Latest news with #CVD
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
According to THE SAGE GROUP, The Current United States Prevalence of Chronic Venous Disease (CVD) Exceeds 190 Million. The Most Severe Stage, Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), Afflicts Over 50 Million.
BEAUFORT, S.C., July 18, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A new report published by THE SAGE GROUP quantifies CVD prevalence and incidence for the 2020-2040 period. "Chronic venous disease afflicts 1.5 times as many people as all cardiovascular diseases combined, and five times more than those with diabetes. It is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases. However, CVD is significantly underestimated, underdiagnosed and undertreated," stated Mary L. Yost, President. CVD represents a spectrum of medical conditions involving morphological and functional abnormalities of the venous system. Severity ranges from mild disease such as spider veins, reticular veins and telangiectasia to active venous ulcers. The most severe stage of CVD, chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), is characterized by edema, skin changes and ulcers. Commenting on CVI, Yost observed, "The primary causes are damaged or incompetent 'refluxing' valves and obstructions due to deep vein thrombosis (DVT). CVI is strongly associated with cardiovascular disease sharing many risk factors. CVI increases the risk of all-cause mortality by 3X." "If untreated, CVI progresses to more severe disease, including venous ulcers. In 2025, over 2 million individuals suffer from venous ulcers generating direct medical costs of $55 to $70 billion," Yost continued. "Our venous disease estimates are higher than most of the commonly quoted numbers," Yost stated. "Our review of the literature concluded that many of the frequently quoted, older studies have significant limitations. This is especially true for venous ulcers with widely varying incidence and prevalence estimates. Venous ulcers are frequently underestimated because approximately half of patients self-treat." About the Report: Chronic Venous Disease (CVD) Epidemiology, Prevalence, Incidence and Progression The report focuses on CVD epidemiology, prevalence, incidence and the percent progression to more severe disease. The primary purpose of this research is to estimate the number of U.S. adults with CVD, the number with CVI and the number in each of the C1-C6 CEAP classes. Patient prevalence and incidence estimates for the 2020-2040 period are provided in 5-year increments. Additional information: THE SAGE GROUP, a research and consulting company, specializes in arterial and venous disease in the lower limbs. Additional information: View source version on Contacts THE SAGE GROUP, Beaufort SCMary Yost, (404) 520-6652yost@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Medscape
4 days ago
- Health
- Medscape
CVD Plus Excess Weight Increases Breast Cancer Risk
Excess body weight is a well-known risk factor for breast cancer in postmenopausal women, but is the risk the same in women who also have cardiovascular disease (CVD) or type 2 diabetes? The short answer is no for CVD and yes for type 2 diabetes, a recent analysis suggested. Women with excess body weight who developed CVD had a significantly higher risk for breast cancer, according to the study, published earlier this month in Cancer . The researchers, led by Heinz Freisling, PhD, reported that each 5 kg/m2 increase in BMI was associated with a 31% higher risk for breast cancer in women who developed CVD vs a 13% higher risk in women without CVD. However, women with excess body weight who developed type 2 diabetes did not have a higher risk for breast cancer than women who did not develop diabetes. These findings indicate that 'weight control/prevention measures are particularly important for women with a history of CVD,' explained Freisling, with the Nutrition and Metabolism Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organization. Research on how cardiometabolic diseases, such as CVD and type 2 diabetes, affect the association between adiposity and breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women is limited. Earlier work by the team had found an additive interaction between obesity and CVD and overall cancer risk as well as obesity-related cancer risk but no such additive interaction between obesity and type 2 diabetes with cancer risk. However, the research did not address whether CVD or type 2 diabetes modified the relationship between body weight and breast cancer risk, the researchers noted. In the current analysis, Freisling and colleagues analyzed individual participant data from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition and UK Biobank on 168,547 postmenopausal women who did not have cancer, type 2 diabetes, or CVD at the outset. After a median follow-up of nearly 11 years in both cohorts, 6793 postmenopausal women developed breast cancer. Pooled data from both cohorts revealed that, with BMI increases of 5 kg/m2, women who developed CVD had a higher risk for breast cancer (hazard ratio [HR], 1.31) than those who did not develop CVD (HR, 1.13). The combination of overweight (BMI ≥ 25) and CVD was estimated to lead to 1.53 more cases of breast cancer per 1000 people per year than expected. However, type 2 diabetes did not modify the relationship between adiposity and breast cancer risk. What might explain the different associations? 'We know from animal studies that CVD can lead to cancer growth through biological pathways that are not shared with adiposity. For example, a stressed heart muscle releases proteins into the blood stream that can trigger cancer growth,' Freisling said. However, 'we know from other studies that excess adiposity and diabetes affect breast cancer risk through similar biological pathways,' which 'may result in the same increase in cancer risk,' Freisling said. Overall, these findings could inform risk-stratified breast cancer screening programs, Freisling and colleagues noted. But it's unclear how weight loss in women with and without CVD would affect their breast cancer risk. 'This should be investigated in future studies,' Freisling said. Stephanie Bernik, MD, who was not involved in the research, said the findings are 'interesting' but cautioned against drawing any firm conclusions from the study. 'I think the bottom line is we need to look into it a little more deeply and uncover the mechanism for the association,' said Bernik, chief of the breast service at Mount Sinai West and associate professor of surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City. 'For now, perhaps physicians could be more aware that if someone has obesity and cardiovascular disease, they may be at higher risk for breast cancer.'
