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Space Technology Used to Detect and Treat Heart Disease

Terri Hudkins
Headquarters, Washington, DC               February 20, 1998
(Phone: 202/358-1977)

RELEASE:  98-32

SPACE TECHNOLOGY USED TO DETECT AND TREAT HEART DISEASE

     Astronauts who spend extended periods in space often 
experience weakening of their hearts and blood vessels.  As 
doctors and researchers work to understand why this happens, 
many of their findings can be applied to heart disease.  In the 
month of February, when people's attention turns to matters of 
the heart, and in recognition of American Heart Month, NASA 
today highlighted how its research and technology has led to 
breakthroughs in the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of 
heart disease -- the number one killer of American men and women.

    "I am proud that NASA research is helping doctors treat 
heart disease," said NASA Administrator Daniel S. Goldin.  
"This is a fascinating time for medical science, when the 
developments of our aeronautics and space programs can be 
applied to a disease that affects so many here on Earth."

Some startling facts:

* Heart disease is the leading cause of death of both men and 
women in the United States.

* About 60 million Americans have high blood pressure.  If left 
untreated, it can lead to heart attacks, stroke and other 
medical problems.

* Until very recently, heart disease has not been recognized as 
a major risk for women.  Since 1984, more women than men have 
died of heart disease.

     Whether researching ways to keep astronauts healthy in 
space or transferring aerospace technologies to industry, 
America's space program has helped revolutionize the practice 
of medicine.  NASA's research on the cardiovascular system is 
leading to many breakthrough discoveries, testing procedures 
and treatments.  Many are less painful, less costly, and less 
traumatic to patients.  A few of today's space-derived 
improvements include blood pressure monitors, self-adjusting 
pacemakers, EKGs, exercise equipment and ultrasound images.  
The technology of tomorrow will include microwave surgery, 
tissue replacement, heart pumps, low radiation imaging, and 
fetal imaging.

     "Who would have dreamed that lasers used to measure 
Earth's ozone layer could be used to unclog arteries," Goldin 
continued.  "If the past is our guide, our future in space will 
continue to advance medical science."

     NASA is working with the National Institutes of Health, 
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, dozens of 
hospitals, researchers and private companies.  These 
collaborations have resulted in successful new programs to 
diagnose and treat heart disease.

EDITOR'S NOTE:  Information about four technologies in doctorsÕ 
offices today and 13 technologies for the future is available 
at URL:

              http://www.nasa.gov/newsinfo/heart.html

Background resource material for media representatives, 
including photos, video, and points of contact for interviews, 
is available by calling Elvia Thompson, NASA Headquarters 
Public Affairs, at 202/358-1696. 

                  - end -