functional heart valve which grows with the patient throughout life. Human trials will begin in 2026.Join our community of volunteers and help us make a difference in the world. You can use your skills and talents to make a positive impact in your community. To see the full article see HERE
Sugary drinks are linked to millions of new diabetes and heart disease cases
A new study highlights a rise in global health inequalities with the fastest growth in type 2 diabetes and heart disease in Africa. Sugary drinks are digested quickly causing blood sugar spikes and providing little nutritional value. Over time they lead to weight gain and insulin resistance linked to diabetes and heart disease. To see the full article see HERE
Local NHS Trust gets £7M to provide earlier access to ground-breaking treatments
Using these funds our local Hospital Trust will set up a central hub for the new centre at Northwick Park Hospital but it will also be for the benefit of patients at Central Middlesex Hospital, Ealing Hospital and other local healthcare organisations. This is a diverse region of over 3 million people.
To read the full article please click HERE
A single cigarette takes 20 minutes off life expectancy
This means, if a smoker of 10 cigarettes a day quits for a week they could add a day to their life expectancy. On average, smokers who don’t quit, loose about a decade of life. Smoking is associated with an increase risk of heart disease, cancer and other illnesses.
To read the full article please click HERE
Early identification of patients with undiagnosed atrial fibrillation reduces stroke risk
A tool has been developed which uses machine learning to analyse medical data for red flags relating to undiagnosed atrial fibrillation (AF) - a common type of irregular heart beat. It can be used to identify patients who are at increased risk of AF allowing them to be treated with preventative drugs such as anticoagulants (blood thinners). Anticoagulant medication has prevented 9,000 strokes in England in the last five years.
To read the full article please click HERE
NHS trials blood pressure checks at dentists and opticians
High blood pressure is a risk factor for strokes and heart disease. It is estimated that 4.2 million people in the Uk have undiagnosed high blood pressure. It is estimated that around half of people checked at their dentist or optician wouldn’t have otherwise had their blood pressure checked
To read the full article please click HERE
Possibly some good news for wine drinkers
A team at the University of Barcelona have found that drinking a glass of red or white wine a day, while eating a Mediterranean diet, halves the risk of heart attack and strokes. Drinking more than this has the reverse effect.
To read the full article please click HERE
Here’s one for football fanatics!
A pop-up health hub at Everton Football Club has detected high blood pressure and other serious health conditions in some 20% of attendees at a mass screening.
To read the full article please click HERE
Irregular sleep pattern raises risk of stroke and heart attack
Previous studies have looked at the link between sleep duration and heart health outcomes. This study looks at the regularity of going to bed and waking up. It suggests that failure to stick to regular times for these factors may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack and heart failure by 26%.
To read the full article please click HERE
Government is concerned about health inequalities between men and women
At a men’s health summit, hosted by Arsenal and the Premier League with the charity Movember, Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, said that the UK government would help to tackle some of the “biggest issues affecting men of all ages”.
The life expectancy for men is nearly four years shorter than for women. According to the government men are disproportionately affected by a number of conditions including heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
To read the full article please click HERE
Less than four minutes of daily exertion may halve heart attack risk in women
A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine shows that getting your body moving for just 1.5 to 4 minutes per day can help to stave off cardiovascular disease in women who are unwilling or unable to take part in structured exercise or sport.
High intensity activities such as brisk stair climbing or carrying heavy shopping resulted in a 51% reduction in heart attacks and a 67% reduction in the likelihood of developing heart failure for women.
The reduction for men was much less significant.
To read the full article please click HERE
Anti-inflammatory diet: what you need to know
Inflammation is the body’s natural defence system. Acute inflammation occurs as a result of injuries and lasts for a few days. Chronic inflammation can be caused by persistent infections, autoimmune disorders or lifestyle factors such as smoking and obesity.
Chronic inflammation plays a key role in atherosclerosis build up inside blood vessels which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
Certain foods can influence inflammation. To find out how to improve your diet to reduce inflammation please click HERE
There is more than a grain of truth in this article about salt
Most of us consume far too much salt without realising it. Too much salt can cause high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes. We get used to the taste of salt in our food and may be reluctant to cut down on it for fear that our meals will taste bland. This article may be lengthy but includes simple and helpful advice about how to reduce your salt intake while keeping our food tasty.. Read about it by clicking HERE.
Does it matter what time you take your medicines?
