Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Trade Associations
Intensive blood pressure control in stroke survivors lowered risk of cardiovascular events (11/7/26)
Intensive blood pressure therapy did not cut cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes (11/7/26)
Phone app alerts did not increase bystander CPR rates in study of 2 major population areas (11/7/26)
Featured Stories
U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Report - Tort Lawsuit Costs Hit More Than $4,900 Per American Household
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce posted the following news release:
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New Report: Tort Lawsuit Costs Hit More Than $4,900 Per American Household
U.S. tort litigation system costs reached nearly $656 billion in 2025, growing faster than the economy and adding to affordability pressures on families.
November 05, 2026
WASHINGTON -- A new study released today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform finds that the tort lawsuit system costs now amount to more than $4,900 per American household a year, a hidden cost that ultimately shows up in insurance premiums, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce posted the following news release: * * * New Report: Tort Lawsuit Costs Hit More Than $4,900 Per American Household U.S. tort litigation system costs reached nearly $656 billion in 2025, growing faster than the economy and adding to affordability pressures on families. November 05, 2026 WASHINGTON -- A new study released today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform finds that the tort lawsuit system costs now amount to more than $4,900 per American household a year, a hidden cost that ultimately shows up in insurance premiums,health care, goods, and services.
The new Tort Costs in America study estimates that total U.S. tort costs reached $655.6 billion in 2025, or 2.12% of GDP. Since 2019, those costs have grown 7.8% annually, faster than the economy and twice the pace of inflation.
"Americans are already struggling with the cost of insurance, health care, housing, and everyday necessities. Now we know the tort lawsuit system is imposing another hidden cost of more than $4,900 per household," said Stephen Waguespack, President of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform. "That is money families could be saving or spending on things they actually need. Instead, they are paying the price for a legal system that too often rewards excessive and frivolous litigation. Billboard lawyers sue. We all pay."
The report also provides important lessons that states can positively impact their hidden lawsuit burden through reforms. For example, following Florida's landmark 2023 civil justice reforms--the impacts of which are just starting to be felt--tort costs declined as a share of the state's economy from 3.35% to 3.11%, and Florida improved by moving down four spots on the list of state tort costs per household. While total dollar costs continued to rise nationally, Florida's relative improvement suggests that policy choices can make a difference.
* * *
About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform (ILR) is the country's most influential and successful advocate for civil justice reform, both in the U.S. and abroad.
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Original text here: https://www.uschamber.com/lawsuits/new-report-tort-lawsuit-costs-hit-more-than-4-900-per-american-household
[Category: Business]
* * *
New Report: Tort Lawsuit Costs Hit More Than $4,900 Per American Household
U.S. tort litigation system costs reached nearly $656 billion in 2025, growing faster than the economy and adding to affordability pressures on families.
November 05, 2026
WASHINGTON -- A new study released today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform finds that the tort lawsuit system costs now amount to more than $4,900 per American household a year, a hidden cost that ultimately shows up in insurance premiums, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce posted the following news release: * * * New Report: Tort Lawsuit Costs Hit More Than $4,900 Per American Household U.S. tort litigation system costs reached nearly $656 billion in 2025, growing faster than the economy and adding to affordability pressures on families. November 05, 2026 WASHINGTON -- A new study released today by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform finds that the tort lawsuit system costs now amount to more than $4,900 per American household a year, a hidden cost that ultimately shows up in insurance premiums,health care, goods, and services.
The new Tort Costs in America study estimates that total U.S. tort costs reached $655.6 billion in 2025, or 2.12% of GDP. Since 2019, those costs have grown 7.8% annually, faster than the economy and twice the pace of inflation.
"Americans are already struggling with the cost of insurance, health care, housing, and everyday necessities. Now we know the tort lawsuit system is imposing another hidden cost of more than $4,900 per household," said Stephen Waguespack, President of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform. "That is money families could be saving or spending on things they actually need. Instead, they are paying the price for a legal system that too often rewards excessive and frivolous litigation. Billboard lawyers sue. We all pay."
The report also provides important lessons that states can positively impact their hidden lawsuit burden through reforms. For example, following Florida's landmark 2023 civil justice reforms--the impacts of which are just starting to be felt--tort costs declined as a share of the state's economy from 3.35% to 3.11%, and Florida improved by moving down four spots on the list of state tort costs per household. While total dollar costs continued to rise nationally, Florida's relative improvement suggests that policy choices can make a difference.
* * *
About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform (ILR) is the country's most influential and successful advocate for civil justice reform, both in the U.S. and abroad.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.uschamber.com/lawsuits/new-report-tort-lawsuit-costs-hit-more-than-4-900-per-american-household
[Category: Business]
NBDA Calls for Reform of New Jersey E-Bike Law
IRVINE, California, Nov. 7 -- The National Bicycle Dealers Association, a non-profit supported by the membership of participating retailers and industry sponsorship, issued the following news:
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NBDA Calls for Reform of New Jersey E-Bike Law
Estimated shop closures and economic losses underscore the need for urgent action
-
New Jersey's bicycle retailers need a seat at the table. The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA), working with Wheel House Strategies, estimates that roughly three dozen New Jersey bike shops closed through the end of September 2026, with the state's new e-bike ... Show Full Article IRVINE, California, Nov. 7 -- The National Bicycle Dealers Association, a non-profit supported by the membership of participating retailers and industry sponsorship, issued the following news: * * * NBDA Calls for Reform of New Jersey E-Bike Law Estimated shop closures and economic losses underscore the need for urgent action - New Jersey's bicycle retailers need a seat at the table. The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA), working with Wheel House Strategies, estimates that roughly three dozen New Jersey bike shops closed through the end of September 2026, with the state's new e-bikerestrictions identified as a contributing factor.
NBDA is calling for an urgent review and amendments that advance rider safety while protecting local bicycle businesses and access to responsible cycling.
The law, P.L. 2025, c.285 (S4834/A6235), was signed on January 19, 2026, and generally took effect immediately. Its six-month compliance period for newly required licensing, registration and applicable insurance ended July 19, 2026- nearly three months before this bulletin. Under current MVC guidance, both low-speed electric bicycles and motorized bicycles require registration and rider licensing; insurance is required only for motorized bicycles.
The cost to local businesses and communities
NBDA and Wheel House Strategies estimate more than $23.3 million in lost retail revenue, $1.1 million in lost wages and $1.5 million in lost sales tax through September 2026. They also estimate a 20 percent decline in retail sales of legal e-bikes to New Jersey consumers and a 50 percent decline in supplier sales to New Jersey retailers. These estimates reflect their assessment of the law's economic impact during 2026, including the months preceding the July compliance deadline.
Every shop closure removes a local source of professional service, rider education and guidance on safe equipment. It also weakens the community relationships that help grow cycling and support better bike routes and facilities.
"These shops are people's livelihoods. They are where riders get trusted advice, learn to ride safely and find support to keep riding," said Heather Mason, NBDA Executive Director. "We support safer streets and responsible e-bike use. We need lawmakers to work with retailers on practical rules that protect riders and keep these essential businesses serving their communities."
NBDA urges New Jersey lawmakers to engage directly with retailers, suppliers and cycling advocates to address the law's economic consequences and develop clear, workable requirements. Retailers are essential partners in improving safety, educating consumers and helping people choose appropriate products.
* * *
Original text here: https://nbda.com/nbda-calls-for-reform-of-new-jersey-e-bike-law/
[Category: Business]
* * *
NBDA Calls for Reform of New Jersey E-Bike Law
Estimated shop closures and economic losses underscore the need for urgent action
-
New Jersey's bicycle retailers need a seat at the table. The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA), working with Wheel House Strategies, estimates that roughly three dozen New Jersey bike shops closed through the end of September 2026, with the state's new e-bike ... Show Full Article IRVINE, California, Nov. 7 -- The National Bicycle Dealers Association, a non-profit supported by the membership of participating retailers and industry sponsorship, issued the following news: * * * NBDA Calls for Reform of New Jersey E-Bike Law Estimated shop closures and economic losses underscore the need for urgent action - New Jersey's bicycle retailers need a seat at the table. The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA), working with Wheel House Strategies, estimates that roughly three dozen New Jersey bike shops closed through the end of September 2026, with the state's new e-bikerestrictions identified as a contributing factor.
NBDA is calling for an urgent review and amendments that advance rider safety while protecting local bicycle businesses and access to responsible cycling.
The law, P.L. 2025, c.285 (S4834/A6235), was signed on January 19, 2026, and generally took effect immediately. Its six-month compliance period for newly required licensing, registration and applicable insurance ended July 19, 2026- nearly three months before this bulletin. Under current MVC guidance, both low-speed electric bicycles and motorized bicycles require registration and rider licensing; insurance is required only for motorized bicycles.
