Everyday, more than 2,700 heart failure patients are admitted to US hospitals primarily for fluid overload. Heart failure affects approximately 5 million Americans and is responsible for more than 3.1 million annual hospitalizations. This surpasses the number of hospitalizations due to all forms of cancer and myocardial infarctions combined. A study published in the February 13, 2007, issue of Journal of the American College of Cardiology shares some good news for patients with heart failure and their families. The Ultrafiltration Versus IV Diuretics for Patients Hospitalized for Acute Decompensated Congestive Heart Failure (UNLOAD) study shows that when heart failure patients with fluid overload receive a simplified form of ultrafiltation therapy as part of their care, they lose more weight and fluid and experience fewer rehospitalizations than patients treated primarily with intravenous diuretics, the standard of care.

With the UNLOAD study,

1. Physicians have a more predictable, effective treatment option

2. Patients experience improved outcomes

3. Hospitals may realize significant cost savings

For more information on the UNLOAD study, log on to http://www.unloadstudy.com or contact Diane Hauge at [email protected].