Category Archives: Health

Severe Morning Headaches: Causes, Warning Signs, and What Your Body Is Trying to Tell You

By:- Dr. B K Madhusudhan, Lead Consultant, Neurology, Aster RV Hospital, Bangalore

Waking up with a severe headache can be distressing and may interfere with daily functioning. While an occasional morning headache can occur due to simple reasons like poor sleep or dehydration, repeated or intense headaches on waking often indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. From a medical point of view, morning headaches are usually linked to what happens to the body during sleep, including changes in oxygen levels, blood pressure, muscle tension and brain chemistry.

During sleep, breathing patterns, posture and hormone levels fluctuate. If sleep quality is poor, pain-regulating mechanisms in the brain are affected, making headaches more likely in the early hours of the morning. Morning headaches should not be dismissed, especially when they occur frequently or are unusually severe.

Common medical and lifestyle causes

One of the most significant medical causes of morning headaches is sleep apnea. In this condition, breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, reducing oxygen supply to the brain. This often results in a dull, pressure-type headache on waking along with symptoms such as loud snoring, dry mouth, and daytime fatigue. Insomnia and fragmented sleep can also trigger headaches by increasing stress hormones and muscle tension.

Teeth grinding during sleep places strain on the jaw and temple muscles, leading to tight, band-like headaches in the morning. Poor sleeping posture or incorrect pillow support can strain the neck and upper back muscles, causing headaches that start at the back of the head and radiate forward. Dehydration is another common cause, as fluid loss overnight can reduce blood volume and trigger head pain. Skipping meals or low blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes or those who fast, can also cause early-morning headaches.

Migraines often worsen in the early morning due to changes in sleep cycles and brain chemicals. These headaches may be accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, or visual disturbances. Certain medications, including frequent painkiller use, caffeine, or sleeping pills, can lead to rebound or withdrawal headaches that are felt soon after waking. Persistent morning headaches may also be linked to uncontrolled high blood pressure, especially when associated with throbbing pain at the back of the head.

Solutions, warning signs, and when to seek help

Addressing morning headaches starts with improving sleep quality. Maintaining regular sleep and wake times, using a supportive pillow, avoiding screens before bedtime and ensuring adequate hydration can significantly reduce symptoms. Managing stress, eating balanced meals and limiting caffeine and alcohol intake at night are also important preventive steps. If teeth grinding is suspected, dental evaluation and night guards may help. Treating underlying conditions such as sleep apnea or hypertension can dramatically improve morning headaches.

However, some morning headaches act as warning signs. Headaches that progressively worsen, are associated with vomiting, confusion, vision changes, limb weakness or wake a person from sleep require urgent medical evaluation. These symptoms may suggest increased pressure inside the skull, infections or neurological conditions that need prompt diagnosis.

In summary, waking up with a severe headache is not always harmless. While many causes are lifestyle-related and manageable, frequent or intense morning headaches can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Early recognition and appropriate care are essential to prevent complications and improve overall quality of life.

Optimum Nutrition Celebrates World Protein Day with Project Protein Thali, Launches Gold Standard Unflavoured Whey

Feb, 27: On the occasion of World Protein Day, Optimum Nutrition, the world’s 1 sports nutrition brand, today unveiled Project Protein Thali 2026, the next phase of its consumer awareness campaign focused on making every day Indian meals more protein-inclusive. As part of the initiative, the brand also announced the launch of Gold Standard Unflavoured Whey, its additive-free whey protein offering, developed to meet the growing demand for versatile and ingredient-transparent nutrition solutions.

As awareness around nutrition and fitness continues to rise in India, protein is increasingly being recognised as an essential macronutrient for muscle health, recovery, and overall wellbeing. However, a significant gap still exists between daily protein requirements and actual intake. Simultaneously, consumer preferences are evolving toward simpler, cleaner supplements with minimal ingredients, particularly among users who want to avoid artificial flavours and sweeteners or are looking for more versatile ways to incorporate protein into everyday diets.

Building on the ideology to make every home cooked meal protein rich, Project Protein Thali 2026 initiative aims to demonstrate how small changes in meal composition can significantly improve protein intake by making protein the hero of the plate. The initiative also expands the role of protein beyond post-workout consumption, positioning high-quality unflavoured whey as a convenient ingredient that can be added to regular foods such as rotis, dals, smoothies, and snacks to create more balanced meals.