The cost to local businesses and communities
NBDA and Wheel House Strategies estimate more than $23.3 million in lost retail revenue, $1.1 million in lost wages and $1.5 million in lost sales tax through September 2026. They also estimate a 20 percent decline in retail sales of legal e-bikes to New Jersey consumers and a 50 percent decline in supplier sales to New Jersey retailers. These estimates reflect their assessment of the law's economic impact during 2026, including the months preceding the July compliance deadline.
Every shop closure removes a local source of professional service, rider education and guidance on safe equipment. It also weakens the community relationships that help grow cycling and support better bike routes and facilities.
"These shops are people's livelihoods. They are where riders get trusted advice, learn to ride safely and find support to keep riding," said Heather Mason, NBDA Executive Director. "We support safer streets and responsible e-bike use. We need lawmakers to work with retailers on practical rules that protect riders and keep these essential businesses serving their communities."
NBDA urges New Jersey lawmakers to engage directly with retailers, suppliers and cycling advocates to address the law's economic consequences and develop clear, workable requirements. Retailers are essential partners in improving safety, educating consumers and helping people choose appropriate products.
* * *
Original text here: https://nbda.com/nbda-calls-for-reform-of-new-jersey-e-bike-law/
[Category: Business]
NAR's Center for REALTOR(r) Development Announces 2026 Award Winners
WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 [Category: Real Estate] -- The National Association of Realtors issued the following news release:
* * *
NAR's Center for REALTOR(r) Development Announces 2026 Award Winners
*
The National Association of REALTORS(r)' Center for REALTOR(r) Development (CRD) announced four recipients of its 2026 awards, recognizing their commitment to specialized expertise, client service and community impact.
This year's recipients are as follows:
* Mike Wallin, ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award
* Yoshi Takita, CIPS Excellence Award
* Linda Yadao, EverGreen Award
* Kent Lee, SRES(r) Outstanding ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 [Category: Real Estate] -- The National Association of Realtors issued the following news release: * * * NAR's Center for REALTOR(r) Development Announces 2026 Award Winners * The National Association of REALTORS(r)' Center for REALTOR(r) Development (CRD) announced four recipients of its 2026 awards, recognizing their commitment to specialized expertise, client service and community impact. This year's recipients are as follows: * Mike Wallin, ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award * Yoshi Takita, CIPS Excellence Award * Linda Yadao, EverGreen Award * Kent Lee, SRES(r) OutstandingService Award
"These four honorees show how specialized expertise can make a meaningful difference in people's lives," said NAR President Kevin Brown. "Through their commitment to education, advocacy and service, they are helping clients navigate important decisions while strengthening the communities they serve. We are proud to recognize their leadership and contributions to our profession."
Mike Wallin: ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award
The ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award recognizes an Accredited Buyer's Representative designee whose leadership, experience and service advance buyer representation.
Mike Wallin has helped shape legislation that strengthens agency transparency, promotes fair housing opportunities and protects consumer interests. His leadership at the local, state and national levels of the REALTOR(r) organization reflects a commitment to elevating buyer representation standards and expanding access to homeownership. Through extensive education, professional development and practical experience, Wallin has made buyer advocacy a focus of his career. His longstanding service to NAR, Washington REALTORS(r) and his local association has helped strengthen the REALTOR(r) community.
Yoshi Takita: CIPS Excellence Award
The CIPS Excellence Award recognizes a Certified International Property Specialist designee for exceptional global knowledge, international engagement and client service.
Since earning his CIPS designation in 2011, Yoshi Takita has built connections among real estate professionals across countries, cultures and markets. His work has fostered collaboration, education and business development throughout Asia and beyond. Takita's service includes roles as chair of the CIPS Advisory Board, NAR Global Real Estate Liaison, NAR Global Ambassador, NAR Executive Committee member, NAR director and chair of the Global Alliance Advisory Board. Through these roles, he has strengthened international partnerships and expanded global engagement opportunities for REALTORS(r).
Linda Yadao: EverGreen Award
The EverGreen Award recognizes a Green designee who demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through professional practice, education and community engagement.
An early Green designee, Linda Yadao helped establish and grow the Green Real Estate Action Team, known as the GREAT Committee. Her leadership has encouraged real estate professionals to adopt environmentally responsible practices and helped build a culture of sustainability within the REALTOR(r) community. Yadao also participates in native Hawaiian planting and environmental restoration efforts. Through education, innovation and volunteer service, she has translated green principles into practical action for her colleagues and community.
Kent Lee: SRES(r) Outstanding Service Award
The SRES(r) Outstanding Service Award recognizes an SRES(r) designee for extraordinary service addressing the housing needs of older adults.
Through his Senior Family Solutions program, Kent Lee has developed a network of trusted service providers and community resources to support older adults and their families. His approach helps clients access senior housing and care options that might otherwise be financially out of reach. Combining real estate expertise with personalized guidance, Lee helps families navigate complex and emotionally difficult transitions with dignity and confidence. His community partnerships and longstanding focus on senior housing solutions reflect the SRES(r) designation's commitment to serving older adults.
The National Association of REALTORS(r) is involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate. The term REALTOR(r) is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS(r) and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. For free consumer guides about navigating the homebuying and selling transaction processes--from written buyer agreements to negotiating compensation--visit facts.realtor.
***
Original text here: https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/nars-center-for-realtor-development-announces-2026-award-winners
* * *
NAR's Center for REALTOR(r) Development Announces 2026 Award Winners
*
The National Association of REALTORS(r)' Center for REALTOR(r) Development (CRD) announced four recipients of its 2026 awards, recognizing their commitment to specialized expertise, client service and community impact.
This year's recipients are as follows:
* Mike Wallin, ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award
* Yoshi Takita, CIPS Excellence Award
* Linda Yadao, EverGreen Award
* Kent Lee, SRES(r) Outstanding ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Nov. 7 [Category: Real Estate] -- The National Association of Realtors issued the following news release: * * * NAR's Center for REALTOR(r) Development Announces 2026 Award Winners * The National Association of REALTORS(r)' Center for REALTOR(r) Development (CRD) announced four recipients of its 2026 awards, recognizing their commitment to specialized expertise, client service and community impact. This year's recipients are as follows: * Mike Wallin, ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award * Yoshi Takita, CIPS Excellence Award * Linda Yadao, EverGreen Award * Kent Lee, SRES(r) OutstandingService Award
"These four honorees show how specialized expertise can make a meaningful difference in people's lives," said NAR President Kevin Brown. "Through their commitment to education, advocacy and service, they are helping clients navigate important decisions while strengthening the communities they serve. We are proud to recognize their leadership and contributions to our profession."
Mike Wallin: ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award
The ABR(r) Hall of Fame Award recognizes an Accredited Buyer's Representative designee whose leadership, experience and service advance buyer representation.
Mike Wallin has helped shape legislation that strengthens agency transparency, promotes fair housing opportunities and protects consumer interests. His leadership at the local, state and national levels of the REALTOR(r) organization reflects a commitment to elevating buyer representation standards and expanding access to homeownership. Through extensive education, professional development and practical experience, Wallin has made buyer advocacy a focus of his career. His longstanding service to NAR, Washington REALTORS(r) and his local association has helped strengthen the REALTOR(r) community.
Yoshi Takita: CIPS Excellence Award
The CIPS Excellence Award recognizes a Certified International Property Specialist designee for exceptional global knowledge, international engagement and client service.
Since earning his CIPS designation in 2011, Yoshi Takita has built connections among real estate professionals across countries, cultures and markets. His work has fostered collaboration, education and business development throughout Asia and beyond. Takita's service includes roles as chair of the CIPS Advisory Board, NAR Global Real Estate Liaison, NAR Global Ambassador, NAR Executive Committee member, NAR director and chair of the Global Alliance Advisory Board. Through these roles, he has strengthened international partnerships and expanded global engagement opportunities for REALTORS(r).
Linda Yadao: EverGreen Award
The EverGreen Award recognizes a Green designee who demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through professional practice, education and community engagement.
An early Green designee, Linda Yadao helped establish and grow the Green Real Estate Action Team, known as the GREAT Committee. Her leadership has encouraged real estate professionals to adopt environmentally responsible practices and helped build a culture of sustainability within the REALTOR(r) community. Yadao also participates in native Hawaiian planting and environmental restoration efforts. Through education, innovation and volunteer service, she has translated green principles into practical action for her colleagues and community.
