A new treatment method for heart failure is now being used in UK hospitals. It gives patients higher drug doses earlier in care – and the results are impressive: a 62% drop in deaths and 30% fewer hospital readmissions.
Faster Treatment Saves Lives
The new approach is called “rapid titration.” It helps patients reach their full medication dose within just two to three weeks after diagnosis. In the past, this process often took nine to twelve months.
These findings come from the global Strong-HF trial, which involved 87 hospitals across 14 countries. The trial showed that early and intensive drug treatment can greatly improve outcomes for people living with heart failure.
London and Swansea Hospitals Lead the Way
St George’s Hospital in London and Morriston Hospital in Swansea are among the first in the UK to use this method.
Matthew Sunter, lead heart failure nurse at St George’s, explained:
“In the past, we would slowly increase doses over many months. Now, patients are seen just one week after leaving the hospital and begin full treatment faster. It’s a real gamechanger.”
This strategy is similar to how cancer patients receive full doses of chemotherapy early to boost recovery chances.
First Patients Already Benefiting
At St George’s Hospital, 14 patients have already received the new treatment. The team plans to treat about 100 more each year.
Morriston Hospital aims to offer it to around 500 patients per year in Swansea and Neath Port Talbot.
Not for Everyone – Careful Screening Needed
Doctors stress that the new treatment isn’t right for every patient. Before starting, patients are checked to make sure their blood pressure and kidney function can handle the stronger medication.
Dr Parin Shah, consultant cardiologist at Morriston, said:
“It won’t suit everyone. But for the right patients, the benefits are huge.”
NHS and Experts Welcome the Breakthrough
Professor Simon Roy, NHS England’s clinical director for heart disease, shared his support:
“This could change the lives of thousands. It shows how the NHS brings the best treatments to patients quickly.”
Emily McGrath from the British Heart Foundation called the new method “hugely promising.” A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care called it an “extraordinary breakthrough.” They said it highlights the UK’s global leadership in medical innovation.
A Chronic Condition with New Hope
Heart failure affects nearly 1 million people in the UK. The disease has no cure and often leads to fatigue, breathlessness, and repeat hospital visits.
The UK government has pledged to cut avoidable deaths caused by chronic illnesses like heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes.
Thanks to early success, this new model of early and intensive treatment could soon become the standard of care – helping thousands live longer, healthier lives and stay out of the hospital.