Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 17.5 million people die from cardiovascular disease (CVD) every year, representing 31% of all global deaths.

While heart disease can be caused by several factors, such as genetics and lifestyle, there have been several major breakthroughs in heart disease treatments in 2015.

1. PCSK9 Inhibitors

PCSK9 Inhibitors are a new class of drugs that lower LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. These drugs work by blocking PCSK9, a protein that breaks down LDL receptors in the liver.

By blocking PCSK9, the drugs increase the number of LDL receptors, which then remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. Clinical trials have shown that PCSK9 Inhibitors can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol levels, even in patients who are already taking statins.

2. Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) for Heart Failure

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are a type of medication commonly used to treat high blood pressure.

However, in 2015, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that ARBs can also improve outcomes in patients with heart failure. The study found that ARBs reduced the risk of death and hospitalization in patients with heart failure by 20%.

3. Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR)

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to replace aortic valves in patients who are considered high-risk for open-heart surgery.

In TAVR, a catheter is inserted through the groin and guided to the heart, where a new valve is implanted. In 2015, the FDA approved the use of TAVR for all patients with severe aortic stenosis who are not candidates for open-heart surgery.

4. Salt Reduction Programs

Salt reduction programs are initiatives aimed at reducing the amount of salt in the diet. High salt consumption is a major risk factor for heart disease, as it can lead to hypertension and other cardiovascular problems.

In 2015, several countries, including the UK and the US, launched national salt reduction programs, which aim to reduce the population’s salt intake by 30% by 2025.

5. Myocardial Regeneration Therapy

Myocardial regeneration therapy is a new approach to treating heart disease, which aims to regenerate damaged heart tissue. In 2015, a clinical trial of a new myocardial regeneration therapy showed promising results.

The therapy involves using a patient’s own stem cells, which are injected into the damaged heart tissue to regenerate new cells. The trial found that patients who received the treatment had an improvement in heart function and a reduction in scar tissue formation.

6. Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs

Cardiac rehabilitation programs are structured programs that aim to improve the physical and emotional health of patients with heart disease.

In 2015, a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that cardiac rehabilitation programs can significantly reduce the risk of death in patients with heart disease. The study found that patients who participated in cardiac rehabilitation programs had a 35% reduction in mortality compared to those who did not participate in the programs.

7. Anti-Inflammatory Agents to Treat Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs when fatty deposits, or plaques, build up in the arteries.

In 2015, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that canakinumab, an anti-inflammatory agent, can reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke in patients with a history of heart disease. The study found that canakinumab reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 15%, compared to a placebo.

8. Personalized Medicines for Heart Disease

Personalized medicine is an approach to healthcare that involves tailoring treatment to the individual patient based on their unique genetic makeup. In 2015, several studies were published on the use of personalized medicine for heart disease.

These studies found that personalized medicines can improve outcomes in patients with heart disease, as well as reduce the risk of adverse side effects from medications.

9. Pulse Wave Velocity Testing

Pulse wave velocity testing is a non-invasive test that measures the speed at which blood travels through the arteries. In 2015, a study of more than 17,000 patients found that pulse wave velocity testing can predict the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The study found that patients with high pulse wave velocity were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, even if they had no other risk factors, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol.

10. Remote Patient Monitoring

Remote patient monitoring is a healthcare technology that allows patients to monitor their health from home, using mobile devices and other technology.

In 2015, several studies found that remote patient monitoring can improve outcomes in patients with heart disease. These studies found that remote patient monitoring can reduce hospitalizations for heart failure and improve patient adherence to treatment plans.