Kent Lee: SRES(r) Outstanding Service Award
The SRES(r) Outstanding Service Award recognizes an SRES(r) designee for extraordinary service addressing the housing needs of older adults.
Through his Senior Family Solutions program, Kent Lee has developed a network of trusted service providers and community resources to support older adults and their families. His approach helps clients access senior housing and care options that might otherwise be financially out of reach. Combining real estate expertise with personalized guidance, Lee helps families navigate complex and emotionally difficult transitions with dignity and confidence. His community partnerships and longstanding focus on senior housing solutions reflect the SRES(r) designation's commitment to serving older adults.
The National Association of REALTORS(r) is involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate. The term REALTOR(r) is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS(r) and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. For free consumer guides about navigating the homebuying and selling transaction processes--from written buyer agreements to negotiating compensation--visit facts.realtor.
***
Original text here: https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/nars-center-for-realtor-development-announces-2026-award-winners
Minnesota Credit Union Network: Royal Credit Union and White Bear Lake Area High School Celebrate Student-Run Credit Union With Ribbon Cutting
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 7 -- Royal Credit Union, a member company of the Minnesota Credit Union Network, issued the following news:
* * *
Royal Credit Union and White Bear Lake Area High School Celebrate Student-Run Credit Union with Ribbon Cutting
11/6/2026
WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. - Royal Credit Union (Royal) joined White Bear Lake Area High School on Thursday, November 5, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new student-run credit union location. The event brought together school and district leaders, Royal representatives, student tellers and community partners to mark a new chapter ... Show Full Article ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 7 -- Royal Credit Union, a member company of the Minnesota Credit Union Network, issued the following news: * * * Royal Credit Union and White Bear Lake Area High School Celebrate Student-Run Credit Union with Ribbon Cutting 11/6/2026 WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. - Royal Credit Union (Royal) joined White Bear Lake Area High School on Thursday, November 5, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new student-run credit union location. The event brought together school and district leaders, Royal representatives, student tellers and community partners to mark a new chapterin the organizations' partnership. During the celebration, Royal presented $1,000 to White Bear Lake Area Education Foundation to support the Career Pathways program's Employability Skills initiative. The investment will help the school expand efforts focused on workplace skills such as communication, professionalism, teamwork, and problem-solving.
The new location creates an opportunity for students to learn about financial services from their peers while giving student tellers meaningful workplace experience. In addition to serving their classmates at the high school, the student tellers work at Royal's White Bear Lake and Hugo offices, allowing them to strengthen professional skills in a real-world setting. Beyond day-to-day financial services, the school site serves as another avenue for Royal and White Bear Lake Area High School to connect students with practical financial education through activities, promotions, and structured programming.
"Opening this student-run credit union is an exciting milestone in Royal's partnership with White Bear Lake Area Schools," said Brandon Riechers, Royal President and CEO. "This location creates opportunities for students to build financial knowledge, gain valuable workplace experience, and develop skills they can carry with them well beyond high school."
Royal's partnership with White Bear Lake Area Schools also includes financial education experiences such as Test Drive... Next Stop Reality(R) and a focus on providing hands-on learning opportunities that support career readiness.
"Our students aren't simply studying financial literacy or learning about careers in banking; they are operating a real credit union here on our campus," says Russ Reetz, White Bear Lake Area High School Principal. "They are developing professional skills, building relationships, solving problems, and providing a service to their peers."
White Bear Lake Area High School joins Royal's long-standing School $ense program, which began in 1993 and now includes 31 student-run credit union locations in elementary, middle and high schools. The program reflects Royal's core purpose of creating a positive impact in the lives it touches and its ongoing commitment to the communities it serves.
To learn more about Royal's financial education programs, visit Royal's Financial Education Page at rcu.org/FinEd.
* * *
About Royal Credit Union
Royal Credit Union is a federally insured credit union proudly serving over 340,000 Members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Royal is driven by a core ideology built on a strong purpose and values. Royal was recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best-In-State Credit Unions 2026 in Wisconsin and Minnesota. You can open an account or apply for a low-rate loan at Royal Credit Union if you live or work in 26 counties in western Wisconsin or 16 counties in Minnesota. Counties served in Wisconsin include Adams, Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Washburn, and Wood.?Counties served in Minnesota include Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Isanti, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright. A complete list of Member eligibility requirements is available on the Royal Credit Union website. To learn more about Royal, visit rcu.org or call 800-341-9911.
* * *
Original text here: https://web.mncun.org/atlas/articles/13036
[Category: Financial Services]
* * *
Royal Credit Union and White Bear Lake Area High School Celebrate Student-Run Credit Union with Ribbon Cutting
11/6/2026
WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. - Royal Credit Union (Royal) joined White Bear Lake Area High School on Thursday, November 5, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new student-run credit union location. The event brought together school and district leaders, Royal representatives, student tellers and community partners to mark a new chapter ... Show Full Article ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 7 -- Royal Credit Union, a member company of the Minnesota Credit Union Network, issued the following news: * * * Royal Credit Union and White Bear Lake Area High School Celebrate Student-Run Credit Union with Ribbon Cutting 11/6/2026 WHITE BEAR LAKE, Minn. - Royal Credit Union (Royal) joined White Bear Lake Area High School on Thursday, November 5, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new student-run credit union location. The event brought together school and district leaders, Royal representatives, student tellers and community partners to mark a new chapterin the organizations' partnership. During the celebration, Royal presented $1,000 to White Bear Lake Area Education Foundation to support the Career Pathways program's Employability Skills initiative. The investment will help the school expand efforts focused on workplace skills such as communication, professionalism, teamwork, and problem-solving.
The new location creates an opportunity for students to learn about financial services from their peers while giving student tellers meaningful workplace experience. In addition to serving their classmates at the high school, the student tellers work at Royal's White Bear Lake and Hugo offices, allowing them to strengthen professional skills in a real-world setting. Beyond day-to-day financial services, the school site serves as another avenue for Royal and White Bear Lake Area High School to connect students with practical financial education through activities, promotions, and structured programming.
"Opening this student-run credit union is an exciting milestone in Royal's partnership with White Bear Lake Area Schools," said Brandon Riechers, Royal President and CEO. "This location creates opportunities for students to build financial knowledge, gain valuable workplace experience, and develop skills they can carry with them well beyond high school."
Royal's partnership with White Bear Lake Area Schools also includes financial education experiences such as Test Drive... Next Stop Reality(R) and a focus on providing hands-on learning opportunities that support career readiness.
"Our students aren't simply studying financial literacy or learning about careers in banking; they are operating a real credit union here on our campus," says Russ Reetz, White Bear Lake Area High School Principal. "They are developing professional skills, building relationships, solving problems, and providing a service to their peers."
White Bear Lake Area High School joins Royal's long-standing School $ense program, which began in 1993 and now includes 31 student-run credit union locations in elementary, middle and high schools. The program reflects Royal's core purpose of creating a positive impact in the lives it touches and its ongoing commitment to the communities it serves.
To learn more about Royal's financial education programs, visit Royal's Financial Education Page at rcu.org/FinEd.
* * *
About Royal Credit Union
Royal Credit Union is a federally insured credit union proudly serving over 340,000 Members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Royal is driven by a core ideology built on a strong purpose and values. Royal was recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best-In-State Credit Unions 2026 in Wisconsin and Minnesota. You can open an account or apply for a low-rate loan at Royal Credit Union if you live or work in 26 counties in western Wisconsin or 16 counties in Minnesota. Counties served in Wisconsin include Adams, Ashland, Bayfield, Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, Lincoln, Marathon, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Portage, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, St. Croix, Taylor, Trempealeau, Washburn, and Wood.?Counties served in Minnesota include Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Goodhue, Hennepin, Isanti, Olmsted, Pine, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Wabasha, Washington, Winona and Wright. A complete list of Member eligibility requirements is available on the Royal Credit Union website. To learn more about Royal, visit rcu.org or call 800-341-9911.
* * *
Original text here: https://web.mncun.org/atlas/articles/13036
[Category: Financial Services]
Intensive blood pressure therapy did not cut cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes
DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
* * *
Intensive blood pressure therapy did not cut cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes
*
Research Highlights:
* Compared to standard treatment, using antihypertensive medications to lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading) below 120 mm Hg in middle-aged adults with Type 2 diabetes did not significantly reduce the incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular events.
* There is still a chance of a modest but clinically ... Show Full Article DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release: * * * Intensive blood pressure therapy did not cut cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes * Research Highlights: * Compared to standard treatment, using antihypertensive medications to lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading) below 120 mm Hg in middle-aged adults with Type 2 diabetes did not significantly reduce the incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular events. * There is still a chance of a modest but clinicallyrelevant benefit from more intensive blood pressure-lowering treatment, and high blood pressure management in people with Type 2 diabetes should remain individualized, researchers said.