New Indian Express
12-07-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Deal with proven culprits for sudden cardiac deaths in Karnataka's Hassan district than the unproven
Twenty-four 'sudden' deaths over 40 days in May-June this year in Hassan district, suspected to be due to cardiac issues, have sent shock waves across the state. Of these deaths, 14 were aged under-45 while 10 were over that age. Even before the facts behind the deaths were established, a section of experts, politicians and the general public jumped the gun to speculate that the sudden increase in cardiac deaths was due to Covid-19 vaccine-induced clotting, affecting the cardiovascular system. The Karnataka government ordered an investigation into the deaths by the Director, Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences (SJICS), Bengaluru. The probe report, which came out on July 10, concluded that the deaths did not indicate any increase in sudden cardiac deaths in the district. It was almost the same as in the previous months in Hassan district. Analysis of cardiac cases data at SJICS, Bengaluru, and its peripheral centres in Mysuru and Kalaburagi, in the last six months also did not show any increasing trends in cardiac deaths. The report also stated that definitive conclusions about cause of deaths in each case were limited due to lack of autopsy data, clinical data and limited history from family members. However, it did note that the occurrences of sudden deaths in younger adults underscored the growing burden of premature cardiovascular disease. The report called for early cardiovascular screening programs and health education, and establishing mandatory investigation protocols (including post-mortems) for all sudden deaths in apparently healthy young adults. The deaths in Hassan districts have rattled many. But it must be remembered that cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been a major health concern – in fact at epidemic proportions – not only in Karnataka, but across India, from much before the Covid-19 pandemic and the vaccines came on the scene. Moreover, international studies have failed to conclusively prove a link between the Covid-19 vaccines and cardiac-related incidents or deaths.
The Sun
07-07-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The 5 daily habits that slash the risk of UK's biggest killer
RESPONSIBLE for a quarter of all deaths, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is of the UK's biggest killers. It serves as an umbrella term for heart and circulatory diseases - including coronary heart disease, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, stroke and vascular dementia. 1 There are over 7.6 million people living with heart and circulatory diseases in the UK, according to the British Heart Foundation - twice as many as the amount living with cancer and Alzheimer's disease combined. CVD causes more than 170,000 deaths a year - about a quarter of all deaths in the UK. Earlier this year, the BHF warned that deaths from heart related issues had risen for the first time in 50 years. Several conditions can increase your risk of developing CVD, including being overweight or having high blood pressure and cholesterol. Certain habits can contribute too, from smoking and drinking to not being particularly. But just as lifestyle can up your risk of disease, making simple tweaks to it can also boost your odds against CVD and The recipe for a healthy heart is made up of a few different habits, according to the British Heart Foundation's senior cardiac nurse Ruth Goss and the charity 's senior dietitian Dell Stanford. These can include sipping on coffee, paying attention to the timing of your meals - as well as their content - and living by the phrase "movement is medicine", the experts told The Independent. 1. Get moving for 30 minutes Ruth said: 'Whatever your age, being active now will have an immediate impact on your health, reducing your risk of heart and circulatory diseases. "It's never too late to increase your physical activity or start a new sport, regardless of how little you have exercised in the past.' The easy-to-miss signs of deadly heart problems She recommends doing at least 150 minutes of exercise a week - something that will get your heart pumping faster, such as a brisk walk, swimming, cycling, gardening or even cleaning. If that seems like a lot, you can work up to that gradually. "Doing just 30 minutes a day is a good way to reach 150 minutes a week," according to Ruth. Multiple studies have suggested sitting for extended periods, particularly exceeding 10 hours a day, can be especially detrimental to heart health. A sedentary lifestyle significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular issues like heart attacks and strokes by contributing to factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity. Consultant cardiologist Dr Jonathan Behar of King Edward VII's Hospital previously told Sun Health: "Even smaller things like walking up the escalators on my commute can help. "If it gets the blood pumping then it probably helps." A recent study showed consistently opting to take the stairs - instead of the lift or escalators - could reduce your risk of dying from CVD by 39 per cent. 2. Watch what you eat - and when What you eat can make a big difference to your risk of CVD. Dell recommended sticking to a healthy balance of carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables, lean proteins, dairy and unsaturated fats. Choose wholegrain varieties of bread, pasta and cereal, include lean sources of protein - from non-fatty cuts of meat, to fish, eggs and beans - in every meal, and choose low-fat dairy options. 