There’s some genuinely good news in the fight against heart disease: Heart attack deaths have plummeted by nearly 90% over the past 50 years in the U.S., and overall deaths from heart disease have dropped by 66% among adults 25 and older, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

That’s a huge win.

“Over the past 50 years, our understanding of heart disease — what causes it and how to treat it — has improved dramatically,” said Dr. Sara King, lead author of the study and a resident at Stanford University School of Medicine. “People are surviving heart attacks today that would have been a death sentence decades ago.”

But Here’s the Catch: Other Heart Conditions Are on the Rise

While fewer people are dying from heart attacks, deaths from other heart-related conditions have been quietly climbing. In fact, non-heart attack cardiac deaths have increased by 81%, the study found.

That includes:

• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) – up 450% since 1970
• Heart failure – up 146%
• Hypertensive heart disease (caused by high blood pressure) – up 106%

In 1970, heart attacks made up more than half (54%) of all heart-related deaths. By 2022, that number dropped to 29%, as other forms of heart disease became more prominent.

“This shift is significant,” said Dr. Andrew Freeman, a cardiologist at National Jewish Health in Denver, who wasn’t involved in the study. “These days, people are less likely to die from a heart attack — but many are left dealing with chronic, debilitating conditions.”

Living Longer, But Not Necessarily Better

Surviving a heart attack doesn’t always mean you’re back to normal. “You might be alive,” Freeman explained, “but now you have heart failure, need a daily mix of medications, and feel short of breath just walking across the room. It’s one thing to survive — it’s another to feel healthy.”

What’s Driving the Rise in Other Heart Diseases?

Researchers say it comes down to a mix of lifestyle, aging, and chronic health conditions:

• Obesity: up from 15% in 1970 to 40% in 2022
• Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes: now affect nearly half of all U.S. adults
• High blood pressure: increased from 30% in 1978 to nearly 50% in 2022
• Poor diet and sedentary lifestyles: both common contributors

And let’s not forget the Baby Boomer effect: an aging population more prone to developing heart issues is also a major factor.

“All of these risk factors contribute to the ongoing burden of heart disease — especially when it comes to heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension-related conditions,” said Dr. Latha Palaniappan, senior author of the study and professor of cardiovascular medicine at Stanford.

What Needs to Happen Now? Prevention — and Starting Young

“Heart disease hasn’t disappeared,” Palaniappan said. “Our focus needs to shift toward prevention — and it needs to begin early, even in childhood.”

Experts say this means doubling down on:

• Healthy eating habits
• Regular physical activity
• Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
• Educating the public about the importance of early intervention

Because while it’s a win that more people survive heart attacks, the ultimate goal is living longer and feeling well while doing it.

Source: CNN – Deaths from heart attacks are way down. Here’s what’s killing us instead

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Getting the shingles vaccine could do more than just protect you from a painful rash — it might also lower your risk of heart disease and stroke, according to a new study from South Korea.

Published in the European Heart Journal, this large-scale study of more than one million people found that people aged 50 and older who received the shingles vaccine had a 23% lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The benefits were particularly strong for younger individuals and men, with the greatest reductions seen up to eight years after vaccination.

How the Shingles Vaccine Works for Heart Health

Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), is well known for causing a painful rash. But the virus can also trigger inflammation in blood vessels, which can lead to blood clots and increase the risk of heart disease. Researchers believe that by preventing shingles with vaccination, the vaccine may also reduce this cardiovascular risk.

Hayeon Lee, a coauthor of the study and researcher at Lee Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, explained that shingles-related nerve damage could also disrupt the heart’s rhythm, potentially leading to irregular palpitations or even cardiac arrest.

Who Benefits Most from the Shingles Vaccine?

The study found that the shingles vaccine may be particularly effective for males, people under 60, and even those with unhealthy lifestyles, such as smokers or heavy drinkers. These groups saw a more significant reduction in heart disease risk after vaccination.

Lee emphasized that this research underscores the broader benefits of vaccination, saying, “Vaccines are not just shields against infections, but essential tools for maintaining long-term health.”

