World Heart Day

?Discovery of Heart and Mythology

The heart has long been a symbol of both physical and emotional significance in human culture, and its discovery and symbolism have deep roots in mythology and history. Here are some aspects of the heart's discovery and its role in mythology:

1. Ancient Views on the Heart:

• In ancient cultures such as those in Egypt, Greece, and India, the heart was recognized as a vital organ responsible for circulating blood. However, their understanding of its function was often intertwined with spiritual and mythological beliefs.
• The ancient Egyptians believed that the heart, along with other vital organs, would be weighed against a feather in the afterlife as part of the judgment process.

2. Heart in Greek Mythology:

• In Greek mythology, the heart was often associated with emotions and the seat of the soul. It was believed that the heart was the source of a person's feelings, thoughts, and desires.
• The Greek goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, was sometimes depicted holding a heart or symbolizing love, emphasizing the emotional significance of the heart.

3. Aztec Sacrificial Hearts:

• The Aztecs, in their mythology and religious practices, believed that the heart (the "Ihcuac Ome," or "precious blood") was essential for offering to their gods. Human sacrifices were conducted, and the hearts of victims were ritually removed as offerings to appease the gods and ensure the continuation of life.

4. The Heart in Medieval and Renaissance Thought:

• During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the heart continued to be associated with emotions and love. The concept of the "Sacred Heart of Jesus" emerged during this period, representing Christ's love and compassion for humanity.
• Leonardo da Vinci's anatomical studies in the 15th century contributed to a better understanding of the heart's structure and function, separating scientific knowledge from purely mythological beliefs.

• 5. Modern Discovery of the Heart:
• In the 17th century, William Harvey, an English physician, made significant contributions to our understanding of the circulatory system, demonstrating that the heart pumps blood through the body in a closed circulatory system.
• As scientific knowledge advanced, the heart's role as a vital organ became increasingly clear, separating it from its earlier mythological and symbolic associations.

• While the heart has a rich history in mythology and cultural symbolism, modern medicine and science have provided us with a much deeper understanding of its physical functions. Today, the heart is recognized as a vital organ responsible for pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body, sustaining life, and supporting emotional experiences in a physiological sense. However, it continues to hold deep emotional and symbolic significance in various cultures worldwide.Functions of the heart

• The heart is a vital organ in the human body with the primary function of pumping blood to supply oxygen and nutrients to all the body's cells while also removing waste products. This continuous circulation of blood is essential for sustaining life and maintaining the proper functioning of various bodily systems. Here are the key functions of the heart:

1. Pumping Blood: The primary function of the heart is to pump blood. It serves as a muscular pump that contracts rhythmically to propel blood throughout the circulatory system.
2. Oxygenation: The heart pumps oxygen-poor blood from the body's tissues into the lungs, where it is oxygenated. Oxygen-rich blood is then returned to the heart.
3. Nutrient Delivery: Along with oxygen, the heart transports nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids to various cells in the body. These nutrients are essential for cellular metabolism and energy production.
4. Waste Removal: Blood carries metabolic waste products, including carbon dioxide and other toxins, away from cells. The heart transports this waste to the lungs, where it is expelled from the body during exhalation.
5. Regulation of Blood Pressure: The heart helps regulate blood pressure by adjusting the force and rate of its contractions. This ensures that blood flows at the right pressure to supply tissues with adequate oxygen and nutrients.
6. Circulation of Hormones: Hormones produced by various glands in the body are carried by the bloodstream to target organs and tissues. The heart plays a critical role in distributing these hormones throughout the body.
7. Immune System Support: The circulatory system, which is closely linked to the heart, plays a role in transporting immune cells and antibodies throughout the body to help defend against infections and diseases.
8. Temperature Regulation: Blood circulation also contributes to temperature regulation in the body. Blood carries heat from the core to the extremities, helping to maintain a stable body temperature.
9. Maintenance of pH Balance: The heart and circulatory system assist in maintaining the body's pH balance by transporting acids and bases to and from cells, tissues, and organs.
10. Stabilization of Electrolytes: The heart, through the blood, helps maintain the balance of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium in the body, which is crucial for proper cellular function.

In summary, the heart is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells, removing waste products, regulating blood pressure, supporting the immune system, and helping maintain various physiological balances essential for overall health and well-being. It is a central component of the circulatory system, working tirelessly to ensure the body's organs and tissues receive the necessary resources for their proper functioning.