Complementing the campaign, the newly launched Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey now Unflavoured with whey protein isolate as 1 ingredient, offering high quality protein that supports muscle recovery and performance. Crafted around a clean-label philosophy, it contains zero artificial flavours, zero added sweeteners, zero colors, and no additives, addressing growing consumer demand for cleaner ingredients and simplicity. Its neutral taste allows consumers to customize flavour easily while blending seamlessly into shakes, coffee, oats, and both sweet and savory everyday recipes, making protein easy to incorporate beyond the post workout routine.

Commenting on the campaign and new product launch, Sumit Mathur, CEO of Glanbia India said,

“Protein awareness in India is clearly on the rise, with more people recognising its role in supporting performance, recovery, and overall health. At the same time, we are witnessing a growing preference for cleaner, simpler nutrition solutions. With Project Protein Thali, our goal is to demonstrate how small, practical changes can make everyday meals more protein-inclusive. The launch of Gold Standard Unflavoured Whey further strengthens this commitment by offering a versatile option that can be easily incorporated into daily diets. As the world’s 1 sports nutrition brand, we remain focused on delivering trusted, high-quality nutrition that fits seamlessly into modern lifestyles.”

With Project Protein Thali 2026 and the launch of Gold Standard 100% Whey – Unflavoured, Optimum Nutrition continues to advance its mission of making high-quality protein more accessible and relevant to Indian consumers. By combining practical nutrition education with clean, trusted products, the brand aims to inspire individuals to make small yet impactful changes to their daily meals, reinforcing protein as an essential part of everyday nutrition and active lifestyles.

Pentair Foundation and Safe Water Network India Partner to Install Water ATMs in Noida

Noida, Feb 26: Safe Water Network India, along with Pentair Foundation, today inaugurated Water ATMs at Composite Sr. Primary School, Navada Rasoolpur, Noida, and Primary School, Sarfabad, Noida. The Water ATMs were inaugurated by Mr. Ajit Tulo, Vice President, Global Engineering Centre, Pentair, in the presence of Mr. Ravindra Sewak, Country Director, Safe Water Network India, and Ms. Poonam Sewak, Vice President, Programs and Partnerships, Safe Water Network India, along with other officials and dignitaries.

Speaking on the inauguration Mr. Ajit Tulo, Vice President, Global Engineering Centre, Pentair said,

“At the very outset, every citizen of the country has a right to have access to clean and safe drinking water, especially our young citizens who are the future of the country. We are pleased and honoured to have a partner like Safe Water Network India, with whom we have successfully commissioned similar water ATMs in 49 Government schools across NOIDA, Telangana, and Haryana which have benefitted about 20,000 students, 760 teachers and support staff across these states. We look forward to continue this partnership further, and have an intervention program in every district in the country.”

Elaborating further, Mr. Ravindra Sewak, Country Director, Safe Water Network India said,

“We have had a great start to 2026 with the inauguration of two Water ATMs in the first month itself and we hope to maintain the momentum throughout the year. With this successful commission, the students, teachers and support staff of both schools are assured of a dependable and clean supply of drinking water. My heartiest congratulations to everyone and a special thanks for Pentair for all their support over the years.”

The inauguration was marked with fun, frolic, and festivities. The students presented a skit on drinking safe water for good health and saving water, amongst other activities.

Pentair Foundation has been a core partner of Safe Water Network for the past 15 years, enabling innovative technological solutions for safe drinking water in underserved communities in India. In addition to Water for Schools and Institutions, Pentair has supported 17 decentralized safe drinking water stations called iJal stations, which bring water access to 55,000 people across 17 communities, and 19 ACOM – Automatic Chlorination and Online Monitoring Systems for piped water safety, delivering safe drinking water to 18,700 people across 19 communities.

Bacterial pathogens build antibiotic-resistant “bunkers” using filament scaffolds

Researchers have discovered and characterized at the atomic level a mechanism that enables bacterial pathogens—including hospital bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa—to assemble antibiotic-resistant three-dimensional (3D) biofilms. These findings open a new avenue for developing therapies against multidrug-resistant bacterial infections by targeting the biofilm assembly.  Many pathogenic bacteria form 3D biofilms to protect themselves from the immune system, antibiotic treatments, and drying on environmental surfaces. Some of the most problematic hospital bacteria, such as multidrug-resistant A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa, use specialized hair-like filaments called adhesive pili to attach to tissues or abiotic surfaces. After attaching, the bacteria then grow into thick 3D biofilms consisting of multiple layers of bacteria. This process is also mediated by adhesive pili, but until now it has been unclear how they prevent the growing 3D biofilm from falling apart. 