* In the OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial, more than 9,000 middle-aged adults with Type 2 diabetes and other risk factors including elevated blood pressure between 130 and 180 mm Hg were randomly assigned to receive either intensive therapy to lower systolic blood pressure to less than 120 mm Hg or standard treatment to reduce systolic pressure to less than 140 mm Hg.
* Note: This trial is simultaneously published today as a full manuscript in the peer-reviewed scientific journal New England Journal of Medicine.
Embargoed until 3:30 p.m. CT, 4:30 p.m. ET, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
CHICAGO, Nov. 7, 2026 -- Intensive blood pressure-lowering treatment to reduce systolic pressure below 120 mm Hg in adults with Type 2 diabetes, who are at increased risk of cardiovascular events, did not significantly reduce the incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack or other cardiovascular events, compared to standard treatment targeting a systolic blood pressure of less than 140 mm Hg. These were the results of new, independent, preliminary late-breaking science presented today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026. The meeting on Nov. 6-9 in Chicago is a premier global exchange of the latest scientific advancements, research and evidence-based clinical practice updates in cardiovascular science.
People with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure are at increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. The American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology's 2025 Joint Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults notes that high blood pressure (>=130/80 mm Hg) is the #1 preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke and heart failure, as well as kidney disease, cognitive decline and dementia. The guideline recommends keeping systolic blood pressure lower than 130 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure less than 80 mm Hg; and encourages reaching less than 120 mm Hg for people with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
"These findings add important evidence about optimal blood pressure targets for adults with Type 2 diabetes," said lead study author Karla Santo, M.D., Ph.D., head of Decentralized Clinical Studies and Innovative Trial Models at the Academic Research Organization of Einstein Hospital Israelita in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
"While this trial did not find a statistically significant reduction in major cardiovascular events, more intensive blood pressure treatment may still have modest yet meaningful health benefits for adults with Type 2 diabetes," she said.
Researchers analyzed data from the OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial, which enrolled more than 9,000 men and women, ages 50 and older, at 33 sites in Brazil. Participants had elevated blood pressure (systolic blood pressure between 130 and 180 mm Hg), Type 2 diabetes, and a history of cardiovascular disease, subclinical cardiovascular disease (early heart or blood vessel disease that has not yet caused symptoms), chronic kidney disease or other cardiovascular risk factors. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either intensive treatment to lower systolic blood pressure to below 120 mm Hg or standard treatment targeting a systolic level below 140 mm Hg. Researchers sought to determine if more intensive blood pressure management could reduce incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack or other cardiovascular events, including hospitalization due to heart failure or unstable angina (chest pain), compared to standard treatment.
What are the key findings of the study?
* During a median follow-up of four years, participants who received intensive blood pressure-lowering treatment had about a 10% lower risk of experiencing a major cardiovascular event (cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack, hospitalization due to heart failure or unstable angina). The results were not statistically significant.
* In the intensive-treatment group, 286 participants (6.0%) experienced a major cardiovascular event, compared to 315 participants (6.7%) in the standard-treatment group.
* The occurrence rate for kidney-related events was about 55% higher in the intensive-treatment group (270 participants, or 5.7%) compared to the standard-treatment group (175 participants, or 3.7%). These were primarily declines in kidney function with only a small number of participants developing end-stage renal disease. Importantly, the occurrence of end-stage renal disease was similar between groups.
* Serious adverse events were similar between groups.
"These findings should not be interpreted as evidence that more intensive blood pressure lowering is ineffective for people with Type 2 diabetes. Rather, they suggest that any cardiovascular benefit may be smaller than that observed in individuals without Type 2 diabetes. As a result, even a large trial such as OPTIMAL-DIABETES may not have been able to definitively detect a modest treatment effect," said Otavio Berwanger, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial Steering Committee and executive director at The George Institute for Global Health - Imperial College London in London, UK.
Berwanger said the broader, important message is that blood pressure management for people with Type 2 diabetes should remain individualized.
"A target below 120 mm Hg should not necessarily be applied universally to all patients, and treatment decisions should balance potential cardiovascular benefits, kidney effects, treatment burden and patient preferences," he said. "Ultimately, our study adds an important piece to the overall evidence base and highlights the need to consider the totality of evidence, rather than any single trial alone, when defining optimal blood pressure targets in patients with Type 2 diabetes."
Study design, background, details and limitations:
* The OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial enrolled 9,476 adults, ages 50 and older (average age 65) with elevated systolic blood pressure between 130-180 mm Hg; Type 2 diabetes; and established cardiovascular disease, subclinical cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease or cardiovascular risk factors, such as smoking, high cholesterol, or age 75 or older. Among the participants, 62% identified as women; 42.5% self-identified as mixed-race adults; 41.9% as white adults; and 14.5% as Black adults.
* Participants were enrolled in the study from August 2019 to October 2021 and followed up for 4 years at 33 sites in Brazil.
* The analysis found that 2,697 participants (28.5%) had cardiovascular disease; 371 (3.9%) had subclinical cardiovascular disease; and 2,113 (22.6%) had chronic kidney disease at baseline.
* At the beginning of the study, participants' average systolic blood pressure was 146 mm Hg, and diastolic blood pressure was 80 mm Hg. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intensive treatment group to lower systolic blood pressure below 120 mm Hg, or a standard treatment group targeting systolic blood pressure less than 140 mm Hg. Blood pressure medications were adjusted throughout the study to reach those targets. The average systolic blood pressure throughout follow-up (excluding the first 3 months) was 122 mm Hg in the intensive-treatment group and 135 mm Hg in the standard-treatment group.
* Researchers evaluated whether participants experienced cardiovascular death, heart attack, stroke, hospitalization for chest pain or heart failure during the 4-year study period. They also examined deaths from any cause, each of these cardiovascular outcomes individually and kidney-related outcomes.
* The main limitation of the study is that the trial was open-label, meaning participants and investigators knew which treatment strategy they were receiving. Additionally, the results may not be generalizable to populations outside Brazil.
Co-authors, disclosures and funding sources are listed in the abstract.
Statements and conclusions of studies that are presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. Abstracts presented at the Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, rather, they are curated by independent review panels and are considered based on the potential to add to the diversity of scientific issues and views discussed at the meeting. The findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
The Association receives more than 85% of its revenue from sources other than corporations. These sources include contributions from individuals, foundations and estates, as well as investment earnings and revenue from the sale of our educational materials. Corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations to the Association. The Association has strict policies to prevent any donations from influencing its science content and policy positions. Overall financial information is available here.
Additional Resources:
* Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link
* View the abstract in the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026 Online Program Planner
* American Heart Association news release: Managing high blood pressure could prevent >500K CVD deaths annually in 20 countries (Oct. 2026)
* American Heart Association news release: New high blood pressure guideline emphasizes prevention, early treatment to reduce CVD risk (Aug. 2025)
* American Heart Association health information: Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
* About Scientific Sessions 2026
* For more news at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026, follow us on X @HeartNews, #ScientificSessions26
***
Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/intensive-blood-pressure-therapy-did-not-cut-cardiovascular-events-in-adults-with-diabetes
* * *
Intensive blood pressure therapy did not cut cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes
*
Research Highlights:
* Compared to standard treatment, using antihypertensive medications to lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading) below 120 mm Hg in middle-aged adults with Type 2 diabetes did not significantly reduce the incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular events.
* There is still a chance of a modest but clinically ... Show Full Article DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release: * * * Intensive blood pressure therapy did not cut cardiovascular events in adults with diabetes * Research Highlights: * Compared to standard treatment, using antihypertensive medications to lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading) below 120 mm Hg in middle-aged adults with Type 2 diabetes did not significantly reduce the incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular events. * There is still a chance of a modest but clinicallyrelevant benefit from more intensive blood pressure-lowering treatment, and high blood pressure management in people with Type 2 diabetes should remain individualized, researchers said.
* In the OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial, more than 9,000 middle-aged adults with Type 2 diabetes and other risk factors including elevated blood pressure between 130 and 180 mm Hg were randomly assigned to receive either intensive therapy to lower systolic blood pressure to less than 120 mm Hg or standard treatment to reduce systolic pressure to less than 140 mm Hg.
* Note: This trial is simultaneously published today as a full manuscript in the peer-reviewed scientific journal New England Journal of Medicine.