A Bigger Picture for Public Health

While the study provides strong evidence of the shingles vaccine’s protective effects, experts caution that more research is needed to confirm a direct causal link between vaccination and reduced heart disease risk. Dr. Sharon Curhan, an epidemiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, noted that this study is the largest of its kind and offers compelling evidence for those considering the vaccine.

It’s also important to note that most adults have already been exposed to the VZV, even if they’ve never had chickenpox. According to the CDC, more than 99% of adults over 50 have had VZV exposure, which means many could benefit from the vaccine, even without a history of chickenpox.

Limitations of the Study

While the findings are promising, there are some important caveats. The study used the older live zoster vaccine, which is no longer available in most countries. This vaccine has since been replaced by Shingrix, a more effective two-dose vaccine. Dr. Pascal Geldsetzer, an assistant professor of medicine at Stanford, emphasized the need for further studies comparing the effectiveness of different vaccine versions and how they affect overall health.

Additionally, because this research relies on a large database rather than a controlled clinical trial, certain variables, like diet and adherence to treatment, may not have been fully accounted for.

Shingles Vaccine’s Other Health Benefits

The shingles vaccine’s potential goes beyond heart disease. Other studies have shown its ability to reduce the risk of dementia by 20%. Research published in April by Dr. Geldsetzer and his team found that the vaccine may help protect the brain from inflammation caused by shingles-related nerve damage.

The shingles vaccine’s benefits seem to extend to other long-term conditions as well, suggesting it could be an important part of maintaining overall health as we age.

Moving Forward

While the study provides valuable insights into the heart-health benefits of the shingles vaccine, experts agree that more research is needed to confirm these findings across diverse populations. The next steps will likely involve randomized clinical trials to get a clearer picture of how the vaccine can be used to prevent both shingles and cardiovascular disease.

Source: CNN – Shingles vaccine reduces risk of heart disease by 23%, study of one million people finds

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A startling new study has found that a group of synthetic chemicals commonly found in everyday plastic products may be linked to hundreds of thousands of deaths from heart disease each year.

The chemicals in question are phthalates — often referred to as “everywhere chemicals” because of how widely they’re used. These compounds are found in food containers, cosmetics, shampoos, perfumes, vinyl flooring, children’s toys, and countless other items many people use daily.

According to research published in the journal eBiomedicine, exposure to one specific phthalate — DEHP (Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate) — may have contributed to over 368,000 global deaths in 2018 among adults aged 55 to 64. That accounts for more than 10% of all global heart disease deaths in that age group.

“Phthalates trigger inflammation in the coronary arteries and can worsen existing heart conditions, leading to fatal events,” explained Dr. Leonardo Trasande, senior author of the study and professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.

Phthalates are also known to disrupt hormones, including testosterone — a critical factor in male heart health. Low testosterone in men has long been linked to increased cardiovascular risk.

The study found the highest share of phthalate-related heart disease deaths in:

• Africa: 30% of total deaths linked to DEHP
• East Asia and the Middle East: 25% combined

Lead author Sara Hyman described the findings as a wake-up call. “These chemicals pose a serious global health threat. It’s time for people and governments to take them seriously.”

Previous studies have already linked phthalates to:

• Reproductive issues in men and baby boys
• Asthma
• Obesity in children
• Certain cancers

A past U.S.-focused study by Trasande’s team found that phthalate exposure may lead to 91,000 to 107,000 premature deaths annually among Americans aged 55 to 64. That research estimated an economic toll of $40 to $47 billion per year in lost productivity.

Phthalates are used to make plastics softer and more flexible. You’ll often find them in:

• PVC pipes, vinyl flooring, and medical tubing
• Food packaging, detergents, and furniture
• Personal care products like soap, lotion, hair spray, and cosmetics

Exposure occurs through breathing, eating, drinking, or skin contact — particularly when heating plastics or using products that release phthalate-laden fragrance.

While environmental health experts are sounding alarms, the American Chemistry Council, which represents the chemical industry, declined to comment directly on the study. The group said its High Phthalates Panel is focused on highlighting the benefits of phthalates like DINP and DIDP.

