How to save lives in 2020? Learn about the latest advancements in cardiovascular research
Since 1996 the American Heart Association (AHA) has compiled a list of new discoveries each year.
Dr. Raul Herrera, who is responsible for leading advancements in scientific research in the United States, explains what the achievements of 2019 were and offers some recommendations that can help save lives.
Scientific achievements of 2019
During 2019 the area of Cardiology in the United States was one of many achievements. Recent studies pointed out new ways to treat and prevent heart disease.
- A study of elderly women showed that physical activity of any kind for “1 hour” per day reduces the chances of a heart attack or coronary death by 42%.
- Research in 2019 showed that taking medication to lower blood pressure before bedtime results in a 45% reduction in cardiovascular events.
- Children who are exposed to cigarette smoke have a higher risk of having tachycardia and arrhythmia, also known as atrial fibrillation.
- Omega-3 fatty acid reduces the risk of cardiovascular events (such as strokes and heart attacks) by 25% in people who have high triglycerides and are taking medications called statins (such as atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, lovastatin, etc.).
- A new study showed that in patients who are actively having a heart attack (known as a STEMI), it is best to open all the coronary arteries and revascularize the entire heart.
- It was shown that the drug Dapagliflozin (Farxiga) provides significant benefits to patients with heart failure.
- Discoveries in technological advancements were also present. People that used the smartwatch were able to recognize a tachycardia or irregular pulse, even without feeling symptoms.
Advice that can save lives this 2020:
Based on these new findings from 2019, Dr. Raul Herrera, Director of the Cardiovascular Science Research Institute at Baptist Hospital in Miami, Florida, offers some healthy lifestyle techniques to overcome heart disease:
- Lose weight and reduce carbohydrate intake.
- Exercise for a healthier body.
- Celebrate a sober January. Refrain from drinking alcohol.
- Adopt a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables, grains, seeds, legumes, fruits and protein from chicken and fish. Minimize the consumption of red meat and milk.