Embargoed until 3:30 p.m. CT, 4:30 p.m. ET, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
CHICAGO, Nov. 7, 2026 -- Intensive blood pressure-lowering treatment to reduce systolic pressure below 120 mm Hg in adults with Type 2 diabetes, who are at increased risk of cardiovascular events, did not significantly reduce the incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack or other cardiovascular events, compared to standard treatment targeting a systolic blood pressure of less than 140 mm Hg. These were the results of new, independent, preliminary late-breaking science presented today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026. The meeting on Nov. 6-9 in Chicago is a premier global exchange of the latest scientific advancements, research and evidence-based clinical practice updates in cardiovascular science.
People with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure are at increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. The American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology's 2025 Joint Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults notes that high blood pressure (>=130/80 mm Hg) is the #1 preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, stroke and heart failure, as well as kidney disease, cognitive decline and dementia. The guideline recommends keeping systolic blood pressure lower than 130 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure less than 80 mm Hg; and encourages reaching less than 120 mm Hg for people with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
"These findings add important evidence about optimal blood pressure targets for adults with Type 2 diabetes," said lead study author Karla Santo, M.D., Ph.D., head of Decentralized Clinical Studies and Innovative Trial Models at the Academic Research Organization of Einstein Hospital Israelita in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
"While this trial did not find a statistically significant reduction in major cardiovascular events, more intensive blood pressure treatment may still have modest yet meaningful health benefits for adults with Type 2 diabetes," she said.
Researchers analyzed data from the OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial, which enrolled more than 9,000 men and women, ages 50 and older, at 33 sites in Brazil. Participants had elevated blood pressure (systolic blood pressure between 130 and 180 mm Hg), Type 2 diabetes, and a history of cardiovascular disease, subclinical cardiovascular disease (early heart or blood vessel disease that has not yet caused symptoms), chronic kidney disease or other cardiovascular risk factors. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either intensive treatment to lower systolic blood pressure to below 120 mm Hg or standard treatment targeting a systolic level below 140 mm Hg. Researchers sought to determine if more intensive blood pressure management could reduce incidence of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack or other cardiovascular events, including hospitalization due to heart failure or unstable angina (chest pain), compared to standard treatment.
What are the key findings of the study?
* During a median follow-up of four years, participants who received intensive blood pressure-lowering treatment had about a 10% lower risk of experiencing a major cardiovascular event (cardiovascular death, stroke, heart attack, hospitalization due to heart failure or unstable angina). The results were not statistically significant.
* In the intensive-treatment group, 286 participants (6.0%) experienced a major cardiovascular event, compared to 315 participants (6.7%) in the standard-treatment group.
* The occurrence rate for kidney-related events was about 55% higher in the intensive-treatment group (270 participants, or 5.7%) compared to the standard-treatment group (175 participants, or 3.7%). These were primarily declines in kidney function with only a small number of participants developing end-stage renal disease. Importantly, the occurrence of end-stage renal disease was similar between groups.
* Serious adverse events were similar between groups.
"These findings should not be interpreted as evidence that more intensive blood pressure lowering is ineffective for people with Type 2 diabetes. Rather, they suggest that any cardiovascular benefit may be smaller than that observed in individuals without Type 2 diabetes. As a result, even a large trial such as OPTIMAL-DIABETES may not have been able to definitively detect a modest treatment effect," said Otavio Berwanger, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial Steering Committee and executive director at The George Institute for Global Health - Imperial College London in London, UK.
Berwanger said the broader, important message is that blood pressure management for people with Type 2 diabetes should remain individualized.
"A target below 120 mm Hg should not necessarily be applied universally to all patients, and treatment decisions should balance potential cardiovascular benefits, kidney effects, treatment burden and patient preferences," he said. "Ultimately, our study adds an important piece to the overall evidence base and highlights the need to consider the totality of evidence, rather than any single trial alone, when defining optimal blood pressure targets in patients with Type 2 diabetes."
Study design, background, details and limitations:
* The OPTIMAL-DIABETES trial enrolled 9,476 adults, ages 50 and older (average age 65) with elevated systolic blood pressure between 130-180 mm Hg; Type 2 diabetes; and established cardiovascular disease, subclinical cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease or cardiovascular risk factors, such as smoking, high cholesterol, or age 75 or older. Among the participants, 62% identified as women; 42.5% self-identified as mixed-race adults; 41.9% as white adults; and 14.5% as Black adults.
* Participants were enrolled in the study from August 2019 to October 2021 and followed up for 4 years at 33 sites in Brazil.
* The analysis found that 2,697 participants (28.5%) had cardiovascular disease; 371 (3.9%) had subclinical cardiovascular disease; and 2,113 (22.6%) had chronic kidney disease at baseline.
* At the beginning of the study, participants' average systolic blood pressure was 146 mm Hg, and diastolic blood pressure was 80 mm Hg. Participants were randomly assigned to either an intensive treatment group to lower systolic blood pressure below 120 mm Hg, or a standard treatment group targeting systolic blood pressure less than 140 mm Hg. Blood pressure medications were adjusted throughout the study to reach those targets. The average systolic blood pressure throughout follow-up (excluding the first 3 months) was 122 mm Hg in the intensive-treatment group and 135 mm Hg in the standard-treatment group.
* Researchers evaluated whether participants experienced cardiovascular death, heart attack, stroke, hospitalization for chest pain or heart failure during the 4-year study period. They also examined deaths from any cause, each of these cardiovascular outcomes individually and kidney-related outcomes.
* The main limitation of the study is that the trial was open-label, meaning participants and investigators knew which treatment strategy they were receiving. Additionally, the results may not be generalizable to populations outside Brazil.
Co-authors, disclosures and funding sources are listed in the abstract.
Statements and conclusions of studies that are presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. Abstracts presented at the Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, rather, they are curated by independent review panels and are considered based on the potential to add to the diversity of scientific issues and views discussed at the meeting. The findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
The Association receives more than 85% of its revenue from sources other than corporations. These sources include contributions from individuals, foundations and estates, as well as investment earnings and revenue from the sale of our educational materials. Corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations to the Association. The Association has strict policies to prevent any donations from influencing its science content and policy positions. Overall financial information is available here.
Additional Resources:
* Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link
* View the abstract in the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026 Online Program Planner
* American Heart Association news release: Managing high blood pressure could prevent >500K CVD deaths annually in 20 countries (Oct. 2026)
* American Heart Association news release: New high blood pressure guideline emphasizes prevention, early treatment to reduce CVD risk (Aug. 2025)
* American Heart Association health information: Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
* About Scientific Sessions 2026
* For more news at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026, follow us on X @HeartNews, #ScientificSessions26
***
Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/intensive-blood-pressure-therapy-did-not-cut-cardiovascular-events-in-adults-with-diabetes
Discontinuing statins generally safe for older adults without heart disease
DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
* * *
Discontinuing statins generally safe for older adults without heart disease
*
Research Highlights:
* In a study of almost 1,900 adults, ages 70 years and older who had other chronic health conditions but not cardiovascular disease, those who stopped taking cholesterol-lowering statins had similar rates of heart attack, stroke and death after two years when compared to peers who continued taking statins.
* There was an increase in the number of heart attacks and strokes ... Show Full Article DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release: * * * Discontinuing statins generally safe for older adults without heart disease * Research Highlights: * In a study of almost 1,900 adults, ages 70 years and older who had other chronic health conditions but not cardiovascular disease, those who stopped taking cholesterol-lowering statins had similar rates of heart attack, stroke and death after two years when compared to peers who continued taking statins. * There was an increase in the number of heart attacks and strokesamong a small number of older adults who discontinued statins in an extended follow-up of up to four years, compared to peers who continued taking the medications.
* While discontinuing statin therapy for primary prevention is generally safe for adults ages 70 and older without cardiovascular disease, a slight increased risk for cardiovascular events over time reinforces the need for shared decision-making between patients and their healthcare team.
* Note: This trial is simultaneously published today as a full manuscript in the peer-reviewed scientific journal, The New England Journal of Medicine.
Embargoed until 3:15 p.m. CT/4:15 p.m. ET, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
CHICAGO, Nov. 7, 2026 -- It is generally safe for adults ages 70 and older who take statins to prevent cardiovascular disease but who have not had a heart attack or stroke to discontinue taking the cholesterol-lowering medications, according to new, independent, preliminary late-breaking science presented today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026. The meeting on Nov. 6-9 in Chicago is a premier global exchange of the latest scientific advancements, research and evidence-based clinical practice updates in cardiovascular science.