Some medicines work better at a particular time of day. This article explains what time of day is best for commonly taken heart medicines with useful tips to help you to remember to take them at the right time. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or GP. Read about it by clicking HERE.
Are you getting enough sleep?
A study carried out in the USA, using fitness trackers, shows that 65% of people are getting insufficient sleep which may increase their risk of cardiovascular disease and other diseases. Although the results of this study are not absolutely conclusive, the findings point to the need to pay attention to the amount of sleep one is getting. Read about it by clicking HERE.
Adding five minutes a day of exercise can lower blood pressure
High blood pressure can lead to strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, kidney disease and many other health problems. It’s good news that only five minutes of exercise a day can make a difference. To read about it click HERE.
The pill that helps smokers quit
NHS England is hoping that a once-a-day pill, which reduces nicotine craving, will help smokers to quit. The pill is going to be offered to about 85,000 people a year in England. To read about it click HERE.
Do carbohydrates make you gain weight?
This article explains why carbs are an essential part of a healthy diet. Eating the right sort of carbs can help to lower cholesterol, help with weight loss and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes. See article HERE.
6 top tips for lowering your blood pressure
High blood pressure significantly increases the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. Click on THIS LINK to see read these useful tips.
NHS in England to trial Artificial Intelligence tool
Doctors are trialling a new AI (Artificial Intelligence) tool which can predict a patient’s risk of suffering or dying early from heart disease. It can detect problems in the structure of the heart that doctors can’t see. To learn more about this futuristic diagnostic aid click HERE.
How does stress effect your heart?
It is normal to experience stress from time to time. It can help us to cope with certain situations but if it becomes chronic it may have a negative effect on our heart and circulatory system. This article explains these unwanted effects but also suggests ways of dealing with stress. See article HERE.
Can natural alternatives lower cholesterol?
Statins, which are commonly prescribed by doctors, have been shown to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. This article compares the effectiveness of natural alternatives with statins. See article HERE.
Should we sit, stand or move around?
A study suggests standing desks, which have become extremely popular in recent years, don’t make up for being inactive. See article HERE
CPR for women
Research carried out by St John's Ambulance suggests that women who suffer cardiac arrest, in a public place, are less likely to receive CPR. Men fear being accused of “inappropriate” touching if they attempt CPR. See article HERE.
Jeremy Clarkson's heart problems
Jeremy Clarkson was on holiday when he first noticed that he was feeling weak when climbing stairs and swimming. His symptoms worsened on his return to the UK. Read the article for his full story. See article HERE.
Tea and coffee protect against heart disease
A study has found that drinking several cups of tea or coffee a day appears to protect against heart disease. Polyphenols, found in both coffee and tea, battle inflammation which is associated with heart disease. See article HERE.
What time should you stop eating?
How our body digests and absorbs nutrients from food may be linked to our internal body clock but it is still very important to focus on eating a healthy balance diet. See article HERE.
Women dying ‘unnecessarily’ of heart disease, say experts
People assume that cardiovascular disease (CVD) is more prevalent in men and they are more likely to get medical attention for symptoms than women. CVD is the number one killer of women. The British Cardiovascular Society is trying to redress this imbalance. See article HERE.
Are weekend lie-ins good for your heart?
Although more research is needed, there is a good chance that a weekend lie-in will reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. See article HERE.
Covid & flu vaccinations starting
The autumn and winter NHS programme of vaccinations against Covid and flu is getting underway.
We encourage you to take up the offer if you are eligible, getting vaccinated may mean you avoid a nasty illness or may even save your life. If you are 75 or over you are also likely to be eligible for vthe RSV vaccine. See these details from the NHS HERE.
Over 70's should take statins
The health of people over 70 would benefit from them taking regular statins as they are cost effective and lead to healthier lives - see report HERE
Eat less bacon and cheese to cut heart attack risk
THIS ARTICLE, in The Guardian, encourages us to reduce our salt intake. It gives examples of foods with a high salt content and suggests healthy foods we can eat instead. Reducing our salt intake can reduce our risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke.
Plan for workplace health checks
While 16 million people in the UK are eligible for NHS Health Checks only 40% of people visit their GP for one. THIS INITIATIVE brings health checks to the workplace to detect and prevent heart disease.
What is cholesterol - how can we lower it?
We usually consider cholesterol levels to be important as one gets older.
THIS BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION STUDY indicates that young people may need to be more mindful of their cholesterol to reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke later in life.
The menopause
The menopause can increase your risk of heart related illness - see THIS ARTICLE for what to do about it.