#Heart

Good News

Heart Failure Patients Discover the Power of Stepping Towards Better Health - A Game-Changing Path to Significant Improvements

A new study has found that people with heart failure can improve their health significantly by increasing their daily step count. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Heart Failure, suggests that physical data from wearable devices like Fitbits and step counters can be clinically significant. The study was conducted by Dr. Jessica Golbus and her team at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. They sought to determine the relationship between daily activity and patient outcomes for people with heart failure. The study provided 425 participants with a Fitbit and asked them to complete questionnaires through a smartphone application. The questions measured physical symptoms, quality of life, and social limitations. The study found that higher daily step counts equated with increased scores for both physical limitation and total symptom scores. Changes in step count over time were also significantly associated with changing scores, suggesting that step count data from a wearable device may be leveraged to inform clinical care. The study suggests that increasing daily step count can improve health status, and that increases in step count over time may be clinically meaningful. This information can be used by healthcare providers to help patients with heart failure improve their health and quality of life. Wearable devices like Fitbits and step counters can be used to track daily step count and help monitor progress.

31 Jul 2023

Good News

Womb with a View: Groundbreaking Brain Surgery on Unborn Baby Prevents Heart Failure

In a groundbreaking medical procedure, doctors at a Texas hospital have successfully performed the first-ever brain surgery on a baby while still in the womb. The surgery was performed to prevent a potentially fatal condition called hydrocephalus, which can lead to heart failure. The surgery was performed on a 23-week-old fetus at the Texas Children's Hospital in Houston. The baby had been diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition in which fluid accumulates in the brain, causing pressure to build up and potentially leading to heart failure. The surgery was performed to insert a shunt into the baby's brain, which would allow excess fluid to drain out and prevent the buildup of pressure. The surgery was performed using a minimally invasive technique called fetoscopic surgery, which involves making small incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus to access the fetus. The procedure was performed by a team of specialists, including fetal surgeons, neurosurgeons, and anesthesiologists. The surgery was a success, and the baby was born at full term without any complications. The baby's brain is developing normally, and there have been no signs of hydrocephalus since the surgery. The success of this groundbreaking surgery opens up new possibilities for treating a range of fetal conditions before birth. It also highlights the importance of prenatal care and early detection of fetal conditions, which can help prevent serious health complications later in life.

8 May 2023

Good News

Unearthing the Unbelievable: Rare Beating Heart Diamond Discovered in India

A rare and stunning discovery has been made in the Indian state of Gujarat where a diamond within a diamond has been unearthed by miners. A diamond company has its hands on a jewel that is rarer than rare—a large, hollow diamond, inside of which rests another, smaller diamond. Dubbed the “Beating Heart,” there is enough room inside the cavity to allow the smaller diamond to tumble around. Only one other such discovery has ever been made, and the company — Vallabh Dhanjibhai Global in the west Indian state of Gujarat who's a sightholder of the De Beers Group, the world’s largest diamond exchange — hopes to leave it uncut and unpolished to promote the natural splendor of the gemology therein. What makes the Beating Heart so remarkable is its structure. The diamond has a smaller diamond-shaped cavity inside it, which appears to be moving and pulsating when viewed under a microscope. This gives the diamond the appearance of a beating heart, hence its name. Experts say that the Beating Heart is an extremely rare and valuable find, as diamonds within diamonds are almost unheard of in the diamond industry. The diamond is currently being studied by gemologists and diamond experts, who are trying to determine its exact value and potential uses. For the people of Gujarat, the discovery of the Beating Heart is a source of pride and awe. The diamond is a symbol of the region's rich natural resources and the skill and expertise of its diamond miners. It is also a reminder of the potential of the earth to yield rare and wondrous treasures, which can inspire and captivate us all.

26 Apr 2023

Good News

Heart Attack and Stroke Risk Cut in Half: The Amazing Power of One Stem Cell Injection

A breakthrough in medical research has been achieved by scientists who have discovered that a single stem-cell injection can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by 58%. This groundbreaking discovery is expected to revolutionize the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading cause of death worldwide. The study, conducted by a team of researchers, involved injecting stem cells into the bloodstream of patients suffering from inflammation. The stem cells, which are capable of transforming into different cell types, were found to reduce inflammation and promote the growth of new blood vessels, which are vital for the proper functioning of the heart. It involved patients who had suffered from inflammation-related cardiovascular diseases, and were at high risk of heart attack or stroke. The patients were divided into two groups – one group was given a single stem-cell injection, while the other group was given a placebo. The results showed that the group that received the stem-cell injection had a 58% reduced risk of heart attack and stroke, compared to the placebo group. The researchers are now planning to conduct larger clinical trials to further investigate the potential of stem-cell therapy in treating cardiovascular diseases. If successful, this could lead to a new era of personalized medicine, where patients are treated with their own stem cells, rather than drugs or surgery.

1 Apr 2023

Good News

Ukranian national receives heart for transplant from Indian donor

The 46th heart transplant in Mumbai was carried out at the Fortis hospital in Mulund successfully. The heart of a young accident victim from Surat was transplanted on a 27 year old housewife from Ukraine on Monday. It took 92 minutes to transport the harvested heart from Unity Hospital in Gujarat's Surat to Fortis Hospital in suburban Mulund covering a distance of 317km. The recepient of the heart is a pregnant Ukrainian national who suffered from post-partum dilated cardiomyopathy, an uncommon form of heart failure that happens during the last month of pregnancy or up to five months after giving birth. This disorder carries a high mortality rate. Dr Anvay Mulay, cardiac transplant team head of Fortis Hospital said that the surgery was successfully done and the patient is stable. It is unfortunate that a 22 year old man who was working with a bank in Surat met with a fatal accident and was declared brain dead. His family was counselled by an NGO to donate his heart, liver, pancreas, corneas and kidneys to which the family consented. Dr. Anvay said that the contribution of the donor family to the wait listed patients is unmatched. They've saved and enriched lives of seven recipients through their young son.

14 Apr 2017

Good News

Indian scientists develop affordable credit card size ECG machines

The scientists at Bhaba Atomic Research Centre have developed a small credit card-sized electro cardiogram (ECG) that will be of great assistance to many people with heart problems. This machine is small and handy and easily records the activity of the heart which helps to prevent heart attacks in patients. The use of advanced technology allows the tele- ECG machine to transmit an ECG to the mobile phone immediately. The best part is that it is pocket friendly. The 12 channel device costs only Rs 4,000 and it is presumed to be the smallest ECG machine in the world. The incidence of heart attacks is very high in India. Every thirty seconds, one person in India dies due to a heart attack. In urban areas, hospitals are equipped with adequate facilities to help the patients, but in rural areas, basic electro-cardiogram (ECG) machines are not there, let alone specialists who can read them. While imported commercial models are much bigger, heavier and 10 times more expensive, this tele-ECG machine that can transmit an ECG over mobile phones is small and can be used to save lives. Another important feature of this machine is that it can be recharged with the help of a mobile charger and then the data can be transmitted via mobile network anywhere in the world to a specialist.

18 Mar 2017

Good News

Global News

Nigeria makes a Breakthrough in Cardiovascular Drug Development With Nature’s Hidden Treasure

In an impressive breakthrough, Nigeria's Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) has revealed the development of a groundbreaking cardiovascular drug derived from oyster mushrooms. This innovative creation, known as Lovastatin, was formulated by the agency's researchers at the esteemed Professor Hussaini Ibrahim Technology and Innovation Center. Engr. Florence Madueguna, the Project officer at the center, explained that Lovastatin has proven effective in reducing cholesterol levels in the body. The RMRDC's exceptional achievement with this drug secured them a first-place win at the prestigious 7th Science, Technology, and Innovation Expo, accompanied by a substantial prize. To facilitate mass production, the agency has partnered with the private sector. Lovastatin, the active ingredient in oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus), occurs naturally in foods like red yeast rice. In Nigeria, oyster mushrooms thrive abundantly. They contain an average of 2.8% lovastatin, varying based on factors such as size, age, and substrate composition. Lovastatin, a medication in the statin medicine class, is frequently used to lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It is used as a secondary raw material and is mixed with other drug carriers and nutritional ingredients to create multiple statin medications that are marketed under different names and dosages. The significance of this development cannot be overstated, as cardiovascular diseases (CVD) claim a staggering number of lives annually. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CVD accounts for 31% of global fatalities, with approximately 17.9 million deaths each year. With the discovery of Lovastatin derived from oyster mushrooms, Nigeria's scientific community has taken a tremendous stride forward in combating cardiovascular diseases, offering hope for improved heart health and a brighter future.

