Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a severe condition of the coronary vessels caused by atherosclerosis. It is the leading cause of heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrest, making it the most common cause of death worldwide. Major risk factors for CAD include age, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, smoking, and genetic predisposition.

Research at the VIVIT focuses on the origin and the driving forces behind these risk factors and on their effect on existing coronary artery disease as well as their role in newly emerging cardiovascular complications. One of VIVIT’s most important projects is centered around patients who were referred to coronary angiography at the Academic Teaching Hospital Feldkirch in recent years due to signs of compromised heart health and invited for regular follow-ups. For each patient, a panel of clinical, anatomical, psychological, and genetic parameters was recorded, which characterizes their risk profile as well as the state of progression of their coronary artery disease. VIVIT started this research over 25 years ago and continues to enroll coronary angiography patients in a current study.

Similar to CAD, peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a consequence of atherosclerosis. PAD involves narrowing of the peripheral arteries, reducing blood flow to the limbs. Affected individuals often need to take breaks while walking, earning PAD the nickname “window shopper’s disease.” CAD and PAD share common risk factors and VIVIT is conducting extensive research to uncover the factors involved in PAD. In this context, VIVIT has established a large and well-characterized cohort of patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD), accompanied by follow-up data spanning more than 10 years.

Conditions such as coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension are not only independent health issues but also major drivers of heart failure. Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure, is a serious cardiovascular condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood effectively to meet the body’s needs. This occurs when the heart muscle becomes too weak or stiff to function properly, leading to a reduced ability to circulate blood throughout the body. VIVIT has established a study cohort of individuals with heart failure to investigate the underlying mechanisms, risk factors, and predictors of this complex condition.

In summary, we have established cohorts of patients with coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and heart failure to enable comprehensive research into these interrelated conditions. By understanding their shared mechanisms and risk factors, we aim to develop holistic approaches to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.