Some scientists also pointed out a limitation: the study assumes that DEHP exposure affects populations around the world in the same way it does in the U.S., which may not account for differences in healthcare access or exposure levels.

The good news: there are practical steps you can take to reduce your exposure.

Simple ways to avoid phthalates:

• Ditch plastic food containers for glass, ceramic, stainless steel, or wood
• Never microwave food in plastic
• Avoid scented cleaning supplies, lotions, and air fresheners
• Choose fresh or frozen produce instead of canned or processed items
• Encourage frequent handwashing
• Steer clear of plastics labeled with recycling codes 3 (PVC), 6 (PS), and 7 (Other)

“Avoiding plastic wherever possible and cutting down on ultra-processed foods can make a real difference,” said Trasande.

Source: CNN – Common household plastics linked to thousands of global deaths from heart disease, study finds

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New Health Warning: Overdoing Tongue-Scraping May Have Unexpected Consequences

Tongue-scraping has been a popular dental practice for centuries, gaining renewed attention in recent years. Searches for “tongue scraper” have nearly doubled in the last two decades, according to Google Trends. It’s known for its ability to improve oral hygiene, freshen breath, and even enhance taste. However, some experts are raising concerns about an unexpected health risk: heart problems.

While tongue-scraping is widely touted for its dental benefits, a growing number of experts warn that it could have a surprising and potentially dangerous impact on heart health.

Tongue-scraping (or tongue-brushing) is a simple process that involves cleaning the tongue to remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells. It’s a practice commonly used to freshen breath and improve overall oral hygiene.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the most effective way to scrape the tongue is using a specific tool, which can be found at pharmacies for as little as $8. A metal scraper, recommended by Dr. Whitney White of Aspen Dental, is considered particularly hygienic and easy to use.

When used gently and sparingly, tongue-scraping helps eliminate plaque and bacteria, ensuring a cleaner mouth. Dr. Tenika Patterson, a dental hygienist, explains that tongue-scraping can be far more effective than brushing when it comes to removing plaque:

“Brushing can push dirt deeper into the surface, but scraping gets it all off easily.”

While tongue-scraping offers benefits, experts warn that the practice could introduce unforeseen risks, particularly for heart health.

Dr. Bradley Serwer, an interventional cardiologist, explains that aggressive or frequent tongue-scraping can cause microscopic cuts on the tongue. These tiny abrasions can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of a heart condition called endocarditis. Endocarditis is an infection of the heart valves that can lead to severe damage if left untreated.

Oral health has long been linked to overall heart health, with conditions like gingivitis known to contribute to heart disease. So, the potential for bacteria entering the bloodstream from tongue-scraping should not be taken lightly.

Although scraping your tongue gently once a day can help maintain a healthy mouth, experts warn that overdoing it may harm your heart health. Dr. White cautions that excessive scraping can disrupt the balance of good bacteria in your mouth, which is vital for the production of nitric oxide, a compound crucial for heart health.

“While gentle, regular scraping helps remove harmful bacteria, doing it too often can lower nitric oxide levels and increase the risk of high blood pressure,” Dr. White explains.

This is why moderation is key when it comes to tongue-scraping.

While tongue-scraping can improve oral hygiene, it should never replace regular brushing and flossing. Dr. Serwer stresses that maintaining healthy gums and teeth through regular visits to the dentist, along with brushing twice a day and flossing, is far more important than relying on tongue-scraping.

“The benefits of tongue-scraping are minimal compared to the importance of regular oral hygiene,” Dr. Serwer adds.

Experts agree that while tongue-scraping can play a small role in oral care, it’s not a critical step in your daily routine. In fact, Dr. White recommends scraping your tongue in moderation:

“Less is more when it comes to scraping. Keep your routine balanced for the best results for both your mouth and your body.”

If you’re a fan of tongue-scraping, there’s no need to stop—just be sure not to overdo it. Use a gentle touch, avoid scraping too frequently, and continue with your regular brushing and flossing. Tongue-scraping can be a helpful tool for freshening your breath and maintaining oral hygiene, but it should never replace the fundamental steps for keeping your mouth—and your heart—healthy.