'Fats are also an important part of a healthy diet, but choose foods that are high in unsaturated fats such as olive or rapeseed oil, nuts and seeds, oily fish, olives and avocados," the dietitian said. Indulgence is a part of life, but it's a good idea eat treats in moderation, Dr Behar told Sun Health. "I try not to have too many tempting things around like chocolate spreads, fatty crisps and sugary drinks," he said. "If it's very sugary, salty, or high in saturated fat, it's something to have infrequently and in small amounts." The timing of your meals is just as important as what you have on your plate, Dell went on. 'Studies have shown that even when people eat the same number of calories, the time of day they are eaten affects how they are used in the body," he said. "This difference could affect weight, cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels – all of which can affect your risk of heart and circulatory diseases. "Our body's circadian rhythms – its natural daily cycles – are designed for eating in the day and sleeping at night. If they are disrupted, this could have implications for our heart health." As a result, he advised having your last meal earlier in the day, rather than late at night. 3. Have coffee - but not too much Good news for coffee lovers - moderate amounts of it could boost heart health, according to Dell. 'One observational study found that consuming two or three cups of coffee a day could be good for you and may be linked to lower risk of CVD compared to drinking no coffee,' he said. 'In addition to caffeine, coffee contains polyphenols which may help reduce harmful inflammation and reduce CVD risk. "Research tells us that moderate amounts of caffeine shouldn't be a problem for most people.' Drinking more than four of five cups could dip you into less heart-healthy territory, as too much caffeine can increase blood pressure, heart rate, palpitations and anxiety. Recent research suggests the morning is the best time to enjoy your coffee. Scientists from Tulane University in New Orleans said caffeine in the afternoon or evening might disrupt the body clock and raise blood pressure 4. Stay hydrated It won't come a surprise that staying hydrated is good for your health. But making sure to drink water - as well as teas, coffees, low fat milk and sugar-free squash - can benefit your heart. 'When you are dehydrated, there is less blood travelling around the body,' according to the BHF. 'This can lead to low blood pressure, dizziness and fainting. In response, the heart may start beating faster [tachycardia] to help move blood around the body. "You may experience this as a racing, pounding heartbeat in your chest, called palpitations. Dehydration can also thicken the blood, increasing the risk of blood clots and heart attacks.' But drinking more water can improve circulation, digestion and gut health, according to the charity. It'll also make it easier to exercise, another essential component of good heart health. 5. Sleep on it Getting enough sleep is also important for your heart and circulatory health, Ruth added. She recommended adults aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night, in line with NHS recommendations. A recent study warned that just three nights of bad sleep can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke - even for "perfectly healthy" people. heart problems, according to the findings. Another study also warned that irregular sleep patterns can up the risk of heart attack - even in people managing to snooze eight hours a night. How to reduce your risk of heart attacks and stroke You can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke with many of the same methods. Heart attacks and strokes, although affecting different organs of the body, are both what we call cardiovascular events. Both arise from similar underlying conditions, such as atherosclerosis —a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries. According to the American Heart Association, the risk factors for heart attacks and strokes are largely the same: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and diabetes. Therefore, addressing these risk factors can simultaneously reduce the risk of both conditions. Here are ways you can prevent the two: Healthy diet More fruit and veg: The DASH, which emphasises fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health. Less fats: Too much saturated and trans fats can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis. Go for healthier fats like those found in olive oil, nuts, and avocados. Limit salt: High salt intake is linked to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for both heart attack and stroke. The NHS recommends no more than 6g of