PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the effectiveness of school-based interventions for preventing cardiovascular disease and promoting healthy lifestyles, drawing on evidence from the SI! Program. It addresses two k...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the effectiveness of school-based interventions for preventing cardiovascular disease and promoting healthy lifestyles, drawing on evidence from the SI! Program. It addresses two key questions: how such interventions influence health behaviors throughout childhood and adolescence, and which contextual factors shape their effectiveness and sustainability. RECENT FINDINGS: Evidence from multiple randomized controlled trials conducted over 15 years in diverse school settings shows that multicomponent, multilevel interventions can positively shape cardiovascular health behaviors. Studies involving more than 7,000 students in Colombia, Spain, and the United States highlight adherence and socioeconomic background as key determinants of impact. Intervention effects are strongly influenced by educational stage, adherence, and the school and home environment. Periodic reinterventions appear necessary to sustain benefits over time. Baseline health status and intervention responsiveness are also conditioned by socioeconomic context. Scaling and supporting such programs may foster lasting healthy habits early in life and help reduce global cardiovascular disease burden.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Percutaneous vascular access remains a foundation skill in the inpatient and outpatient setting. This review provides a comprehensive guide on using ultrasound-guidance to reduce complications related...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Percutaneous vascular access remains a foundation skill in the inpatient and outpatient setting. This review provides a comprehensive guide on using ultrasound-guidance to reduce complications related to vascular cannulation. RECENT FINDINGS: With the expanding roles for large-bore vascular access, optimizing first-pass success and selecting the appropriate access site is critical. This review aims to provide a pragmatic, evidence-based framework for safe, efficient, and successful vascular access by using ultrasound-guidance for optimal procedural outcomes
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Non-dilated left ventricular cardiomyopathy (NDLVC) is a newly recognized cardiomyopathy phenotype, characterized by systolic dysfunction and/or non-ischemic myocardial scar, in the absence of ventricu...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Non-dilated left ventricular cardiomyopathy (NDLVC) is a newly recognized cardiomyopathy phenotype, characterized by systolic dysfunction and/or non-ischemic myocardial scar, in the absence of ventricular dilatation. This review summarizes current evidence on its epidemiology, imaging features, genetic background, arrhythmic substrate, differential diagnosis, risk stratification, and management. RECENT FINDINGS: Advanced cardiac magnetic resonance has demonstrated that late gadolinium enhancement, particularly septal and ring-like pattern, is common in NDLVC and predicts malignant ventricular arrhythmias (MVA) and evolution to dilated phenotype. High-risk genotypes (e.g., DSP, FLNC, LMNA, PLN) and myocardial inflammation further increase arrhythmic and heart failure risk. Novel tools, including the NDLVC-5-year risk score, allow improved individualized prediction, especially when combined with genotype-specific score. NDLVC resulting from the complex interplay between genetic background and environmental factors may lead to arrhythmias and heart failure. A multimodal, phenotype-first approach integrating imaging, genetics, and electrophysiology is essential for accurate diagnosis, risk stratification, and personalized management.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Whether body mass index (BMI) influences cardiovascular and kidney outcomes of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and to understand how metabolic phenotype...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Whether body mass index (BMI) influences cardiovascular and kidney outcomes of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and to understand how metabolic phenotype may influence treatment response. RECENT FINDINGS: Across randomized trials, GLP-1 RAs consistently reduced cardiovascular events in diverse populations, with no statistically significant heterogeneity by BMI. Observational analyses suggest that individuals with overweight or obesity may experience greater absolute cardiovascular risk reduction, potentially reflecting improvements in visceral adiposity, inflammation, and insulin resistance. In contrast, renal benefits such as slower decline in kidney function, reduced albuminuria, and delayed kidney failure were uniform across BMI categories. This BMI-independent nephroprotection aligns with mechanisms involving natriuresis, reduced oxidative and inflammatory injury, and attenuation of fibrotic pathways. GLP-1 RAs provide clinically meaningful cardiovascular and kidney protection across the BMI spectrum. Cardiovascular benefits may be accentuated in individuals with elevated BMI, whereas renal benefits remain consistent regardless of adiposity. These findings support broad use of GLP-1 RAs for cardiorenal risk reduction and highlight the potential value of incorporating body-composition metrics beyond BMI in future treatment algorithms.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Measurement of absolute myocardial blood flow (MBF) improves on relative myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). It can more accurately identify multi-vessel disease and aid in the assessment of microvascu...