Cardiology

The MAPLE-HCM trial shows aficamten improves exercise capacity and symptoms more than metoprolol in symptomatic obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

In-hospital initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors is safe and may lower early cardiovascular death, worsening heart failure, and mortality in hospitalised patients.

The POTCAST trial shows raising plasma potassium to high-normal levels reduces ventricular arrhythmia risk, hospitalisations, and death in ICD patients.

DIGIT-HF shows digitoxin reduces death and hospitalisation in advanced heart failure, offering an additional option for high-risk patients on top of standard therapy.

A large study finds age strongly increases arrhythmia risk, while higher fitness levels protect against atrial ectopy in asymptomatic adults.

Automatic chest compression devices outperform manual methods for CPR in simulated zero gravity, with piston devices meeting guideline-recommended standards.

A major analysis finds Afro-American patients with hypertension face higher cardiovascular morbidity, while Asian patients carry a greater risk of stroke.

COVID-19 survivors, especially women, show signs of vascular ageing, highlighting new risks for long-term heart health.