About 25% of U.S. adults are estimated to have high low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), or "bad cholesterol," which can build up in the arteries, affecting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack and/or stroke. Statin therapy is the foundation of lipid-lowering and risk reduction, which includes primary prevention aimed at preventing a first heart attack or stroke, as detailed in the Association's 2026 joint guideline on dyslipidemia.
"While the Association's recent joint guideline recommends lifestyle and potentially medication for people with high LDL-C at younger ages to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, recent studies question the health benefits of continuing statins in the later decades of life," said study author Rita F. Redberg, M.D., M.Sc., FAHA, professor of cardiology and the Araxe Vilensky Endowed Chair in Cardiology at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. "A few previous studies assessed the safety of discontinuing statins for primary prevention at age 70 and later, and they found no difference in mortality. One study suggested quality of life improvements after stopping statins. Whether it is safe to discontinue statins to prevent a first CVD event in the elderly remained unclear and the question we explored in our study."
This study included nearly 1,900 adults, ages 70 and older, who took statins to prevent a first cardiovascular event and had at least two chronic health conditions, such as past cancer or pulmonary disease. Half of the participants discontinued taking statins, while the other half continued taking them. The researchers monitored the participants during the next two years, and for up to four years, for heart attack, stroke or death. They also assessed quality of life, muscle pain, falls and muscle wasting (known as sarcopenia).
What are the study's key findings?
* At about two years, discontinuation of statins was safe, without a significant increase in heart attack, stroke or death, compared to those who continued the therapy.
* There were no differences between the groups when researchers assessed the study participants' quality of life, muscle pain, falls and sarcopenia.
* Statistically speaking, over the course of two years, for every 40 individuals in the group who discontinued statins, one additional cardiovascular event occurred among them.
* In a follow-up period of up to four years, 12.7% of those who discontinued statins had a heart attack, stroke or death, compared to 9.2% who continued the therapy.
Redberg noted the increased risk at four years among a small number of older adults was a new finding in scientific literature, one which she said could be because this trial had more people and a longer follow-up than previous studies.
"This small, increased risk of cardiovascular events means that one cannot make a general recommendation about stopping statins in this patient population," she said. "There should be shared decision-making between the patient and the healthcare professional to know if it is appropriate for an individual to discontinue the medication. In general, however, discontinuation is safe for most people who are in this age group and without a previous CVD event."
What are the study's details, background, design and limitations?
* The research included 1,880 total adults, age 70 and older (average age of 77; 53% men, and 47% women) with at least two chronic health conditions. People with existing cardiovascular disease or a prior cardiovascular event were excluded from the study.
* The study was conducted from November 2021 to April 2026, at 24 clinical centers in Switzerland, France and the Netherlands.
* Of the participants, 938 were assigned to the group to discontinue statins, and 942 of the participants continued taking their statin medications.
* Researchers collected data on heart attack, acute ischemic stroke and all-cause death. In addition, participants were surveyed throughout the study and during follow-up about quality of life, muscle pain, falls and sarcopenia.
* A limitation of the study was that there was crossover in both groups during the study period, meaning some people in the discontinuation group restarted their statins while some in the continuation group stopped them. Overall, about 14% of participants crossed over to the other group during the study. To account for this shift, the researchers conducted several additional analyses that yielded no change in the results.
Co-authors, disclosures and funding sources are listed in the abstract.
Statements and conclusions of studies that are presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. Abstracts presented at the Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, rather, they are curated by independent review panels and are considered based on the potential to add to the diversity of scientific issues and views discussed at the meeting. The findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
The Association receives more than 85% of its revenue from sources other than corporations. These sources include contributions from individuals, foundations and estates, as well as investment earnings and revenue from the sale of our educational materials. Corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations to the Association. The Association has strict policies to prevent any donations from influencing its science content and policy positions. Overall financial information is available here.
Additional Resources:
* Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link
* View the abstract in the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026 Online Program Planner
* American Heart Association health information: Cholesterol-Lowering Medications
* American Heart Association health information: Prevention and Treatment of High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)
* American Heart Association health initiative: Life's Essential 8(tm) - How to Control Cholesterol Fact Sheet
* About Scientific Sessions 2026
* For more news at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026, follow us on X @HeartNews, #ScientificSessions26
***
Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/discontinuing-statins-generally-safe-for-older-adults-without-heart-disease
* * *
Discontinuing statins generally safe for older adults without heart disease
*
Research Highlights:
* In a study of almost 1,900 adults, ages 70 years and older who had other chronic health conditions but not cardiovascular disease, those who stopped taking cholesterol-lowering statins had similar rates of heart attack, stroke and death after two years when compared to peers who continued taking statins.
* There was an increase in the number of heart attacks and strokes ... Show Full Article DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release: * * * Discontinuing statins generally safe for older adults without heart disease * Research Highlights: * In a study of almost 1,900 adults, ages 70 years and older who had other chronic health conditions but not cardiovascular disease, those who stopped taking cholesterol-lowering statins had similar rates of heart attack, stroke and death after two years when compared to peers who continued taking statins. * There was an increase in the number of heart attacks and strokesamong a small number of older adults who discontinued statins in an extended follow-up of up to four years, compared to peers who continued taking the medications.
* While discontinuing statin therapy for primary prevention is generally safe for adults ages 70 and older without cardiovascular disease, a slight increased risk for cardiovascular events over time reinforces the need for shared decision-making between patients and their healthcare team.
* Note: This trial is simultaneously published today as a full manuscript in the peer-reviewed scientific journal, The New England Journal of Medicine.
Embargoed until 3:15 p.m. CT/4:15 p.m. ET, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
CHICAGO, Nov. 7, 2026 -- It is generally safe for adults ages 70 and older who take statins to prevent cardiovascular disease but who have not had a heart attack or stroke to discontinue taking the cholesterol-lowering medications, according to new, independent, preliminary late-breaking science presented today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026. The meeting on Nov. 6-9 in Chicago is a premier global exchange of the latest scientific advancements, research and evidence-based clinical practice updates in cardiovascular science.
About 25% of U.S. adults are estimated to have high low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), or "bad cholesterol," which can build up in the arteries, affecting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack and/or stroke. Statin therapy is the foundation of lipid-lowering and risk reduction, which includes primary prevention aimed at preventing a first heart attack or stroke, as detailed in the Association's 2026 joint guideline on dyslipidemia.
"While the Association's recent joint guideline recommends lifestyle and potentially medication for people with high LDL-C at younger ages to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, recent studies question the health benefits of continuing statins in the later decades of life," said study author Rita F. Redberg, M.D., M.Sc., FAHA, professor of cardiology and the Araxe Vilensky Endowed Chair in Cardiology at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine. "A few previous studies assessed the safety of discontinuing statins for primary prevention at age 70 and later, and they found no difference in mortality. One study suggested quality of life improvements after stopping statins. Whether it is safe to discontinue statins to prevent a first CVD event in the elderly remained unclear and the question we explored in our study."
This study included nearly 1,900 adults, ages 70 and older, who took statins to prevent a first cardiovascular event and had at least two chronic health conditions, such as past cancer or pulmonary disease. Half of the participants discontinued taking statins, while the other half continued taking them. The researchers monitored the participants during the next two years, and for up to four years, for heart attack, stroke or death. They also assessed quality of life, muscle pain, falls and muscle wasting (known as sarcopenia).
What are the study's key findings?
* At about two years, discontinuation of statins was safe, without a significant increase in heart attack, stroke or death, compared to those who continued the therapy.
* There were no differences between the groups when researchers assessed the study participants' quality of life, muscle pain, falls and sarcopenia.
* Statistically speaking, over the course of two years, for every 40 individuals in the group who discontinued statins, one additional cardiovascular event occurred among them.
* In a follow-up period of up to four years, 12.7% of those who discontinued statins had a heart attack, stroke or death, compared to 9.2% who continued the therapy.
Redberg noted the increased risk at four years among a small number of older adults was a new finding in scientific literature, one which she said could be because this trial had more people and a longer follow-up than previous studies.
"This small, increased risk of cardiovascular events means that one cannot make a general recommendation about stopping statins in this patient population," she said. "There should be shared decision-making between the patient and the healthcare professional to know if it is appropriate for an individual to discontinue the medication. In general, however, discontinuation is safe for most people who are in this age group and without a previous CVD event."
What are the study's details, background, design and limitations?
* The research included 1,880 total adults, age 70 and older (average age of 77; 53% men, and 47% women) with at least two chronic health conditions. People with existing cardiovascular disease or a prior cardiovascular event were excluded from the study.
* The study was conducted from November 2021 to April 2026, at 24 clinical centers in Switzerland, France and the Netherlands.
* Of the participants, 938 were assigned to the group to discontinue statins, and 942 of the participants continued taking their statin medications.
