News

The same genes that predispose humans to atherosclerosis, the disease that causes heart attacks and strokes, may have advantages earlier in life, new findings published in the American Heart Association’s scientific journal Circulation suggest.

Many are familiar with the Mediterranean diet, which focuses on plant foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, seeds and nuts, plus the liberal use of extra virgin olive oil.

At 66, Craig has spent half his life with coronary heart disease (CAD). His first heart attack occurred in his early 30s, and he has since had two bypass surgeries and 30-plus coronary stent placements to keep his heart healthy.

Born with congenital heart disease, 41-year-old Christin Murphy has undergone three heart surgeries to repair pulmonary valves. They have been tough to get through, but Murphy says this latest one at Saint Luke’s changed her outlook.

A recent study led by Andrew Sauer, M.D., cardiologist at Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute, showed that for patients with heart failure, hospital participation in the IMPLEMENT-HF initiative improves patient care.

In 2023, an emergency colonoscopy led to Michael's diagnosis of stage 3 cancer. Because of his experience, Michael Kathrens, 70, advocates for proactive health screenings and being an advocate for your own health.

Nellie Jo Gaston received a lifesaving surgery after an abnormal result from an at-home colon cancer screening test. After treatment at Saint Luke’s, she is cancer-free.

To combat rising maternal mortality, researchers at Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute and UMKC are leading a first of its kind study to create better care for moms with heart conditions during pregnancy.

After a fainting spell, Angela Alvarez was ultimately diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure. Her original plan of action was to undergo a heart transplant, but she sought a second opinion at Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute.