[Recent Topics on Heart Failure].

Abstract

Japan is currently experiencing a significant increase in the number of patients with heart failure driven by its rapidly aging population, a phenomenon termed the heart failure pandemic. This trend is particularly alarming because heart failure severely affects life expectancy, making it a critical public health issue. The rising number of heart failure cases has highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, with heart failure now classified into distinct stages to better tailor treatment strategies. Recent advancements in treatment, including new pharmacological options such as SGLT2 inhibitors and non-pharmacological approaches such as transcatheter aortic valve implantation and catheter ablation, have significantly improved patient outcomes. These treatments are particularly effective in managing the complexities of heart failure, especially in older patients. However, the success of these treatments also relies on a comprehensive approach involving multidisciplinary teams working together to provide holistic care. These therapeutic innovations underscore the importance of continued adaptation and research to sustain the effectiveness of heart failure treatment in the evolving healthcare environment of Japan's aging population.