Health News

Does Toking Take a Toll on the Ticker?
Smoking marijuana may increase the chances of heart attack immediately after use. For those who have had a heart attack, continued pot smoking may be linked to a shorter life span.
Smoking Hurts Bypass Odds
There are a lot of reasons to quit smoking. Improved outcomes in bypass surgery is one of them. Quit now and be healthier sooner and later.
The Perfect Heart Attack Drug
Cocaine overdoses can often end up in heart attacks. But long-term habitual cocaine use can also change the structure of the heart to set it up for a heart attack not from an overdose.
Smoking Bans Lower Heart Attacks
Anti-smoking rules now allow four out of five Americans to enjoy clean air in most public places. The icing on the cake showed a reduced chance of heart attack for non-smokers.
Where You Live Impacts Your Heart
There has been a steady decline in the number of Americans with coronary heart disease in recent years, yet rates vary by race and ethnicity, and residents of some states have a risk that is more than double other geographic regions.
Do Smoking Women Weaken Hearts?
Smoking doesn't discriminate -- leading to health risks for anyone who picks up the habit. For women, that risk may be exaggerated after a heart attack.
U.S. Plan Announced to Cut Heart Attacks
Working vigorously to reduce cardiovascular deaths, U.S. health officials have announced a national program that partners with private insurance companies to prevent one million heart attacks and strokes over five years.
Label Warnings Updated for Chantix
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials have approved an updated drug label for smoking cessation medication varenicline (Chantix) with stronger warnings.
Chantix Linked to 72% Increase in Heart Problems
Cigarette smokers may be ready to kick their habit, but a popular smoking cessation drug may only add health risks. A new study indicates that Chantix (varenicline) may come with a heightened risk of serious heart problems.