salt per day for adults. Fibre: Foods high in soluble fibre, such as oats and beans, can help lower cholesterol levels. Exercise Walking, running, cycling, swimming - whatever you like, do it! Aerobic exercise can strengthen the heart and improve circulation. The NHS advises at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week. Strength training exercises can help control weight, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce blood pressure. It is recommended twice a week by the NHS. Manage blood pressure Healthy diet and exercise can help keep your blood pressure in check. But it is worth monitoring it yourself after the age of 40, at least, when the NHS invites adults for a check-up every five years. High blood pressure often has no symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Quit smoking One of the best ways to quit smoking is to use resources provided by NHS Smokefree. Support groups, medications, and other tools to help quit smoking such as vapes could be what you need to kick the habit for good - and it's free. Limit booze Excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure and contribute to weight gain, which can snowball and become a heart health risk. The NHS recommends not regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week.
Indian Express
01-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
To help colourblind people see colours, Surat tech student develops technique
An MTech student of Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT), Surat, has won an award for developing an image recolouring technique to help people with colour blindness. Saakshi Padmawar's research paper was selected for the best paper award at the OPJU International Technology Conference, held at O P Jindal University, Chhattisgarh, recently. Padmawar's research focuses on improving the visual experience for individuals with Colour Vision Deficiency (CVD), popularly known as colour blindness, a condition that affects around eight per cent of the global male population and 0.4 per cent of women and girls. People with CVD often find it difficult to distinguish between certain colour combinations, especially red and green, or blue and yellow, which can make it challenging to interpret traffic lights, educational charts, websites and more. Padmawar, a student of Computer Science, developed an algorithm which can help people to see a wider range of colours. 'This can be used on the screens of gadgets. In the future, such techniques can be used in smart eyeglasses, allowing people to enjoy seeing different colours. I thought about helping people in the medical field. I chose the topic as it came under our subject project. I worked for five to six hours a day for five months on this topic,' she told The Indian Express. According to Padmawar, 'By applying recolouration techniques, we aim to separate red and green hues effectively, enhancing distinguishing while maintaining visual naturalness. The ability to perceive colours arises from the complex interaction of light with the human visual system, particularly the retina cone cells. Any disruption in this process can lead to colour vision deficiencies that impact a person's daily activities and overall quality of life.' The paper — titled 'Colourblind-Friendly Image Recolouring Using Generative Adversarial Networks' — was prepared under the guidance of associate professor Dr Chandra Prakash. Sources said that out of 440 submissions from across the country to the OPJU International Technology Conference, her paper was chosen among the top 35 before it went on to receive the Best Paper Award. The paper notes how colour blindness often goes unnoticed for years because people with the condition may adapt to their environment without realising that they perceive colours differently. This is especially true for mild to moderate forms of CVD, where individuals may only have trouble distinguishing specific colours, such as red and green or blue and yellow. Human colour vision relies on three types of cone cells in the retina L-cones (sensitive to long wavelengths, associated with red), M-cones (sensitive to medium wavelengths, linked to green), and S-cones (sensitive to medium wavelengths, related to blue). Dr Chandra Prakash said, 'In dichromatism, the absence of one type of cone limits colour perception…. Protanopia results from the absence of L-cones, while deuteranopia arises from the absence of M-cones. This leads to a significant overlap in perceived red and green hues, which diminishes contrast. For individuals with Protanopia or Deuteranopia, the red-green opponent channel is severely impaired.' 'Our study addresses these deficiencies, particularly for Protanopia and Deuteranopia. These conditions affect red-green differentiation, creating challenges in distinguishing colours in natural and artificial scenes,' Dr Prakash said. Padmawar further said, '… Our methodology consists of three parts: simulating dichromatic vision, recolouring using linear transformation techniques, and generalising recolouration for unseen images using a GAN-based approach. Every phase is intended to address a different facet of improving dichromatic people's visual perception.'