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Measurement of absolute myocardial blood flow (MBF) improves on relative myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). It can more accurately identify multi-vessel disease and aid in the assessment of microvascular disease. It also provides independent prognostic information for risk stratification. The advent of solid-state stationary SPECT systems has led to renewed interest in the use of SPECT to measure absolute myocardial blood flow. The large utilization of SPECT for MPI means that there is a large potential impact from the clinical implementation of SPECT MBF. In this paper we review the evidence validating SPECT MBF measurements and discuss its limitations and some directions for development that could further improve its performance. RECENT FINDINGS: SPECT MBF correlates well with angiographic measurements of coronary artery disease and with MBF values from PET imaging. A current limitation is its repeatability which might be improved by new tracers with increased extraction fraction, more advanced reconstruction algorithms, and increased automation in analysis software. Study duration could be reduced through careful application of rapid acquisition protocols, and larger studies are needed to demonstrate potential benefit of SPECT MBF measurements. SPECT MBF is a promising technology that is feasible to use clinically. Several research directions are possible to enhance precision and reduce the time needed for study acquisition and processing.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To compile research evaluating low- versus high-dose aspirin efficacy and safety in patients with known cardiovascular disease. RECENT FINDINGS: The ADAPTABLE randomized controlled trial of ~ 1,500 par...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To compile research evaluating low- versus high-dose aspirin efficacy and safety in patients with known cardiovascular disease. RECENT FINDINGS: The ADAPTABLE randomized controlled trial of ~ 1,500 participants with cardiovascular disease found similar ischemic efficacy and bleeding safety of low- versus high-dose aspirin at a median follow-up of 26 months. High-dose aspirin does not have improved efficacy and increases bleeding risk in secondary cardiovascular disease prevention. As such, patients with cardiovascular disease should be maintained on low-dose aspirin.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Dyslipidemia remains a dominant modifiable driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, yet many patients do not reach lipid targets despite contemporary therapies. This review examines small inte...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Dyslipidemia remains a dominant modifiable driver of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, yet many patients do not reach lipid targets despite contemporary therapies. This review examines small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutics as a practical platform for durable lipid lowering with an emphasis on biologic rationale, delivery technologies and emerging clinical evidence. RECENT FINDINGS: Advances in RNA interference biology and siRNA chemical stabilization have enabled targeted hepatic delivery, particularly through N-acetylgalactosamine conjugation. Inclisiran provides proof-of-concept for proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 silencing with sustained low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reductions and infrequent dosing. Beyond LDL-C, investigational siRNA agents targeting apolipoprotein C-III, angiopoietin-like protein 3, and lipoprotein(a) demonstrate marked reductions in triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and genetically driven residual risk pathways. siRNA therapeutics are transitioning from experimental tools to scalable cardiovascular interventions. Their clinical impact will ultimately depend on outcomes-trial evidence, long-term safety, and implementation models that improve adherence while maintaining equitable access.
Odeleye V, Singh N, Gautam S
… +4 more, Shannon E, Bibb WM, McClure M, Paul TK
Curr Cardiol Rep
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41870800
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article reviews the evidence for cardiovascular and renal risk reduction with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), based on randomized controll...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article reviews the evidence for cardiovascular and renal risk reduction with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), based on randomized controlled trials, including emerging oral agents. RECENT FINDINGS: Injectable GLP-1 RAs have consistently demonstrated reductions in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and clinically relevant kidney outcomes, establishing their role in cardiorenal risk reduction. Oral semaglutide, the first approved oral GLP-1 RA, met criteria for cardiovascular non-inferiority in PIONEER 6 among patients with T2DM at high cardiovascular risk. The SOUL trial (oral semaglutide) subsequently demonstrated superiority for MACE reduction versus placebo in patients with established cardiovascular disease or multiple risk factors, with benefit driven largely by fewer nonfatal myocardial infarctions. However, oral semaglutide did not significantly reduce major kidney outcomes. Orforglipron, an investigational non-peptide oral GLP-1 RA with once-daily, food-independent dosing, has shown robust glycemic and weight-loss efficacy in phase 3 trials, though cardiovascular and renal outcome data are pending. Oral semaglutide has demonstrated cardiovascular benefit, but evidence supporting prevention of renal outcomes with oral GLP-1 RAs remains limited. Injectable GLP-1 RAs currently have the strongest evidence base for cardiorenal risk reduction, and ongoing outcome trials will clarify whether newer oral agents can close this gap.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review studies evaluating the first presentation of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in previously asymptomatic individuals. RECENT FINDINGS: Prior studies have evaluated the first presentatio...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review studies evaluating the first presentation of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in previously asymptomatic individuals. RECENT FINDINGS: Prior studies have evaluated the first presentation of a broad range of CVD events. In a recent study from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, ASCVD events were evaluated specifically in a population of previously asymptomatic individuals. Death/resuscitated cardiac arrest was the most common first presentation, and this disproportionately affected women and Black individuals. CAC scoring was identified as a potential tool to identify individuals at risk. The first presentation of ASCVD is often severe, including death. This emphasizes the need for risk assessment and preventive therapies in appropriate individuals.