Using a combination of advanced electron microscopy methods, the researchers at the MediCity Research Laboratory of the University of Turku in Finland, led by S. Jusélius Senior Researcher Anton Zavialov, discovered that adhesive Csu pili from neighboring A. baumannii bacteria attach to each other in an antiparallel manner. These pili rapidly assemble into flat sheets that link bacteria together and shield them from hostile environments. 

“Impressively, Csu pili can self-assemble into huge, complex networks connecting hundreds of bacterial cells,” says Dr. Zavialov. 

The team demonstrated that Csu pili can form at least two types of flat structures and resolved them at a near-atomic resolution.  

“Cryo-electron microscopy methods are developing very rapidly. To obtain the first model, I initially developed a manual approach, and only later did we apply computational tools to solve these exceptionally large assemblies in 3D,” explains first author, Doctoral Researcher Henri Malmi. 

The researchers also found that the pilus network becomes embedded in a less defined matrix composed of polysaccharides and DNA secreted by the bacteria.  

“This final structure somewhat resembles reinforced concrete: the pili act like steel bars, while polysaccharides and DNA form the concrete. In this way, the bacteria effectively hide in a bunker,” adds Dr. Zavialov. 

The team is now focused on developing inhibitors that target the connections between pili. Such inhibitors could be used in combination therapies to prevent 3D biofilm assembly and help antibiotics eliminate the pathogens more effectively. 

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals Launches Varian Edge Radiosurgery System with Hyperarc Technology, Advancing Precision Cancer Care

New Delhi, Feb 24: Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals has launched the Varian Edge® Radiosurgery System with Hyperarc Technology, strengthening its advanced cancer care capabilities and expanding treatment options for complex and hard-to-reach tumours.

The introduction of the Varian Edge® system marks a significant milestone in radiation oncology, combining precision and advanced motion management to deliver highly targeted radiation therapy while minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. The technology enables doctors to treat tumours even as they move during breathing, ensuring consistent accuracy throughout treatment.

The platform also supports advanced motion-management techniques such as Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH), which is particularly beneficial in left-sided breast cancers by helping reduce radiation exposure to the heart. Its enhanced imaging clarity further strengthens precision in abdominal, liver, lung, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tumours, where internal organ movement and gas interference can otherwise impact treatment accuracy.

A key clinical advantage of the Varian Edge® platform is its ability to treat multiple metastases in a single session, often reducing overall treatment time to less than one-third of conventional LINAC or SRS treatments. The system’s synchronised movement of the radiation beam and treatment couch allows for continuous, precise radiation delivery, resulting in fewer radiation “hits” and improved patient comfort.

Dr G K Jadhav, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, noted:

 “The Varian Edge platform gives us a sharper and more versatile tool to manage a wide spectrum of tumours from tiny lesions to large, complex cases, even in challenging locations. It meaningfully expands our treatment options and enhances clinical outcomes.”

Dr Sapna Manocha Verma, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, added:

“What sets apart this technology is the radiation beam continuously tracks and adjusts to the tumour’s position, even as it shifts during breathing, while surrounding healthy tissue is carefully protected. The platform also supports advanced motion-management techniques such as Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH), which is particularly beneficial in left-sided breast tumours and in select liver and lung tumours. For patients, this translates into shorter treatment times, fewer side effects, and faster recovery.”

Dr Robin Khosa, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said:

 “The Varian Edge® Radiosurgery System with Hyperarc Technology represents a major advancement in precision radiation therapy. Its ability to track tumours in real time and deliver radiation with submillimetre accuracy allows us to treat complex cases including multiple brain metastases and tumours previously considered difficult or untreatable with greater safety and confidence.”

The launch was also marked by the presence of Dr Mano Bhadauria, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology; Dr Aditi Agarwal, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals; and Dr Devashish Tripathi, Senior Consultant in Radiation Oncology at Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi.