Which tests can help in the assessment of cardiac health

Assessing cardiac health involves a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and various cardiac tests and diagnostic procedures. The choice of tests depends on the patient's symptoms, risk factors, and the clinical judgment of healthcare professionals. Here are some common tests and assessments used to evaluate cardiac health:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): This test records the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time. It is used to diagnose arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other heart conditions.
2. Echocardiogram: This is an ultrasound test that provides images of the heart's structure and function, including its chambers, valves, and the way blood flows through it. It is useful for assessing heart size, wall motion, and valve function.
3. Stress Test: Stress tests, such as the exercise stress test or pharmacological stress test, evaluate how the heart responds to increased workload. They are used to diagnose coronary artery disease (CAD) and assess exercise capacity.
4. Holter Monitor: A Holter monitor is a portable device that records the heart's electrical activity continuously for 24 to 48 hours. It is used to detect and diagnose intermittent arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats.
5. Cardiac Catheterization (Angiography): In this invasive procedure, a catheter is inserted into the heart's blood vessels to assess the coronary arteries' condition and check for blockages or narrowings. It can help diagnose coronary artery disease and guide interventions like angioplasty and stent placement.
6. Cardiac CT (Computed Tomography) Angiography: This non-invasive imaging test uses X-rays to create detailed images of the coronary arteries and assess the presence of blockages or plaques.
7. Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Cardiac MRI provides highly detailed images of the heart's structure and function. It is useful for assessing heart muscle damage, heart valve function, and congenital heart defects.
8. Nuclear Stress Test: This test combines a stress test with the injection of a radioactive tracer to evaluate blood flow in the heart muscle. It is particularly useful for detecting areas of reduced blood flow (ischemia) and assessing the extent of coronary artery disease.
9. Blood Tests: Blood tests can measure various markers related to cardiac health, including cholesterol levels (LDL, HDL), triglycerides, cardiac enzymes (troponin, creatine kinase-MB), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Elevated levels of certain markers can indicate heart disease or risk factors.
10. CT Calcium Scoring: This non-invasive test uses a CT scanner to measure the amount of calcium buildup in the coronary arteries, providing an estimate of the risk of coronary artery disease.
11. Carotid Ultrasound: This test assesses the health of the carotid arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain. It can help detect blockages or narrowing that may increase the risk of stroke.
12. Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM): This test involves wearing a portable blood pressure monitor for 24 hours to assess blood pressure variations throughout the day and night, helping diagnose hypertension and monitor treatment effectiveness.
13. Electrophysiological Studies (EPS): EPS is an invasive procedure used to evaluate and diagnose arrhythmias. Electrodes are placed inside the heart to study its electrical conduction system.

Cardiac health assessment is tailored to individual patient needs, and healthcare providers use a combination of these tests and assessments to diagnose, monitor, and manage cardiac conditions. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which tests are appropriate based on your specific medical history, symptoms, and risk factors.

Lifestyle modifications that promote cardiac health

Lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in promoting cardiac health and reducing the risk of heart disease. These changes can improve heart health, lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and support overall cardiovascular well-being. Here are some lifestyle modifications that promote cardiac health:

• Healthy Diet:Eat a Balanced Diet: Consume a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (such as fish, poultry, beans, and legumes), and low-fat or fat-free dairy products.Limit Saturated and Trans Fats: Reduce intake of saturated fats (found in red meat and full-fat dairy products) and trans fats (found in many processed and fried foods).Choose Healthy Fats: Opt for unsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel).Limit Added Sugars and Salt: Minimize the consumption of sugary beverages, sweets, and high-sodium foods. Read food labels to identify hidden sources of sugar and salt.
• Regular Physical Activity:Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, swimming, cycling) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise (e.g., running, high-intensity interval training) per week.Incorporate strength training exercises at least two days a week to build muscle and support metabolism.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight:Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight through a combination of diet and exercise.Aim for a balanced calorie intake that aligns with your energy expenditure.
• Quit Smoking:Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Quitting smoking is one of the most significant steps you can take to improve cardiac health.
• Limit Alcohol Intake:If you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation. That typically means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
• Manage Stress:Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy.
• Get Adequate Sleep:Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Poor sleep can contribute to heart problems and other health issues.
• Regular Check-ups:Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiac health.Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for screenings and tests, especially if you have risk factors for heart disease.
• Medication Adherence:If you've been prescribed medications for conditions like hypertension or high cholesterol, take them as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Stay Hydrated:Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall health and help maintain blood pressure.
• Social Connections:Maintain strong social connections and relationships, as social isolation and loneliness can contribute to heart problems.
• Limit Processed Foods:Minimize your intake of highly processed and packaged foods, as they often contain unhealthy fats, excess salt, and added sugars.
• Follow a Heart-Healthy Plan:Consider following a specific heart-healthy eating plan, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet or the Mediterranean diet, both of which emphasize heart-healthy foods.