Levitzky Y, Carta KG, Kondapalli L
… +2 more, Davis E, Andrade-Bucknor S
Curr Cardiol Rep
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41848997
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To synthesize current evidence on sex-related differences in physiological responses, clinical outcomes, and implementation of exercise training across different cardiovascular disease phenotypes. RECE...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To synthesize current evidence on sex-related differences in physiological responses, clinical outcomes, and implementation of exercise training across different cardiovascular disease phenotypes. RECENT FINDINGS: Physical activity provides benefits regardless of the patient’s sex, improves cardiovascular health and overall quality of life. Studies have found that women experience a relatively greater mortality risk reduction compared to men. Women gain greater cardiovascular and mortality benefits fromphysical activity than men, even with less exercise. Biological and hormonaldifferences shape distinct exercise responses and outcomes between sexes.Cardiac rehabilitation is highly effective for women but faces low referral andparticipation rates. Tailored, sex-specific exercise recommendations areneeded to optimize cardiovascular health in women.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: People with HIV (PWH) have increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Echocardiography is a widely accessible, non-invasive test that provides key information regarding cardiac structure and function. I...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: People with HIV (PWH) have increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Echocardiography is a widely accessible, non-invasive test that provides key information regarding cardiac structure and function. In this review, we focus on the use of echocardiography as a research tool to understand the epidemiology and pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease among PWH. We then examine the implications for echocardiographic studies in the clinical care of PWH. RECENT FINDINGS: Contemporary cohort studies that use echocardiography to characterize cardiac function among PWH largely treated with antiretroviral therapy compared to sociodemographically similar peers suggest that the risk of cardiac dysfunction associated with HIV – including left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction and right ventricular dysfunction – is lower than suggested by older studies. Echocardiography is useful for understanding the role of HIV in cardiac dysfunction, as well as the clinical care of persons with HIV.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review synthesizes contemporary evidence (2020–2025) on long-term β-blocker therapy after myocardial infarction (MI) in patients with preserved or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review synthesizes contemporary evidence (2020–2025) on long-term β-blocker therapy after myocardial infarction (MI) in patients with preserved or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF ≥ 40%), with a focus on incremental benefit in the modern reperfusion era. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent randomized trials conducted in predominantly revascularized populations receiving contemporary secondary prevention therapy demonstrate neutral effects of long-term β-blocker use on all-cause mortality, recurrent MI, and heart-failure hospitalization in patients without reduced ejection fraction. The REDUCE-AMI trial showed no benefit in patients with strictly preserved LVEF (≥ 50%), and REBOOT demonstrated similar neutral outcomes in patients with LVEF > 40%. A 2025 individual-patient data meta-analysis pooling five contemporary randomized trials (17,801 patients) confirmed the absence of prognostic benefit from β-blocker therapy in preserved EF. In contrast, a separate 2025 individual-patient–data meta-analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in death, recurrent MI, or heart-failure hospitalization among patients with mildly reduced EF (40–49%). Contemporary evidence supports an ejection fraction stratified approach to β-blocker therapy after MI: routine long-term β-blocker use provides no prognostic benefit in patients with preserved EF, whereas patients with mildly reduced EF appear to derive meaningful clinical benefit. These findings support individualized, risk-based treatment strategies and underscore the need for future EF-specific randomized trials.
BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with a high burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD), driven by clustering of poorly controlled risk factors. Despite clear evidence that multifactorial risk-factor...BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with a high burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD), driven by clustering of poorly controlled risk factors. Despite clear evidence that multifactorial risk-factor control reduces CVD events, simultaneous achievement of guideline-recommended targets remains uncommon and challenging in clinical practice. Mobile app based mHealth have emerged as scalable tools to extend chronic disease management beyond traditional care settings. OBJECTIVE: This is an updated narrative review on mobile app-based interventions in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with a focus on their impact on major cardiovascular risk factors. METHODS: We conducted a literature search on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to November 2025 for studies involving adults with T2DM, mHealth or smartphone app interventions, and cardiovascular risk factors. RESULTS: mHealth interventions consistently produced modest but clinically relevant reductions in HbA1c (up to 0.8% in intensive, tailored programs) compared to usual care. Effects on systolic blood pressure were generally small and heterogeneous. Effects on lipid profile were limited and often non-significant; most benefits appeared mediated through improved statin initiation and adherence rather than direct lifestyle change. Weight, body mass index, and waist circumference revealed small improvement, primarily in lifestyle-focused apps with active diet and physical activity tracking. mHealth programs enhanced self-management behaviors and medication adherence. These studies are limited by substantial heterogeneity in populations, intervention components, comparators, outcome ascertainment, and by digital literacy and access barriers. CONCLUSIONS: Mobile app-based interventions for T2DM reliably improve glycemic control and confer smaller, more variable benefits across other cardiovascular risk factors. Current evidence supports mHealth as an enabling component of comprehensive diabetes and cardiovascular risk management rather than a stand-alone therapy. Robust, longer-term trials in diverse, high-risk populations are needed to determine whether these digital strategies translate into durable reductions in major cardiovascular events.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this review is to evaluate the evolving burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) between 2025 and 2050. RECENT FINDINGS: Between 1990-2023, CVD deaths increased from 13.1 million to 19.2 milli...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this review is to evaluate the evolving burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) between 2025 and 2050. RECENT FINDINGS: Between 1990-2023, CVD deaths increased from 13.1 million to 19.2 million, with prevalence rising from 311 to 626 million cases. Most CVD burden is attributable to modifiable risk factors, led by high systolic blood pressure (SBP). By 2050, CVD mortality will reach 35.6 million deaths annually, while prevalence will be at 1.14 billion cases globally. Metabolic, environmental and behavioral determinants will be key drivers, varying across regions according to sociodemographic index. Age-standardized mortality rates will decline, but absolute numbers of people living with CVD will rise due to population growth, aging, and possibly also improved access to care, especially in low-middle income countries. Prevention strategies, early detection and treatment, and better implementation of what is already known are necessary to address this burden.
Joudi T, Safdar A, Shukla N
… +6 more, Issa R, Majeed Z, Khorana AA, Illescu C, Puri R, Moudgil R
Curr Cardiol Rep
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41779100
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the evolving role of catheter‐based valvular and structural interventions in cancer patients. We sought to answer whether minimally invasive approaches, including transcatheter aor...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the evolving role of catheter‐based valvular and structural interventions in cancer patients. We sought to answer whether minimally invasive approaches, including transcatheter aortic valve replacement, mitral valve repair, left atrial appendage occlusion, and patent foramen ovale closure, provide safe and effective treatments in high‐risk oncologic populations. RECENT FINDINGS: Emerging research indicates that these interventions yield comparable short‐term outcomes in cancer and non‐cancer patients, with reduced procedural complications, lower bleeding risks, and improved recovery times. Studies also suggest that careful patient selection and tailored antithrombotic management are critical, as long‐term survival is affected by the underlying malignancy. Our review concludes that catheter‐based interventions offer significant benefits in managing cardiovascular complications in cancer patients. Future investigations should focus on refining selection criteria, optimizing perioperative care, and evaluating long‐term outcomes to enhance interdisciplinary treatment strategies. These findings pave the way for improved care via a tailored approach to patients with both cancer and cardiovascular disease.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the incidence, mechanisms, and management of branch pulmonary artery stenosis following the arterial switch operation (ASO) for transposition of the great arteries. We sought to cl...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review examines the incidence, mechanisms, and management of branch pulmonary artery stenosis following the arterial switch operation (ASO) for transposition of the great arteries. We sought to clarify how surgical techniques and anatomical factors contribute to this complication and evaluate the outcomes of different interventional strategies, including balloon angioplasty and stent implantation. RECENT FINDINGS: Branch pulmonary artery stenosis is a frequent long-term complication after the ASO, particularly associated with the LeCompte maneuver. Advances in imaging techniques have improved detection, while transcatheter approaches represent the mainstay of treatment. Balloon angioplasty can provide short-term relief but is often limited by restenosis and external compression. Stent implantation has shown higher procedural success and lower reintervention rates, although it carries specific risks in younger patients and requires adaptation to growth. Pulmonary artery stenosis after an ASO remains a major clinical challenge. Individualized anatomical assessment, early recognition, and tailored interventional strategies are critical for optimizing outcomes. Future research should focus on refining stent technology, hybrid techniques, and long-term surveillance to reduce complications and improve quality of life in this growing patient population.