Source: FOX News – This odd dental habit could spark heart health risks, experts warn

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The deaths of celebrated actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, have been the subject of an investigation, shedding light on the tragic final days of their lives. Hackman, a towering figure in Hollywood for decades, spent his later years living in seclusion, battling heart disease and Alzheimer’s. His wife, Arakawa, tragically passed away from hantavirus, a rare disease caused by infected rodent droppings, just one week before him. Here are the key takeaways from the ongoing investigation into their deaths:

1. Hackman May Not Have Known of His Wife’s Death

Gene Hackman’s battle with advanced Alzheimer’s disease appears to have significantly impacted his mental state during his final days. According to New Mexico Chief Medical Investigator, Dr. Heather Jarrell, Hackman was in a very poor state of health with severe heart disease, which ultimately led to his death. It’s believed that Hackman may not have even realized his wife passed away a week earlier, as his condition likely left him unaware of the situation.

Dr. Michael Baden, former New York City Medical Examiner, added that Hackman’s Alzheimer’s likely left him unable to process or understand his wife’s death, making his last week even more tragic.

2. The Couple’s Secluded Life and Delayed Discovery

Hackman and Arakawa were known to lead a private life, and authorities faced difficulties in piecing together the timeline of their deaths. The couple had not been seen for days, and when their bodies were discovered, they were in an advanced state of decomposition. Santa Fe Sheriff Adan Mendoza described them as a “very private family,” and the dry climate of Santa Fe contributed to the mummification of the bodies. Hackman had not eaten recently, though investigators found no signs of dehydration.

While investigators have not found evidence that Hackman tried to contact anyone after Arakawa’s death, friends of the couple, including Stuart Ashman, co-owner of Artes de Cuba gallery, expressed their sadness, saying that they had no idea of the couple’s situation. Ashman remarked, “It’s just really sad. And that she died a week before him. My God.”

3. Hantavirus Likely the Cause of Arakawa’s Death

Betsy Arakawa’s death is believed to have been caused by hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and potentially fatal lung infection contracted from infected rodent droppings. Arakawa was last seen on February 11 running errands in Santa Fe before returning home to their secluded property. While the exact source of the virus is still unknown, investigators found signs of rodents on the couple’s property. Symptoms of hantavirus are often flu-like, and Arakawa may have shown signs of infection before her passing.

Hantavirus is most commonly found in the U.S. in western states, and it can cause severe respiratory distress and organ failure. Arakawa’s death adds to the rare but devastating nature of this disease.

4. Hackman’s Legacy and Quiet Retirement

Gene Hackman’s career spanned decades, with notable roles in films such as The French Connection, Unforgiven, and Hoosiers, earning him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award. Despite his fame, Hackman largely retreated from the Hollywood scene, choosing to live a more secluded life with Arakawa in Santa Fe. He had a long-standing desire to avoid the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, instead cultivating a life of privacy and quietude.

Hackman and Arakawa, a classical pianist, met in the mid-1980s at a California gym and eventually moved to Santa Fe in the late 1980s. The couple lived in a Pueblo-style home on a hill with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Though Hackman wasn’t seen much in public, he was a well-respected figure in the New Mexico community, even serving on the board of trustees for the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum from 1997 to 2004.

5. The Tragic End of Two Reclusive Lives

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s deaths mark the end of a private, reclusive life lived far from the public eye. Hackman’s legendary career and personal life will be remembered by those who knew him and by fans of his acclaimed work in cinema. Their deaths, particularly the tragic circumstances of Arakawa’s hantavirus infection and Hackman’s death in the wake of Alzheimer’s disease, have highlighted the complexities of aging and the solitude they experienced in their final years.

Conclusion

The investigation into Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s deaths paints a poignant picture of their final days. Hackman, debilitated by Alzheimer’s and heart disease, may not have been aware of his wife’s passing. The couple’s seclusion in their Santa Fe home, combined with the rare causes of Arakawa’s death, adds a layer of sadness to the end of two reclusive lives. As fans and friends mourn, their deaths also raise awareness of the often-overlooked challenges of aging and illness in the public eye.

Source

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