Study finds high risk of readmission and death among heart failure patients
Medical Xpress
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new study highlights concerning statistics about heart failure patients in Europe. Nearly half of those hospitalized for acute heart failure are readmitted within a year, and the risk of death remains significant, particularly among individuals with severely reduced heart function. This research, led by Karolinska Institutet and published in *The European Heart Journal*, underscores the challenges faced by these patients and the need for improved care strategies.
The study analyzed data from over 100,000 acute heart failure patients across 25 European countries. It found that readmission rates varied slightly between regions but consistently remained high. For instance, patients in Western Europe had a readmission rate of nearly 47%, while Southern Europe saw slightly lower rates at around 43%. These figures highlight the widespread nature of the problem and its impact on healthcare systems across the continent.
The risk of death within a year was found to be particularly concerning for those with more severe heart function issues. Patients with an ejection fraction—a measure of how much blood is pumped out of the heart with each contraction—of less than 40% had significantly higher mortality rates compared to those with better heart function. This emphasizes the importance of early intervention and targeted therapies for these high-risk individuals.
The findings have important implications for healthcare providers and policymakers. High readmission rates not only strain healthcare resources but also indicate gaps in current management strategies. Improved post-discharge care, such as better patient education, medication adherence programs, and regular follow-ups, could help reduce these rates. Additionally, identifying patients at higher risk of complications early on may lead to more effective interventions.
This study serves as a call to action for the medical community to prioritize heart failure management. By addressing the root causes of readmissions and mortality, healthcare systems can improve outcomes and reduce the burden on hospitals. For patients and their families, understanding these risks is crucial for advocating better care and adhering to treatment plans.
Overall, the study paints a concerning picture for acute heart failure patients in Europe, but it also points the way forward for improving their prognosis through targeted interventions and better healthcare coordination.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/25/2026