Heart Health Archive

A 2026 study found that taking more daily steps (even at a slow pace) or walking faster (even without adding steps) was associated with a lower chance of dying early.

Replacement heart valves, which are mechanical (made of metal or carbon) or tissue (made from heart tissue from a cow or pig), are inserted during either open-heart surgery or a minimally invasive procedure. The best option for each person depends on age and other factors.

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy is a common condition that causes amyloid to build up in tiny blood vessels on the brain’s surface. It can lead to gradual cognitive decline, brain bleeds, and hemorrhagic strokes.

Low-carb diets can have varied effects on LDL cholesterol levels based on a person’s body mass index. In lean people, LDL cholesterol values can rise dramatically, while levels may decline in people with obesity.

While a large study found that a drug to lower inflammation failed to prevent heart attacks and related risk, inflammation is still important in the development of coronary artery disease.

For people with sleep apnea and hypertension, using a mandibular advancement device provided similar blood pressure control and less daytime sleepiness as continuous positive airway pressure, according to a 2026 study.

People with cardiovascular disease often take five or more medications, some of which may be unnecessary, inappropriate, or even harmful. For some people, stopping or lowering the dose of certain medications under a doctor’s guidance (deprescribing) may be a good strategy.

Drinking up to five cups of coffee per day is safe for most people and may lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, according to a 2026 statement from the American Heart Association.

Avoiding a painful shingles attack is reason enough to get vaccinated, but protecting your heart may be another. A major study found that people who received two doses of the Shingrix vaccine have a 9% lower risk of serious heart-related issues over seven years compared to those who got the old Zostavax vaccine.

A 2026 study found that larger waist measurements increased heart disease-related risks, even among people with normal weight. Obesity with a small waist conferred no greater risks compared to people with normal weight and a small waist.