This feature story will cover some of the most notable strides that have been made in heart health in America since Heart Month began. It will also give readers a look ahead at some interesting heart-related advancements to expect in the future, from the perspective of several ACC cardiologists who will be interviewed.

A significant portion of the American population has Type 2 diabetes, thanks in large part to the American diet and lifestyle. These patients have a much higher risk of heart problems. is story will cover how patients can manage diabetes and heart disease, as well as give diabetes patients some tips on how to prevent heart problems from developing in the rst place.

Heart Disease and Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea and heart problems go en go hand-in-hand. Sleep episodes, where a person pauses breathing five to 30 times per hour (or more), prevents restful sleep and is associated with high blood pressure, arrhythmia, stroke and heart failure. This story will cover treatment options that are available, as well as lifestyle choices that may alleviate the problem.

Living with Heart Failure

Heart failure is a common condition where the heart muscle isn’t strong enough to pump enough blood to match the body’s needs. It often tops the list for the most common readmission to a hospital. is article will cover treatment options, including devices, medications and surgical options to help control heart failure. It will also look at lifestyle changes that may help patients self-manage the condition at home and avoid costly hospital readmissions.

The Importance of Clinical Trials

Why are clinical trials so important, and should patients consider participating in one? What are the bene ts and pitfalls? How does the process work? What happens if the medication or procedure does (or doesn’t) work? This feature will cover all these questions and include perspectives from device makers, pharmaceutical companies and, of course, patients.

Latest Treatments for Valve Disease

Every year, about 5 million people in the U.S. are diagnosed with heart valve disease. Valve repair and replacement has typically required open-heart surgery. However, more patients are now eligible for a less-invasive procedure called transaortic valve replacement/repair (TAVR). In this feature story, we’ll cover the latest FDA eligibility requirements, and highlight patient stories.

Additional Feature Stories to be
Covered During the Year

• Cancer treatments and heart disease: Some chemotherapy drugs can lead to heart problems later in life. And heart patients are sometimes limited in chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment options. How can patients manage these two conditions?
• Recipes revamped: How can you makeover your favorite recipes to be healthier for your heart? We’ll have a dietitian weigh in.
• Strengthening the chapter/hospital partnership: It’s not always easy to navigate these relationships. For those with strong relationships, what’s their secret?
• Adult congenital heart specialists: is relatively new medical subspecialty, introduced by the American Board of Medical Specialties in 2012, means adults with CHDs now have access to specialty care. is is an important advancement because only about 10% of adult patients are seeking appropriate care from adult congenital cardiologists, and it is estimated that, at most, only 50% of those with adult congenital heart disease receive any sort of cardiovascular care.

More stories will be determined throughout the year.