The system is particularly impactful in treating tumours located in delicate or hard-to-reach areas, where precision and motion management are critical. Enhanced imaging quality, sharper resolution, and improved accuracy enable clinicians to reduce treatment margins, safely deliver higher radiation doses when required, and potentially improve cure rates while lowering normal tissue toxicity.

With the launch of the Varian Edge® Radiosurgery System, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals continues to reinforce its commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with deep clinical expertise. Backed by a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, neurosurgeons, physicists, and radiation specialists, the hospital remains focused on pushing the boundaries of what is possible in cancer care ensuring better outcomes, fewer side effects, and more time for patients to focus on living.

Genetics and Age-Related Macular Degeneration: How Genes Influence Age-Related Blindness

By- Dr Sriram Simakurthy, Chief Medical Officer, Sankara Eye Hospital, Hyderabad

Sight is one of our most valued senses, which allows us to connect with the world around us. With age, however, for millions of people, eyesight-related challenges begin with slight blurriness and progressively lead to irreversible vision loss.

Among the many age-related eye conditions, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most common causes of vision loss in patients over the age of 50. As life expectancy increases in India, the number of cases of AMD is also rising. This condition often presents with early symptoms. Early counselling and identification are important for managing the condition better. Studies show that our genes play a critical role in determining who develops age-related macular degeneration. Understanding the genetic influence behind age-related blindness can help move toward earlier diagnosis, personalised care, and targeted prevention strategies.

The Genetic Link

 Lifestyle and environmental factors like age, smoking, and poor nutrition are known risk factors for AMD. Genome studies have identified that genetics can also influence who is likely to develop AMD.

In age-related macular degeneration, one of the strongest genetic associations identified is with variations in the CFH (Complement Factor H) gene. This gene plays a role in regulating inflammation in the retina. Certain variants increase susceptibility to chronic inflammation, leading to damage of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. Other genes, such as ARMS2 and HTRA1, also influence how retinal cells respond to stress and ageing.

Early Detection Can Change the Story

The start of AMD does not mean inevitable blindness. Understanding an individual’s genetic predisposition can enable doctors to recommend appropriate precautions to slow or mitigate its progress. For people with high-risk genetic variants, ophthalmologists can provide individualised recommendations such as:

• More frequent retinal examinations

• Diet modifications, including lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation

• Lifestyle changes that reduce oxidative damage

Why Genetic Insights Matter

Standard eye exams detect visible physical changes but often miss hidden genetic risk factors that may silently influence disease development. Genetic testing empowers individuals to act early, potentially mitigating disease before symptoms worsen. Since AMD often runs in families, knowing one’s genetic risk can also help parents, siblings, and children understand and manage their own risk.

Advances in genetic research are paving the way for personalised ophthalmology. Emerging therapies aim to target specific molecular pathways influenced by genetic variants, particularly in conditions like AMD and inherited retinal disorders. While genetic testing is not yet routine for all age-related eye diseases, it is becoming an important tool in research and selected clinical settings.

From Awareness to Action

Vision loss due to ageing isn’t inevitable. Early detection can help identify AMD early and allow for better management. The first step in protecting sight and quality of life is understanding your genetic risk. Genes play a powerful but modifiable role in age-related blindness. By combining genetic awareness with proactive eye care and healthy ageing strategies, it is possible to preserve vision and quality of life well into later years.

Indira IVF Expands in Haryana with the Inauguration of a New Fertility Clinic in Gurugram

Gurugram, Feb 24: Indira IVF Hospital Limited announced the inauguration of its new fertility clinic in Sector 51, Gurugram, further strengthening access to organised fertility and reproductive healthcare services across Haryana and the National Capital Region.

Located on the First Floor, the centre will offer a comprehensive range of fertility and assisted reproductive services. The clinic will operate with standardised clinical protocols and technology-enabled systems designed to ensure consistency, patient safety, and transparency across every stage of treatment.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Ms. Neha Rathi, Indian Professional Wrestler, as the Chief Guest, Dr. Arvind Vaid, Zonal Business Director, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist, Indira IVF Patel Nagar, Delhi as the guest of Honour & Dr. Abhilasha Mehta, Consultant Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist Centre Head, Indira IVF, Sector 51, Gurugram, & other dignitaries of Gurugram region.