6 May 2023

Global News

Positive Reads

Flightless Bald Eagle in Missouri Receives Unexpected Gift: An Eaglet to Nurture

In a heartwarming turn of events, a flightless bald eagle in Missouri, named Murphy, has been blessed with an eaglet to care for, ending his days of incubating a rock. Murphy, a 31-year-old bird residing at the World Bird Sanctuary, found solace in nursing the rock inside his enclosure alongside five other bald eagles. Constructing a makeshift nest, the eagle diligently tended to the rock as if it were an egg, capturing the attention of Keeper Kerstin. The sanctuary took to social media, sharing the intriguing story of Murphy's devotion. Roger Holloway, the facility director, explained that Murphy's behavior, while unusual, was driven by his natural parental instincts. Despite the absence of actual eggs, the eagle's hormonal surge in spring compelled him to incubate, demonstrating an extraordinary and rarely witnessed phenomenon. As Murphy grew more protective of his rock, causing distress among the other eagles, the sanctuary made the compassionate decision to relocate him and his "RockBaby" to a private enclosure. It was during this time that the idea emerged to introduce Murphy to an eaglet whose nest had been destroyed in a storm, given his strong nesting and parental behavior. With caution and careful observation, the eaglet was gradually introduced to Murphy. Placed in a specially constructed "baby jail," the young bird was safely placed within Murphy's enclosure. Astonishingly, Murphy displayed curiosity rather than aggression toward the eaglet, prompting their progression to a nesting platform. There, Murphy fully embraced his role as a parent, even feeding the eaglet. Holloway regards the timing as a remarkable coincidence, with Murphy's inclination to incubate aligning perfectly with the arrival of the eaglet. As the duo settles into their new routine, the sanctuary staff observed Murphy's protective nature, keeping a watchful eye over the eaglet as it rests in the nest. The story of Murphy, the RockBaby, and the eaglet serves as a reminder of the resilience and capacity for love found even in the most unexpected places.

6 May 2023

Positive Reads

PM Narendra Modi Praises Indian Doctors for Exceptional Skills in Foetal Heart Surgery

Indian doctors have once again proven their exceptional skills and expertise in the field of medicine. The medical staff at AIIMS Delhi recently received acclaim from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for completing a challenging surgery on a fetal heart the size of a grape in just 90 seconds. Under ultrasound guidance, the treatment, known as balloon dilation of a blocked valve in the baby's heart, was carried out with the utmost care and accuracy. In order to increase blood flow and eventually the baby's heart development, the doctors used a balloon catheter to unblock the blocked valve. This successful procedure is proof of the exceptional knowledge and expertise of Indian doctors, who have continuously worked hard to push the boundaries of medical innovation. The team of interventional cardiologists and fetal medicine specialists from the Department of Cardiology & Cardiac Anesthesia, along with the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology of AIIMS, worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the mother and the fetus. This rare procedure is a game-changer for babies with serious heart diseases, as it can diagnose and treat them in the mother's womb. Performing such a procedure is challenging and risky, but the team of doctors at AIIMS Delhi displayed remarkable skill and courage to achieve success. In his tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his pride and appreciation for the team of doctors at AIIMS Delhi for their remarkable achievement. He lauded their dexterity and innovation in performing this rare and challenging procedure on a grape-size heart of a fetus in just 90 seconds. PM Modi's words of encouragement and recognition are a testament to the exceptional work being done by India's healthcare professionals in advancing medical technology and improving patient outcomes. Their commitment and dedication to their work have brought hope and healing to countless lives and inspired a generation of young doctors to follow in their footsteps.

17 Mar 2023

Positive Reads

Lay Back! Sitting for Long Hours Isn’t Bad for Health

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Exeter and University College London has found that sitting for long hours may not be as harmful to health as previously thought. The study, which was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, analyzed data from over one million people and found that there was no increased risk of death for those who sat for more than eight hours a day. This finding challenges the longstanding belief that prolonged sitting is harmful to health, as previous research has suggested that sitting for extended periods of time increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. However, the researchers caution that their study does not mean that sitting for long hours is healthy or that people should not try to incorporate more physical activity into their daily routines. Instead, the study suggests that the negative effects of sitting may be offset by other factors, such as a person's overall level of physical activity and diet. The researchers also pointed out that their study only looked at the relationship between sitting and mortality, and did not examine the potential impacts of prolonged sitting on other health outcomes. In conclusion, while sitting for long hours may not increase the risk of death, it is still important to maintain a healthy lifestyle through regular physical activity and a balanced diet.