Remember that lifestyle changes should be sustainable and tailored to your individual needs and preferences. Consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance on making these modifications to improve your cardiac health. Additionally, regular medical check-ups are essential to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your heart-healthy lifestyle plan.

Cardiac Super Foods

"Cardiac superfoods" are foods that are particularly beneficial for heart health due to their nutrient content and potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Including these foods in your diet can help support overall cardiac well-being. Here are some cardiac superfoods:

1. Fatty Fish: Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, trout, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower triglycerides, reduce inflammation, and decrease the risk of heart disease. Aim to include fatty fish in your diet at least twice a week.
2. Berries: Berries like blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. They can help reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and lower the risk of heart disease.
3. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and other nuts are excellent sources of unsaturated fats, fiber, and various heart-healthy nutrients. They can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease when consumed in moderation.
4. Oats: Oats are a good source of soluble fiber, which can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Consuming oatmeal or oat-based cereals regularly can be beneficial for heart health.
5. Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are rich in fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. They can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease when included in a balanced diet.
6. Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
7. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of heart disease by improving cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation.
8. Whole Grains: Foods like whole wheat, brown rice, quinoa, and whole-grain oats are high in fiber and can help lower the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol levels and improving blood sugar control.
9. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or more) contains flavonoids that have been associated with improved heart health. Enjoying a small amount of dark chocolate in moderation may have cardiovascular benefits.
10. Avocado: Avocados are a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They can help lower bad cholesterol levels and provide essential nutrients like potassium and fiber.
11. Flaxseeds and Chia Seeds: These seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans. They can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and support heart health when added to your diet.
12. Garlic: Garlic contains compounds that may help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Incorporating fresh garlic or garlic supplements into your meals may be beneficial.
13. Green Tea: Green tea is rich in catechins, antioxidants that may improve blood vessel function, reduce cholesterol levels, and support heart health.
14. Red Wine (in moderation): Moderate consumption of red wine has been associated with potential heart benefits due to its antioxidants, particularly resveratrol. However, it's essential to limit alcohol intake to recommended levels.

Remember that a heart-healthy diet should include a variety of these foods and be part of an overall healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, stress management, and not smoking. Additionally, individual dietary needs and restrictions may vary, so it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to create a personalized nutrition plan for optimal cardiac health.

New research in the field of cardiology(Heart Science)

Researchers have uncovered a protein produced by the immune system, suPAR, that causes atherosclerosis. Investigators say it's the first immune target to treat cardiovascular disease, which affects over 1 billion people worldwide. Researchers believe treatment could be developed within five years.

Smidt Heart Institute physician-researchers have developed an artificial intelligence tool that can effectively identify two heart conditions that can be difficult to diagnose.

Physician-scientists in the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai have created an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that can effectively identify and distinguish between two life-threatening heart conditions that are often easy to miss: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and cardiac amyloidosis. The new findings were published in JAMA Cardiology.? “These two heart conditions are challenging for even expert cardiologists to accurately identify, and so patients often go on for years to decades before receiving a correct diagnosis,” said David Ouyang, MD, a cardiologist in the Smidt Heart Institute and senior author of the study. “Our AI algorithm can pinpoint disease patterns that can’t be seen by the naked eye, and then use these patterns to predict the right diagnosis.”

The two-step, novel algorithm was used on over 34,000 cardiac ultrasound videos from Cedars-Sinai and Stanford Healthcare’s echocardiography laboratories. When applied to these clinical images, the algorithm identified specific features—related to the thickness of heart walls and the size of heart chambers—to efficiently flag certain patients as suspicious for having potentially unrecognized cardiac diseases.

References

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/12/221215104557.htm

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/newsroom/new-artificial-intelligence-tool-detects-often-overlooked-heart-diseases/