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Neha Rathi said, “Access to specialised healthcare plays a crucial role in shaping healthier futures for families. The opening of Indira IVF in Gurugram strengthens the availability of structured fertility services in the region and underscores the importance of early evaluation and informed medical care.”

Commenting on the expansion, Mr. Nitiz Murdia, Managing Director, Indira IVF Hospital Limited, said, “The launch of our Gurugram centre reflects our continued commitment to improving accessibility to structured fertility care across growing urban hubs. As awareness around reproductive health increases, it is important that patients have access to evidence-based treatment supported by experienced clinical teams and standardised systems.”

Dr. Arvind Vaid, Centre Clinical Director, Zonal Business Director, Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist Indira IVF, Patel Nagar, Delhi, added, “Urban lifestyles, delayed parenthood, and underlying medical conditions are contributing to rising fertility concerns. The presence of a dedicated, technology-enabled fertility centre in Gurugram will encourage early consultation and structured treatment, which significantly improves clinical outcomes.”

Dr. Abhilasha Mehta, Consultant Gynaecologist & IVF Specialist and Centre Head, Indira IVF, Sector 51, Gurugram, said, “Fertility care requires timely diagnosis, scientific precision, and compassionate counselling. Our focus at the Gurugram centre is to provide personalised treatment plans backed by consistent protocols and advanced laboratory support, ensuring that couples receive comprehensive care under one roof.”

With this launch, Indira IVF continues to expand its national footprint, adding to its network of 200+ clinics across India. The Gurugram centre will offer a full range of fertility and assisted reproductive services for both male and female infertility, supported by standardised laboratory practices, electronic medical records and patient safety systems.

Over 10 Lakh Customers Embrace Healthier Choices in Zomato’s Healthy High-Five Challenge

New Delhi, Feb 19: Two weeks into Zomato’s Healthy High-five challenge, the data shows a meaningful shift in how urban India orders food: making protein the priority, not an afterthought.

Since February 1, over 10 lakh Indians have collectively begun their High-five journey, ordering healthy meals with over 20 grams of protein more than 15 lakh times. Here’s what the data shows: people are going beyond the first milestone. Over 10,000 customers have earned their first free meal.

A customer from Bengaluru exemplifies this frequency, he has logged 33 high-protein orders in just two weeks, earning multiple free meals along the way. Since Healthy Mode launched in late 2025, a customer from Chennai has placed 811 orders through the feature. These patterns suggest sustained behavior change, not temporary experiments.

The geographic breakdown reveals expected metro dominance: Bangalore leads with 3.78 lakh high-fives, closely followed by Delhi and Mumbai. Interestingly, grilled chicken has emerged as the most-ordered dish in the challenge with over 1 lakh orders in February, suggesting customers are consciously switching to healthier options without sacrificing taste or familiarity.

Aditya Mangla, CEO, Zomato, said,

“We’ve always felt that people want to make healthier choices. They just need it to be simpler and more accessible. The Healthy High-five challenge was our small attempt to enable that. Two weeks in, with over 10 lakh customers participating, it’s encouraging to see not just orders come in, but early signs of habits taking shape.”

Since the launch of Healthy Mode on the Zomato app in late 2025, the feature has driven 74 lakh orders from 12 lakh customers, indicating growing user inclination towards healthy meal options. There’s been a 20% uptick in orders for dishes with ‘High’ healthy scores, compared to September’25.

The Healthy High-five challenge runs till the end of February 2026 on the Zomato app. To participate, order dishes that meet specific nutritional criteria: a minimum of 20g of protein and a high Healthy Score. Healthy Score evaluates dishes on protein, complex carbs, fibre, and micronutrients, and not just calories.

• Every qualifying order once delivered, earns the customer a ‘High-five’
• 4 High-fives unlock a free dish from a curated menu of high-nutrition options listed under the Healthy Mode.

Ministry of Ayush Marks Unani Day 2026 with National Conference on “Innovation and Evidence in Unani Practice” in Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 19: The Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, commemorated World Unani Day 2026 by organising a two-day National Conference on “Innovation and Evidence in Unani Practice” on February 14–15, 2026, in Mumbai. Held under the aegis of the Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM), the conference brought together policymakers, researchers, academicians, and industry stakeholders in a hybrid format.

Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush and Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Shri Babasaheb Mohanrao Patel, Minister of Co-operation of Maharashtra, and Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush were present as the Guests of Honour. The event was also attended by senior dignitaries including Ms. Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush; Dr. M. A. Qasmi, Advisor (Unani), Ministry of Ayush; Dr. Syed Shah Alam, Director, NIUM, Bengaluru; and Dr. N. Zaheer Ahmed, Director General, CCRUM.

Observed annually on February 11 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan, Unani Day highlights the legacy and contemporary relevance of Unani Medicine. The 2026 conference focused on strengthening scientific validation, promoting innovation in diagnostics and therapeutics, advancing clinical documentation, and fostering integration of traditional knowledge with evidence-based medical approaches.

The deliberations addressed the growing need for rigorous research, standardisation, and outcome-based studies to enhance the credibility and global acceptance of Unani practice, particularly in the context of rising chronic and lifestyle diseases.

An industry delegation led by Hamdard Laboratories also participated in the conference, represented by Mr. Abdul Majeed, Chairman and Managing Trustee, Hamdard Laboratories, along with other senior representatives. On the occasion, an MoU was exchanged between Hamdard Laboratories (India), represented by Dr. Santosh Joshi, Head, R&D, Hamdard Laboratories and Dr. N. Zaheer Ahmed, Director General, CCRUM, to strengthen collaborative research and innovation in Unani Medicine.

The conference served as a platform for knowledge exchange, thematic discussions, and showcasing research outcomes aimed at reinforcing the role of innovation and evidence in advancing Unani practice within India’s evolving healthcare framework and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center Leads $7.5M Aging Study

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 17, 2026) — The National Institutes of Health and the National Institute on Aging have awarded a multi-institutional research team led by investigators in the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai $7.5 million to further study how damage to tiny blood vessels contributes to heart disease, cognitive decline and frailty as women age.

The new, five-year grant to examine sex-based differences in multiple age-related diseases supports the Microvascular Aging Effects—Women’s Evaluation of Systemic Aging Tenacity in Heart, Brain and Frailty study, commonly called MAE-WEST HBF. The acronym is a nod to the late actor, who reportedly once said, “You’re never too old to become younger.”

MAE-WEST HBF builds on prior research from Cedars-Sinai’s Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center that showed small blood vessel disease, chronic inflammation and iron buildup in women are linked to impaired heart, brain and kidney function, and declining physical strength.

“Armed with this funding, we are eager to continue uncovering biological mechanisms behind sex-based differences in aging and heart health,” said C. Noel Bairey Merz, MD, the principal investigator of MAE-WEST HBF and director of the Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Center in the Smidt Heart Institute. “A better understanding of the causes of common age-related conditions in women could lead to more effective prevention and treatment strategies.”

For more than two decades, Bairey Merz and her team have made landmark discoveries in women’s heart health, particularly in coronary microvascular disease—a condition that occurs more often in women and results from damage to the heart’s smallest blood vessels. Symptoms of the condition, which can be subtle, were previously often dismissed, misdiagnosed or undertreated. But improved diagnostic tools and treatments resulting from Bairey Merz’s discoveries have contributed to significant reductions in cardiovascular deaths among women.

The new study brings together a multidisciplinary team of experts, including Pascal Sati, PhD, director of the Neuroimaging Program in the Department of Neurology at Cedars Sinai. Collaborators at UCLA will oversee biostatistical analysis, while those at the University of Texas at Arlington will lead frailty research.

“We now have effective treatments for small vessel dysfunction in the heart,” Bairey Merz said. “If we can better understand its effects on the brain and musculoskeletal system, we may be able to find ways to prevent or slow multiple age-related diseases—including declines in cognition and mobility—in both women and men.”

Although women generally live longer than men do, women experience higher rates of chronic conditions and so spend more years in poor health. Ultimately, investigators hope the new study will pave the way for a future in which healthy aging for women includes earlier screenings, advanced technology, and preventive care that identifies risks and stops diseases before they begin.

“After more than 25 years of progress in women’s cardiovascular research, this grant helps advance whole-person care that supports heart health, brain function and physical strength,” said Eduardo Marbán, MD, PhD, executive director of the Smidt Heart Institute. “All three are equally essential to healthy aging.”

Cedars-Sinai Health Sciences University is advancing groundbreaking research and educating future leaders in medicine, biomedical sciences and allied health sciences.