* Researchers collected data on heart attack, acute ischemic stroke and all-cause death. In addition, participants were surveyed throughout the study and during follow-up about quality of life, muscle pain, falls and sarcopenia.
* A limitation of the study was that there was crossover in both groups during the study period, meaning some people in the discontinuation group restarted their statins while some in the continuation group stopped them. Overall, about 14% of participants crossed over to the other group during the study. To account for this shift, the researchers conducted several additional analyses that yielded no change in the results.
Co-authors, disclosures and funding sources are listed in the abstract.
Statements and conclusions of studies that are presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. Abstracts presented at the Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, rather, they are curated by independent review panels and are considered based on the potential to add to the diversity of scientific issues and views discussed at the meeting. The findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
The Association receives more than 85% of its revenue from sources other than corporations. These sources include contributions from individuals, foundations and estates, as well as investment earnings and revenue from the sale of our educational materials. Corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations to the Association. The Association has strict policies to prevent any donations from influencing its science content and policy positions. Overall financial information is available here.
Additional Resources:
* Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link
* View the abstract in the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026 Online Program Planner
* American Heart Association health information: Cholesterol-Lowering Medications
* American Heart Association health information: Prevention and Treatment of High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)
* American Heart Association health initiative: Life's Essential 8(tm) - How to Control Cholesterol Fact Sheet
* About Scientific Sessions 2026
* For more news at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026, follow us on X @HeartNews, #ScientificSessions26
***
Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/discontinuing-statins-generally-safe-for-older-adults-without-heart-disease
Can a low-cost diuretic medication help to lower blood pressure after a stroke?
DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release:
* * *
Can a low-cost diuretic medication help to lower blood pressure after a stroke?
*
Research Highlights:
* Adding the diuretic medication spironolactone to post-stroke care for adults with uncontrolled high blood pressure resulted in average systolic blood pressure (the top number) that was nearly 8 mm Hg lower at three months compared with usual post-stroke care. Spironolactone is a low-cost diuretic medication (or water pill) that helps the body excrete salt and water to ... Show Full Article DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release: * * * Can a low-cost diuretic medication help to lower blood pressure after a stroke? * Research Highlights: * Adding the diuretic medication spironolactone to post-stroke care for adults with uncontrolled high blood pressure resulted in average systolic blood pressure (the top number) that was nearly 8 mm Hg lower at three months compared with usual post-stroke care. Spironolactone is a low-cost diuretic medication (or water pill) that helps the body excrete salt and water toprevent buildup, and it is usually added later in blood pressure treatment, typically when blood pressure stays high despite three other medications.
* In the REDUCE trial, patients taking spironolactone after a stroke were more likely to reach the recommended blood pressure goal of less than 130/80 mm Hg at three months than those receiving usual post-stroke care.
* In an exploratory analysis, blood pressure dropped more among people who started spironolactone within three months of their stroke than among those who started it later, researchers said.
* Note: The study featured in this news release is a research abstract. Abstracts presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, and the findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
Embargoed until 2 p.m. CT/3 p.m. ET, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
CHICAGO, Nov. 7, 2026 -- Stroke survivors with uncontrolled high blood pressure who added an inexpensive diuretic medication called spironolactone to their treatment had lower blood pressure and reached the recommended blood pressure goal nearly twice as often as peers receiving usual post-stroke care, according to new, independent, preliminary late-breaking science presented today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026. The meeting on Nov. 6-9 in Chicago is a premier global exchange of the latest scientific advancements, research and evidence-based clinical practice updates in cardiovascular science.
"Strokes can be devastating and are a leading cause of disability. Our top goal is to keep patients from having another stroke," said the study's co-lead author Jordana B. Cohen, M.D., M.S.C.E., FAHA, an associate professor of medicine and epidemiology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
"Lowering blood pressure is the most important step in preventing another stroke, yet many survivors struggle to reach recommended blood pressure targets after a stroke. When spironolactone was added to post-stroke care, we saw a meaningful drop in blood pressure that may lower the risk of future strokes and heart attacks," said Cohen, who is also a kidney and blood pressure specialist.
High blood pressure is a leading risk factor for having another stroke that can be controlled, according to the 2021 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association
Guideline for the Prevention of Stroke in Patients With Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack. Nearly 1 in 4 stroke survivors will have another stroke; however, up to 80% of strokes can be prevented. Having more than one stroke increases the risk severe disability and a poorer quality of life, Cohen noted.
Spironolactone is a long-available medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, fluid buildup related to liver or kidney disease, and a hormone condition called primary hyperaldosteronism. It is also prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as acne and hair loss. However, this type of diuretic is usually the fourth recommended medication for high blood pressure, Cohen noted. Spironolactone lowers blood pressure by blocking aldosterone, a hormone that signals the kidneys to hold on to salt and water and to get rid of potassium. As a result, the body releases more salt and water but holds on to potassium, so people taking it must have their potassium levels checked regularly, she added.
This study, the Regulating Blood Pressure During Recovery from Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Ischemic Stroke (REDUCE) Trial, is a multicenter randomized clinical trial evaluating the addition of spironolactone for patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure after an ischemic stroke (clots) or intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding). The primary outcome was home systolic blood pressure at three months.
What are the study's key findings?
* Three months after enrolling in the study, people taking spironolactone daily had a home-measured systolic blood pressure (top number) that was nearly 8 mm Hg lower on average than the standard care group - about 126 mm Hg vs. 133 mm Hg, respectively.
* Participants in the spironolactone group also had improved diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) at three months, dropping by about 4 mm Hg on average compared with those receiving standard post-stroke care.
* At three months, 52% of people taking the diuretic had reached the recommended blood pressure goal of less than 130/80 mm Hg, compared with 30% of people in the standard care group.
* At six months, people in the spironolactone group had systolic blood pressure that was about 7 mm Hg lower.
* The medication was well tolerated overall. Rates of serious side effects requiring hospitalization were similar between both groups: 15% in those taking spironolactone and 16% in those taking standard post-stroke medications. High potassium levels were present in about 4% of people in the spironolactone group, but it caused no life-threatening issues.
"We were surprised to see that blood pressure dropped twice as much as we expected. In an exploratory analysis, the blood pressure drop was larger in people who started this medication within three months after a stroke, " Cohen said. "We hope these findings encourage healthcare professionals to consider adding spironolactone sooner. In addition, we hope the results illustrate the importance of routine home blood pressure monitoring to reduce the increased cardiovascular disease risks associated with any level of high blood pressure, the #1 modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease."
What are the study's details, background, design and limitations?
* The REDUCE trial enrolled 160 adult stroke survivors, average age 63, (38% were women, and 29% of participants self-identified as Black adults and 16% as Hispanic adults). All participants in the study started with high blood pressure. On average, their systolic blood pressure was 136 mm Hg, measured at home.
* About half of participants had survived a hemorrhagic or bleeding stroke. The other half had an ischemic or clot-caused stroke.
* Participants enrolled between April 2021 and October 2025 at five U.S. medical centers: Yale New Haven Hospital, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Temple University Hospital and University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.
* Upon enrollment, participants tracked their blood pressure at home using a digital monitor for three to five days. They were then randomly assigned to receive daily spironolactone pills in addition to their regular medications, or to follow the usual post-stroke care recommended by their health care team that did not include spironolactone. Both the researchers and participants knew who was in the spironolactone group or the usual-care group.
* The researchers reviewed blood pressure readings from participants' at-home blood pressure monitoring devices at one, two, three and six months to track changes in blood pressure. They also noted how many medications each person was taking.
* Study limitations include that study compared spironolactone with usual care rather than with adding a different blood pressure medication; and people in the spironolactone group were taking slightly more blood pressure medications overall at three months (2.6 vs. 2.1, on average). Enrollment also ended early, at 160 of the planned 200 participants, and about 15% of participants did not have three-month blood pressure readings. The study was not designed to determine whether spironolactone lowers the risk of another stroke or heart attack, and larger, longer studies are needed to answer that question.
Co-authors, disclosures and author affiliations are listed in the abstract. The study was funded by a Bugher Center grant from the American Heart Association.
Statements and conclusions of studies that are presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. Abstracts presented at the Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, rather, they are curated by independent review panels and are considered based on the potential to add to the diversity of scientific issues and views discussed at the meeting. The findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
The Association receives more than 85% of its revenue from sources other than corporations. These sources include contributions from individuals, foundations and estates, as well as investment earnings and revenue from the sale of our educational materials. Corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations to the Association. The Association has strict policies to prevent any donations from influencing its science content and policy positions. Overall financial information is available here.
