Critical Pathways in Cardiology (original) (raw)

Current Issue

Current Issue Highlights

Original Study

Age-adjusted Trends in the Diastolic and Systolic Heart Failure in the United States Over Recent Years Based on Race and Gender, With Higher Trends in Men and African Americans

Kirsch, Hannah; Hashemzadeh, Mehrtash; Movahed, Mohammad Reza Less

Critical Pathways in Cardiology. 24(4):e0405, December 2025.

Plain Language Summary This study analyzed hospital data from 2016 to 2020 to understand trends in heart failure hospitalizations in the U.S. It found that both systolic and diastolic heart failure hospitalization rates have increased significantly. Men and Black patients are more affected, with Black patients having the highest rates. In 2020, Black patients had a diastolic heart failure hospitalization rate of 418.3 per 100,000, compared to 284.8 for White patients. Similarly, systolic heart failure rates were 403.6 for Black patients versus 227.5 for White patients. These findings highlight growing demographic disparities in heart failure hospitalizations.

Text is machine generated and may contain inaccuracies. FAQ

Severity of Peripheral Artery Disease Predicting Clinical Outcomes and 30-day Nonelective Readmission in Patients Admitted for Atrial Fibrillation

Ascandar, Nameer; Simon, Joshini; Steinhoff, Jeffrey P.; More

Ascandar, Nameer; Simon, Joshini; Steinhoff, Jeffrey P.; Bera, Reetom; Tian, Herschel Less

Critical Pathways in Cardiology. 24(4):e0404, December 2025.

Plain Language Summary This study analyzed data from over 6 million hospital admissions for atrial fibrillation (AF) to understand how peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects patient outcomes. Patients were divided into groups: those without PAD, those with PAD, and those with critical limb ischemia (CLI). Results showed that patients with PAD had a 22% higher risk of in-hospital death, while those with CLI had a 264% higher risk compared to those without PAD. PAD also increased the risk of acute ischemic stroke. Additionally, PAD and CLI were associated with longer hospital stays, higher costs, and more frequent readmissions, highlighting the need for early PAD management.

Text is machine generated and may contain inaccuracies. FAQ

Call for Papers

_Critical Pathways in Cardiology_seeks high-quality manuscripts on all aspects of cardiovascular care. We welcome original research, reviews, and clinical studies, including clinical pathways (structured multidisciplinary care plans for specific clinical problems), registry information on guideline-directed care, innovative treatments, and diagnostic advancements. Our journal is a platform for clinical researchers to share findings and evidence-based practices, enhancing cardiovascular health.