Ho A, Alizadeh L, Vainrib AF
… +4 more, Ro R, Bamira D, Freedberg RS, Saric M
Curr Cardiol Rep
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41739364
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes the current and evolving landscape of multimodality imaging for percutaneous endocardial left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) across three phases: preprocedural planning, perip...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes the current and evolving landscape of multimodality imaging for percutaneous endocardial left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) across three phases: preprocedural planning, periprocedural guidance, and postprocedural follow-up. RECENT FINDINGS: Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) remains the primary imaging modality to assess the left atrial appendage (LAA) in all three phases of clinical care surrounding LAAO, though many innovations have led to the rise of cardiac computed tomography (CCT) and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) as powerful adjuncts and alternatives to TEE. Advances in CCT technology such as fusion imaging and three-dimensional (3D) modeling have contributed to the emergence of CCT as an alternative to TEE for preprocedural evaluation. Intraprocedurally, real-time 3D ICE offers similar real-time guidance to TEE with similar procedural efficacy while employing a simplified workflow that can reduce procedural times and staffing needs. Post-procedural assessment with TEE or CCT is essential for evaluating device stability and complications such as peridevice leak or device-related thrombus. Multimodality imaging of LAAO is a rapidly evolving field, and thoughtful integration of TEE, CCT, and ICE is critical to optimize LAAO outcomes and minimize procedural complications.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To synthesize contemporary evidence on school-feasible cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk screening and exercise training (ET) for U.S. children (ages 6–17) and to outline a pragmatic national framework...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To synthesize contemporary evidence on school-feasible cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk screening and exercise training (ET) for U.S. children (ages 6–17) and to outline a pragmatic national framework that prioritizes fitness over size-based metrics. RECENT FINDINGS: Anthropometric indicators such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) remain practical, low-cost tools for identifying obesity-related cardiometabolic risk in schools. When complemented by blood pressure (BP) measurement, they provide a more complete profile. However, all anthropometric and hemodynamic measures are inferior to cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), which more strongly predicts future CVD risk and all-cause mortality. Both aerobic ET (aET) and resistance ET (rET) independently enhance CRF and muscular strength (MusS), yielding additive cardiometabolic benefits independent of weight loss. Implementation remains limited by reduced physical education (PE) time (PET), fragmented data systems, and insufficient teacher training. A unified national framework emphasizing CRF as a clinical vital sign, standardized screening, and structured ET in schools offers a low-cost, high-impact strategy to curb pediatric CVD risk. Policy efforts should promote validated field tests, teacher training, and integration with pediatric care networks. Shifting the focus from weight reduction to fitness optimization after establishing proper technique reduces stigma, boosts participation, and fosters lifelong physical literacy. Embedding evidence-based screening and ET into educational infrastructure could redefine preventive cardiology, positioning schools as a foundation of cardiovascular health promotion.
Metlock FE, Lalika M, Joseph JJ
… +2 more, Commodore-Mensah Y, Brewer LC
Curr Cardiol Rep
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41729362
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PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Awareness of how social determinants of health (SDoH) shape cardiovascular outcomes is increasing, yet evidence on effective interventions remains limited. This review examines the associations between...PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Awareness of how social determinants of health (SDoH) shape cardiovascular outcomes is increasing, yet evidence on effective interventions remains limited. This review examines the associations between Healthy People 2030 SDoH domains and cardiovascular health (CVH), defined by the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 (LE8), and highlights interventions with potential to reduce disparities. RECENT FINDINGS: Adverse SDoH—including economic instability, limited education and healthcare access, neighborhood disadvantage, and low social support—are consistently linked to lower LE8 scores and higher CVH burden, especially in under-resourced communities. Promising interventions include produce prescriptions, culturally tailored education, community health worker integration, built environment enhancements, and peer support models. However, most studies target single determinants, involve short follow-up, or focus on limited populations, leaving gaps in scalability and equity impact. Addressing SDoH is essential for improving LE8 behaviors and factors. Progress requires multilevel, equity-centered strategies that align clinical care, policy, and research, while expanding rigorous trials to guide sustainable, community-driven solutions.