Top in cardiology: Highlights from American Heart Association Scientific Sessions

Healio’s coverage of the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions made up the majority of the top stories in cardiology last week.

New ways that clinicians can use information gleaned from Fitbits to a user’s cardiovascular benefit and recent data on how illicit drug use and excessive alcohol intake contribute to heart-related hospitalizations were some of the stories covered.

Read these and more top stories in cardiology below:

Fitbit Heart Study: Novel algorithm for wearable devices may identify undiagnosed atrial fibrillation

An algorithm used in Fitbit wearable devices showed the capability to identify asymptomatic atrial fibrillation, according to results of the Fitbit Heart Study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions. Read more.

Illicit drug use, excess alcohol intake may elevate risk for atrial fibrillation hospitalization

The use of illicit drugs and excess alcohol was associated with elevated risk for hospitalization for incident atrial fibrillation, according to two studies presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions. Read more.

Early results show promise of an oral PCSK9 inhibitor

In two early clinical studies, the first version of an oral PCSK9 inhibitor was well tolerated and effective for reducing LDL, according to phase 1 data reported at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions. Read more.

BP control decreased substantially during COVID19 pandemic

BP control declined among U.S. adults in 2020 compared with 2019, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a study of 24 health systems presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions. Read more.

Diabetes status decreases symptom perception for patients with atrial fibrillation

In a cohort of patients with documented atrial fibrillation, those with diabetes were less likely to perceive atrial fibrillation symptoms than those without the disease, according to new research. Read more.