New research links statin use to reduced cognitive decline but uncovers a curious phenomenon: African American patients who stopped taking statins appeared to reap a greater cognitive benefit than those who continued taking this cholesterol-lowering medication. Medscape Medical News
An observational study of Latter-day Saints Mormons suggests that fasting may be a key driver of reduced cardiovascular disease in this group. Medscape Medical News
Otherwise healthy young women who are past users of oral contraceptives have a 20% to 30% increased risk for carotid or femoral atherosclerosis vs women who have never used the pill. Medscape Medical News
Heart disease management programs are effective in the primary care setting, according to a report in the November issue of Heart. Reuters Health Information
The FDA has approved revisions to the safety labeling for aliskiren hemifumarate tablets (Tekturna), valsartan tablets (Diovan), and estradiol 0.06% gel (EstroGel). Medscape Medical News
A new study shows term infants with congenital heart disease who underwent brain imaging prior to corrective surgery showed widespread brain abnormalities similar to those seen in premature infants. Medscape Medical News
In a small randomized prospective trial, children who heard music while undergoing cast application or removal had heart rate declines, while those who did not hear music had heart rate increases. Medscape Medical News
