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Heart Health Archive

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Gene-editing therapy lowers harmful blood fats in early study

A one-time infusion of a gene-editing therapy called CTX310 may safely lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, according to a small preliminary trial. The first-in-human study, published in 2025, included 15 people with uncontrolled LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, or both.

Daily cup of coffee may prevent afib recurrence

People with atrial fibrillation (afib) who drank an average of one cup of caffeinated coffee daily had a lower risk of recurrent afib compared to those who avoided caffeine, according to a 2025 study.

What is long QT syndrome?

Long QT syndrome is a disorder of the heart's electrical system that can be either acquired (for example, due to a medication) or congenital. Although usually people have no symptoms, it can cause a fast, erratic heartbeat that may lead to shortness of breath, fainting, and sometimes death.

Stroke survivors may benefit from very low LDL levels

For stroke survivors, reaching a very low LDL (bad) cholesterol level may reduce their risk of future strokes and other cardiovascular problems, according to a 2025 study.

The emotional aftermath of a heart attack

Up to half of all heart attack survivors experience some type of psychological distress, including sadness, worry, or irritability. This problem is known as post-myocardial infarction psychological distress. Cardiac rehabilitation is the best way to get treatment.

Inflammation and heart disease: A smoldering threat

Chronic, low-level inflammation is just as important as cholesterol in causing clogged heart arteries. Cardiologists are calling for more widespread testing for inflammation, which is easily measured with an inexpensive blood test.

Should you take a magnesium supplement to lower your blood pressure?

Taking magnesium supplements has become popular in recent years, and some evidence suggests this practice may help lower blood pressure, especially for those with high blood pressure or low magnesium levels. But a healthy diet is a better way for people to ensure they're getting enough of this essential nutrient.

What's new in the latest CPR guidelines?

The 2025 cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines from the American Heart Association provide recommendations for recognizing and responding to several different types of emergencies, including choking, a suspected opioid overdose, and cardiac arrest.

Safe and effective high-intensity interval training

High-intensity interval training alternates short bursts of hard effort with recovery, boosting aerobic fitness, heart health, and muscle in less time. For older adults, adjusting intensity to current fitness levels helps keep HIIT safe and effective.

New thinking on beta blocker use

Beta blockers have long been standard treatment for people after a heart attack. New evidence suggests they may not help those whose hearts still pump normally, though the drugs remain important for heart attack survivors with reduced ejection fraction.

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