The heart is a vital muscular organ in humans and other animals that pumps blood through the blood vessels of the circulatory system to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the body’s tissues and remove carbon dioxide and other wastes. Located in the chest cavity, slightly to the left of the center, the human heart typically weighs between 250 to 350 grams and operates through a complex electrical system that regulates its rhythm. Structurally, it consists of four chambers: two upper atria and two lower ventricles. The heart works in a synchronized manner: the right side receives deoxygenated blood from the body and pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation, while the left side receives oxygenated blood from the lungs and pumps it out to the rest of the body. This continuous flow of blood is crucial for maintaining life, supporting all bodily functions through the delivery of oxygen and nutrients and the removal of metabolic wastes.
A new study indicates that daily strawberry consumption may significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, underscoring the health benefits of this popular fruit. Strawberries,…
Two new, basic research studies in rodents (mice and rats) analyzed the impacts that alcohol may have on the heart. In a mouse study, abnormal…
A new study has demonstrated that etripamil, a home-administered nasal spray, safely and effectively treats PSVT, a condition causing rapid heart rhythms, potentially minimizing hospital…
A study comparing human and great ape hearts reveals significant evolutionary adaptations in humans, including smoother, less trabeculated heart muscles that improve cardiac function to…
A study identified undiagnosed heart valve disease in 28% of people over 60, emphasizing the importance of better screening in managing health in older adults….
New research identifies a possible method to prevent permanent scarring and heart failure after a myocardial infarction. A recent study conducted by researchers at Massachusetts…
Air pollution significantly worsens cardiovascular risks in cancer survivors, contributing to higher morbidity and mortality, with the most profound impacts on disadvantaged populations. Although modern…
Adopting new PREVENT equations could lead to a significant reduction in statin recommendations, impacting 40% of currently eligible U.S. adults, and highlights the importance of…
Scientists have developed a method to regenerate heart muscle cells in mice, potentially offering new treatments for heart defects and heart attack recovery. Researchers at…
A study reveals that heat exposure boosts myocardial blood flow and induces ischemia in some with coronary artery disease, suggesting high-risk individuals should avoid excessive…
New research investigated the risks associated with energy drink consumption using data from a cohort of sudden cardiac arrest survivors at the Mayo Clinic. A…
University of Florida research reveals that orange peel extracts may significantly lower cardiovascular disease risk, offering a promising use for this common agricultural byproduct. New…
A new study suggests that higher lifestyle scores could be linked to a positive impact on risk factors for heart disease, potentially influencing the aging…
A comprehensive study published in BMJ Medicine reveals that while regular fish oil supplement usage might increase the risk of heart disease and stroke in…
OHSU is part of an international clinical trial studying a potential treatment for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. People with a common heart condition demonstrated significantly improved oxygen…
Researchers improved MRI accuracy for diagnosing heart failure in women, enabling earlier detection and treatment, which could significantly impact patient outcomes. An important new research…
Weight Loss Drug Linked With Reduced Need for Diuretics in Heart Failure Patients Semaglutide reduces the need for loop diuretic use and dose, and has…
As time progresses, the probability of developing cardiomyopathy increases, yet the overall risk is still minimal. A study presented at the American College of Cardiology’s…