Top cardiologist weighs in on Trump’s physical: ‘Losing some weight would help’

Results from President Donald Trump’s latest physical, released Feb. 14., reveal the president’s overall cholesterol has improved since last year’s check-up, according to the Associated Press. But Trump has also gained weight and is now classified as obese, which could raise his already elevated risk for heart disease.

Automated office BP readings subvert ‘white coat effect’ for more accurate numbers

Though many physicians are reluctant to change the status quo, a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine Feb. 4 suggests automated office blood pressure measurement (AOBP) is the way to go when recording a patient’s BP, since the approach bypasses the so-called “white coat effect” triggered by more traditional methods.

Paclitaxel-coated devices found safe in new study—but the debate isn’t over

Medtronic IN.PACT Admiral drug-coated balloon (DCB)

The IN.PACT Admiral drug-coated balloon. (Photo courtesy of Medtronic)

Paclitaxel-coated devices were found safe for the treatment of femoropopliteal artery revascularization in a JAMA Cardiology study published Feb. 12—the latest installment in a continuing debate over whether drug-coated stents and balloons raise long-term mortality risk in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD).