A new study has identified a genetic link between depression and heart disease, potentially paving the way for new treatments that target both conditions. Researchers discovered a ‘gene module’ consisting of 256 co-expressed genes that play a role in the development of both diseases.
In a remarkable turn of events, a man who suffered a cardiac arrest while on the toilet was saved thanks to his girlfriend hearing his phone fall. Chris Rowell, now 52, collapsed in January 2021 and his heart stopped. But his partner, Becka, heard the noise and rushed to his aid. With the help of their nurse neighbor, they performed CPR for 20 minutes until paramedics arrived. Rowell was rushed to the hospital and spent three days in a coma before undergoing a balloon angioplasty. Fast forward to 2023, Rowell has now completed the London Marathon to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. He ran the 26.2-mile course in just under five hours, raising an incredible £2,500 for the charity.
Millions of overweight or obese Medicare patients with heart conditions may now be eligible for coverage of the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy under a new indication. The drug, approved by the FDA last month to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack, is already covered by Medicare for people with diabetes. The Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that 3.6 million Medicare beneficiaries could be eligible for coverage of Wegovy for its new indication, but uptake may be limited by its high cost and potential side effects.
Metformin, a drug commonly used to treat diabetes, has shown potential anti-inflammatory effects that could slow down the aging process and reduce the risk of age-related diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Studies have suggested that metformin may lower the risk of certain cancers, improve cardiovascular outcomes, and reduce the risk of dementia and mild cognitive decline. While the evidence is observational, scientists are conducting a clinical study to examine the effects of metformin on healthy older adults and its potential to lengthen lifespan.
