AtherosclerosisInfo Center

Absorbing Stent Posts Early Trial Success
A new bioabsorbable stent used to prop open blood vessels following a procedure to open blocked arteries has shown promise in an early trial among coronary artery disease patients.
Garlic is Great for Keeping Cholesterol Low
Sometimes it seems like no matter what you do, what lifestyle or diet changes you make, your cholesterol won't drop below 200. It turns out that all that might be missing from your diet is a little (or a lot) more garlic.
A Hearty Dose of Insulin Therapy
People with diabetes are often treated with insulin. Now, it seems that insulin also can repair some of the damage done by heart disease, a condition that diabetes patients are especially prone to.
Stents Prevent Stroke in High Risk Patients
High risk patients with carotid artery disease are not eligible for traditional surgery to remove plaque clogging a key neck artery. A stent to prop the artery open now appears to be a safer option for such high risk patients.
Too Much of a Good Thing
Though many people are deficient in vitamin D, it's possible to go too far to make up the difference. The "sunshine vitamin" may only protect the heart if you have the right amount.
The RA Heart Left Unprotected
The inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis can affect more than the joints; it also poses a threat to the heart. When it comes to protecting the heart health of rheumatoid arthritis patients, certain drugs are falling short.
How Reliable a Link?
Though men who have vascular erectile dysfunction appear to be at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, that doesn't mean ED alone should be considered a risk factor.
Prenatal Smoking is Deadly
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.
A MRI is a Better Heart Checker
Patients with coronary heart disease are often diagnosed following a battery of tests, some of which are invasive or require radiation. A better option allows patients to skip riskier or more invasive testing.
The Other Heart Benefit of Cholesterol Drugs
Cholesterol-lowering statin drugs may have an added benefit. They also appear to break down plaque in arteries, a major contributor to blood vessel blockages that can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Now, doctors know why.