Heart disease remains the number one killer of men and women. The research highlighted in the research news focused on decreasing the risk factors like high blood pressure and high cholesterol and finding and refining lifestyle changes that can make a difference.

New information was released about drug combinations:

• A statement about combination drug Vytorin was released in February. It stated that although the drug helped lower some cholesterol levels it did not slow or lower arterial plaque build-up as hoped.
• A study published in May reviewed the potential of combining well-known high blood pressure medications, ACE-inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers. The combination was no better than the single drug in preventing further illness or death. The study also suggested the combination may have some additional kidney risks.

More studies have supported that changing our habits can lead to better heart health.

• Long periods of sitting at our desks, more than 2-3 hours at a time, may increase the risk of blood clots.
• Results from the Nurse’s Study and the Health Professional Study suggested that caffeine consumption was not found to have a significant association with heart disease.
• Red meat may increase blood pressure for women over aged 45. Rates of blood pressure increased as the amount of consumed red meat increased.
• Walking can help men reduce their cholesterol levels according to a study that had men walk for 12 weeks, aiming to use 300 calories on each walk.

A clash of technology was also discovered. The popular MP3 and iPod player headphones may cause interference with heart devices like implanted defibrillators or pacemakers when less than 1.2 inches (3 cm) away.