Our research group is focusing its investigations on the main topic of ischemic heart disease, and extends its approach to adjacent research fields such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

We study optimal secondary prevention after myocardial infarction, e.g., use of beta blockers, cholesterol lowering medications, and elucidate mechanisms linked to myocardial protection.

In addition, we have several projects focusing on cardiovascular (CV) biomarkers, i.e., both known biomarkers used for early diagnostication of myocardial infarction and identification of new biomarkers.

We also study the deleterious effects of anabolic steroids on the cardiovascular system. The efficiency and safety of anticoagulants is being evaluated by accessing data from Norwegian and international registries.

Finally, we have ongoing projects assessing optimal treatment of myocardial infarction, incidence of heart failure in Norway, and prevalence and treatment of atrial fibrillation in Scandinavia. In the MINOCA project, we study the optimal examinations of these patients. The multinational EXHAUSTION will produce more knowledge about the association between climate and CVD.

We also study patients with autoimmune joint diseases and look at inflammatory and cardiac markers in RA patients in relation to CVD. Furthermore we are engaged in a multinational project looking at ultrasound of the carotid artery in relation to CVD.

The Heart Research Award for 2023 was given to Dan Atar, head of the Ischemic heart disease group at the Division of Medicine. The prize was distributed by by H.M. King Harald.
The National Association for Public Health, who distributes the award, highlights Atar's work with new international guidelines for the treatment of heart disorders, in addition to his participation in a number of professional forums both nationally and internationally.
- Dan Atar is one of the most influential researchers in the world. With this award, we want to thank, but also inspire continued efforts to combat heart disease and stroke, says Secretary General, Mina Gerhardsen.