In a nutshell This study investigated the relationship between smoking and the risk of a second cardiovascular event (CVE). Researchers suggested that after a first CVE, smoking cessation (SC; quit smoking) lowers the risk of a second CVE. Some background Cardiovascular events (CVEs) include stroke, heart attack or death due to damage to the...
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In a nutshell This study investigated the effect of smoking on acute coronary syndrome (ACS). They found that smoking was associated with lower mortality. Some background Smoking is a known cause of heart disease. Smoking leads to an increase in atherosclerotic plaques (fatty deposits) in the arteries. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a term...
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In a nutshell This phase II trial evaluated the benefit of a new drug of the aldosterone synthase inhibitors class in the treatment of high blood pressure. Different doses of this new drug were compared to a placebo, and the effects on blood pressure were reviewed. Some background Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and a key...
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In a nutshell In this article, the latest clinical trials are reviewed in an attempt to conclude what is the optimal blood pressure target for patients of cardiovascular (CV) events, such as heart attack or stroke. Some background Hypertension is defined as blood pressure higher than 140/90 mmHg at rest. The higher value is called systolic (SBP),...
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In a nutshell This comprehensive rehabilitation trial evaluated the benefit, if any, of cardiac rehablitation on survival, cardiac or psychological wellness, and general well-being in heart attack survivors. Some background Myocardial Infarction(MI) or heart-attack occurs when flow of oxygen-rich blood is suddenly blocked from reaching the...
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In a nutshell The present study evaluated the effect of two drug groups – Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) – on cardiovascular (CV)-related events (e.g. heart attacks, strokes), occurence of heart failure (HF) and death, in patients with normal heart...
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In a nutshell This trial assessed the efficacy and safety of a new diabetes drug, Dapagliflozin (Forxiga). Results revealed that the drug helps control difficult cases of type 2 diabetes with only moderate side-effects. Some background Dapagliflozin is a drug recently approved by the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of diabetes. Its...
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Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is associated with a higher risk of complications during pregnancy, both for the mother and the developing fetus. These can often be prevented with careful management. This article outlines current guidelines regarding T1DM management before and during pregnancy. Before pregnancy Pre-conception tests should...
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