We've known for decades that smoking during pregnancy is potentially damaging for the baby, and has been linked to various birth defects, premature birth, underdeveloped lungs, low birthweight and many other problems.

In addition to immediate health risks and developmental delays, preemies or babies with very low birth weights appear to be at an increased risk of developing hypertension later in life.

An effective option for aiding high-risk patients suffering from cardiovascular disease may be an individualized treatment plan from a nurse-led team focused on reducing heart disease risk factors.

Developing memory loss as you age? The culprit for memory loss in some elderly patients may be linked to silent strokes that caused small pockets of dead brain cells.

Heart rhythm disorders may have a genetic link. Researchers have identified a gene mutation that appears to interfere with the cardiac conduction system, contributing to lethal heart arrhythmias.

After an artery-opening procedure following a heart attack, some patients take Plavix ( clopidogrel ) to treat or prevent a blood clot. Though the drug isn't as effective in some individuals, genetic testing is not needed, a recent study suggests.

Heart attack treatment can be tricky because diagnosing it may require numerous tests for an actual confirmation. A more sensitive diagnostic biomarker test could immediately rule out a heart attack.

As if police officers did not already face enough dangers on the job, they can now add one more hazard to the list: a high incidence of sleep disorders.

After having initial success in quickly losing weight, it's common for body weight to level off. During this period a person may maintain the same weight or begin regaining weight.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials have given the green light to a device designed to support weakened hearts in children with heart failure who are awaiting a transplant.