Additional Resources:
* Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link
* View the abstract in the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026 Online Program Planner
* American Heart Association news release: Managing high blood pressure could prevent >500K CVD deaths annually in 20 countries (Oct. 2026)
* American Heart Association news release: Many heart-related emergencies are due to uncontrolled blood pressure (Sept. 2022)
* American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology 2025 Joint Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults
* American Heart Association health information: Preventing Another Stroke
* American Heart Association health initiative: Target: BP
* About Scientific Sessions 2026
* For more news at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026, follow us on X @HeartNews, #ScientificSessions26
***
Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/can-a-low-cost-diuretic-medication-help-to-lower-blood-pressure-after-a-stroke
* * *
Can a low-cost diuretic medication help to lower blood pressure after a stroke?
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Research Highlights:
* Adding the diuretic medication spironolactone to post-stroke care for adults with uncontrolled high blood pressure resulted in average systolic blood pressure (the top number) that was nearly 8 mm Hg lower at three months compared with usual post-stroke care. Spironolactone is a low-cost diuretic medication (or water pill) that helps the body excrete salt and water to ... Show Full Article DALLAS, Texas, Nov. 7 [Category: Health Care] -- The American Heart Association posted the following news release: * * * Can a low-cost diuretic medication help to lower blood pressure after a stroke? * Research Highlights: * Adding the diuretic medication spironolactone to post-stroke care for adults with uncontrolled high blood pressure resulted in average systolic blood pressure (the top number) that was nearly 8 mm Hg lower at three months compared with usual post-stroke care. Spironolactone is a low-cost diuretic medication (or water pill) that helps the body excrete salt and water toprevent buildup, and it is usually added later in blood pressure treatment, typically when blood pressure stays high despite three other medications.
* In the REDUCE trial, patients taking spironolactone after a stroke were more likely to reach the recommended blood pressure goal of less than 130/80 mm Hg at three months than those receiving usual post-stroke care.
* In an exploratory analysis, blood pressure dropped more among people who started spironolactone within three months of their stroke than among those who started it later, researchers said.
* Note: The study featured in this news release is a research abstract. Abstracts presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, and the findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
Embargoed until 2 p.m. CT/3 p.m. ET, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
CHICAGO, Nov. 7, 2026 -- Stroke survivors with uncontrolled high blood pressure who added an inexpensive diuretic medication called spironolactone to their treatment had lower blood pressure and reached the recommended blood pressure goal nearly twice as often as peers receiving usual post-stroke care, according to new, independent, preliminary late-breaking science presented today at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026. The meeting on Nov. 6-9 in Chicago is a premier global exchange of the latest scientific advancements, research and evidence-based clinical practice updates in cardiovascular science.
"Strokes can be devastating and are a leading cause of disability. Our top goal is to keep patients from having another stroke," said the study's co-lead author Jordana B. Cohen, M.D., M.S.C.E., FAHA, an associate professor of medicine and epidemiology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.
"Lowering blood pressure is the most important step in preventing another stroke, yet many survivors struggle to reach recommended blood pressure targets after a stroke. When spironolactone was added to post-stroke care, we saw a meaningful drop in blood pressure that may lower the risk of future strokes and heart attacks," said Cohen, who is also a kidney and blood pressure specialist.
High blood pressure is a leading risk factor for having another stroke that can be controlled, according to the 2021 American Heart Association/American Stroke Association
Guideline for the Prevention of Stroke in Patients With Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack. Nearly 1 in 4 stroke survivors will have another stroke; however, up to 80% of strokes can be prevented. Having more than one stroke increases the risk severe disability and a poorer quality of life, Cohen noted.
Spironolactone is a long-available medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, fluid buildup related to liver or kidney disease, and a hormone condition called primary hyperaldosteronism. It is also prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as acne and hair loss. However, this type of diuretic is usually the fourth recommended medication for high blood pressure, Cohen noted. Spironolactone lowers blood pressure by blocking aldosterone, a hormone that signals the kidneys to hold on to salt and water and to get rid of potassium. As a result, the body releases more salt and water but holds on to potassium, so people taking it must have their potassium levels checked regularly, she added.
This study, the Regulating Blood Pressure During Recovery from Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Ischemic Stroke (REDUCE) Trial, is a multicenter randomized clinical trial evaluating the addition of spironolactone for patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure after an ischemic stroke (clots) or intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding). The primary outcome was home systolic blood pressure at three months.
What are the study's key findings?
* Three months after enrolling in the study, people taking spironolactone daily had a home-measured systolic blood pressure (top number) that was nearly 8 mm Hg lower on average than the standard care group - about 126 mm Hg vs. 133 mm Hg, respectively.
* Participants in the spironolactone group also had improved diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) at three months, dropping by about 4 mm Hg on average compared with those receiving standard post-stroke care.
* At three months, 52% of people taking the diuretic had reached the recommended blood pressure goal of less than 130/80 mm Hg, compared with 30% of people in the standard care group.
* At six months, people in the spironolactone group had systolic blood pressure that was about 7 mm Hg lower.
* The medication was well tolerated overall. Rates of serious side effects requiring hospitalization were similar between both groups: 15% in those taking spironolactone and 16% in those taking standard post-stroke medications. High potassium levels were present in about 4% of people in the spironolactone group, but it caused no life-threatening issues.
"We were surprised to see that blood pressure dropped twice as much as we expected. In an exploratory analysis, the blood pressure drop was larger in people who started this medication within three months after a stroke, " Cohen said. "We hope these findings encourage healthcare professionals to consider adding spironolactone sooner. In addition, we hope the results illustrate the importance of routine home blood pressure monitoring to reduce the increased cardiovascular disease risks associated with any level of high blood pressure, the #1 modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease."
What are the study's details, background, design and limitations?
* The REDUCE trial enrolled 160 adult stroke survivors, average age 63, (38% were women, and 29% of participants self-identified as Black adults and 16% as Hispanic adults). All participants in the study started with high blood pressure. On average, their systolic blood pressure was 136 mm Hg, measured at home.
* About half of participants had survived a hemorrhagic or bleeding stroke. The other half had an ischemic or clot-caused stroke.
* Participants enrolled between April 2021 and October 2025 at five U.S. medical centers: Yale New Haven Hospital, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, Temple University Hospital and University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.
* Upon enrollment, participants tracked their blood pressure at home using a digital monitor for three to five days. They were then randomly assigned to receive daily spironolactone pills in addition to their regular medications, or to follow the usual post-stroke care recommended by their health care team that did not include spironolactone. Both the researchers and participants knew who was in the spironolactone group or the usual-care group.
* The researchers reviewed blood pressure readings from participants' at-home blood pressure monitoring devices at one, two, three and six months to track changes in blood pressure. They also noted how many medications each person was taking.
* Study limitations include that study compared spironolactone with usual care rather than with adding a different blood pressure medication; and people in the spironolactone group were taking slightly more blood pressure medications overall at three months (2.6 vs. 2.1, on average). Enrollment also ended early, at 160 of the planned 200 participants, and about 15% of participants did not have three-month blood pressure readings. The study was not designed to determine whether spironolactone lowers the risk of another stroke or heart attack, and larger, longer studies are needed to answer that question.
Co-authors, disclosures and author affiliations are listed in the abstract. The study was funded by a Bugher Center grant from the American Heart Association.
Statements and conclusions of studies that are presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. Abstracts presented at the Association's scientific meetings are not peer-reviewed, rather, they are curated by independent review panels and are considered based on the potential to add to the diversity of scientific issues and views discussed at the meeting. The findings are considered preliminary until published as a full manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
The Association receives more than 85% of its revenue from sources other than corporations. These sources include contributions from individuals, foundations and estates, as well as investment earnings and revenue from the sale of our educational materials. Corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations to the Association. The Association has strict policies to prevent any donations from influencing its science content and policy positions. Overall financial information is available here.
Additional Resources:
* Multimedia is available on the right column of the release link
* View the abstract in the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026 Online Program Planner
* American Heart Association news release: Managing high blood pressure could prevent >500K CVD deaths annually in 20 countries (Oct. 2026)
* American Heart Association news release: Many heart-related emergencies are due to uncontrolled blood pressure (Sept. 2022)
* American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology 2025 Joint Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults
* American Heart Association health information: Preventing Another Stroke
* American Heart Association health initiative: Target: BP
* About Scientific Sessions 2026
* For more news at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2026, follow us on X @HeartNews, #ScientificSessions26
***
Original text here: https://newsroom.heart.org/news/can-a-low-cost-diuretic-medication-help-to-lower-blood-pressure-after-a-stroke