Heart Disease Fight Helped By Classifying Obesity a Disease

June 25, 2013, ST. LOUIS - Obesity is now classified as a disease by the American Medical Association. Experts hope the new definition will help in the fight against Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which are linked to obesity. Michael … Continued

Gandolfini Heart Attack Highlights Cardiovascular Risk in Men

June 21, 2013, ST. LOUIS - While many were surprised of “Sopranos” star James Gandolfini’s death from a heart attack at 51, it’s something people who specialize in heart disease see all too often. “Unfortunately, it’s way more common than … Continued

New Procedure Reduces Stroke Risk in Atrial Fibrillation Patients

June 17, 2013, ST. LOUIS – Cardiac specialists at Saint Louis University Hospital are among the first in the region to perform a new procedure reducing stroke risk for patients in atrial fibrillation (AFIB) and in turn eliminate their need … Continued

Hybrid Maze Procedure Treats AFIB Without Open Chest

April 22, 2013, ST. LOUIS – Cardiac specialists at Saint Louis University Hospital are performing a new minimally-invasive “Hybrid” approach to treating atrial fibrillation (AFIB) that combines surgery and catheter-based techniques to put a patient’s heart back into proper rhythm. … Continued

Are sugary sodas bad for your heart?

A recent study presented by the American Heart Association found 180,000 deaths worldwide may be linked to sugar-sweetened beverages. According to the study: “Sugar-sweetened beverages are consumed throughout the world, and contribute to excess body weight, which increases the risk … Continued

FDA Issues Heart Warning About the Z-Pack

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns the antibiotic azithromycin — better known perhaps as the “Z-Pack” — may carry heart risks. In a statement, the FDA says: “…that azithromycin (Zithromax or Zmax) can cause abnormal changes in the electrical activity … Continued

SLU Hospital Cardiology Chief: Mediterranean Diet Reduces Heart Attack Risk

ST. LOUIS - A new study says the heart healthy Mediterranean diet can lower heart attack and stroke risk in high risk patients by 30%. In a multicenter trial in Spain — results of which were published February 25 in … Continued

New Implantable Device at Saint Louis University Hospital Diagnoses Irregular Heart Rhythms

ST. LOUIS - Cardiologists at Saint Louis University Hospital have a new implantable tool to monitor patients’ irregular heart rhythms to prevent repeat strokes or fainting issues. The Reveal DX device –about the size of a standard USB drive – … Continued