21 Dec 2022

Positive Reads

Know More About the Benefits of Having an Early Dinner

We all know how important it is to have a balanced diet to enjoy good health. However, few people know about the proper time to have food, especially dinner. There have always been debates and discussions on the correct frequency and quantity of meals, but one thing is certain- eating dinner early is extremely beneficial. Let us see how an early dinner has positive effects on our health. Induces Weight Loss Eating dinner early aids in weight loss as you are more likely to consume fewer calories. Experts are of the opinion that the ideal time to have dinner is by 7 p.m. By wrapping up dinner early, the body tends to burn calories which otherwise would have been stored as fat. Improves Mood and Energy Levels Eating early keeps the mood elevated and energy levels high so that you can efficiently perform your duties until bedtime. Early dinner helps your body to stabilize blood sugar levels which in turn makes you feel less fatigued and irritable. Improves Digestion Eating dinner and going to bed without a sufficient gap leads to many problems like acid reflux, gas, bloating, or abdominal pain which are symptoms of indigestion. Food needs to be digested properly before lying down. Therefore, it is advisable to leave a long gap between dinner and sleep so that the digestive system can function effectively. Promotes Better Sleep I have observed that whenever I have a heavy meal just before sleep, I get bad dreams that night. Well, that is my personal observation and might not hold true for all, but it has been proved that eating dinner close to bedtime disrupts sleep and can affect your REM or deep sleep, causing restlessness or sleeplessness. An early dinner leads to proper digestion of food before dinner time thus inducing sound sleep. Improves Heart Health Eating late makes one eat more. This often leads to an increased calorie intake which when not burnt is converted into triglycerides, a fatty acid that increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Therefore, always have your dinner early to reduce the risk of triglycerides formation. You may not be able to sleep early due to work pressures or the lure of series, movies or social media, but do find time to enjoy an early dinner so that you remain healthy and happy.

21 Oct 2019

Positive Reads

Global Inspirations

This Man Spends the Coldest Nights Searching for the Homeless and Guides Them to Shelter

B.B. McGowan never takes anything for granted now. He was homeless and used to sleep on the streets of Dallas, Texas until people from Oak Lawn United Methodist Church helped him to get sober and rehabilitated him. McGowan is full of appreciation for the kind-heartedness and generosity of the church folk and he has decided to pass on the good work. Instead of spending chilly evenings in the warmth and comfort of his house, he jumps into a church van and plies through the streets searching for homeless people. He knows how it is to sleep on the streets and therefore, he is compelled to help the homeless. As soon as he spots a homeless person, he guides him/her gently into his van and drops the helpless person at the nearest homeless shelter. McGowen’s mission is to give back to the people who are struggling to get back on their feet. At times, it becomes freezing cold as temperature dips to single digits. After he became sober, McGowen has a whole new appreciation for life and people and he wants others who are like his former self to feel the change and experience the richness of life.

15 Nov 2019

Global Inspirations

A ‘Broken’ Heart can be mended by 3D- Bioprinted Patch.

According to new research findings, a scarred heart tissue caused by a heart attack can be treated by a 3D- bioprinted patch. This research has been done by a team led by the University of Minnesota biomedical engineering researchers who have successfully come up with revolutionary 3D-bioprinted patch. Due to heart attack, a patient loses blood flow to the heart muscle which causes cells to die. Human bodies are not equipped to replace heart muscle cells thus damaged. At that place in heart, a scarred tissue is formed, which may cause further ailment. During this study, the researchers used laser-based 3D-bioprinting techniques. They incorporated stem cells which were taken from adult human heart cells. These cells grew on a matrix and started to beat in a dish synchronously in the lab. After this cell patch was incorporated on a mouse following an induced heart attack, the scientists found remarkable improvement in functional capacity after just a month, according to ‘University of Minnesota Twin Cities.’ As the patch was created from cells and structural proteins from the heart, it became part and parcel of the body. As such, no more surgeries were needed for the same ailment.

23 Apr 2017

Global Inspirations