Risk-based analyses show meaningful differences in outcomes across dietary interventions, biomarkers, and population-level heart failure data.
WASHINGTON, DC (FEBRUARY 10, 2026) – The February issue of the Journal of Cardiac Failure (JCF) reports new analyses that refine how clinicians and researchers interpret commonly used evidence in heart failure, including dietary sodium restriction, lipoprotein(a) as a prognostic biomarker, and population-level epidemiologic data. Across multiple studies, the issue demonstrates that baseline risk substantially modifies outcomes - showing that interventions and markers often produce divergent effects depending on patient risk profile and context of use.
Articles highlighted in the February issue of JCF include:
A featured secondary analysis of the landmark SODIUM-HF trial moves beyond the trial’s neutral primary result to examine heterogeneity in treatment effects, demonstrating that sodium restriction may confer benefit in lower-risk patients while offering no benefit, and possible harm, in those at highest risk. Using a Bayesian, risk-effect-based approach anchored in the MAGGIC heart failure risk score, investigators show strong evidence that baseline risk meaningfully modifies clinical and quality-of-life outcomes. The findings underscore the need to move away from uniform dietary prescriptions and toward risk-informed decision-making in heart failure management.
Another study highlighted in the issue examines lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] as a prognostic marker in established heart failure, finding that levels ≥30 mg/dL independently predict cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalization. The analysis strengthens the case for Lp(a) as more than a risk factor for atherosclerotic disease, positioning it as a biomarker with direct relevance to heart failure outcomes and patient stratification.
The issue also features the HF STATS 2025: Heart Failure Epidemiology and Outcomes Statistics report, the Heart Failure Society of America’s most comprehensive and annual analysis of heart failure burden, outcomes, and costs. Published alongside the report, HFStats.org is designed to translate these data into usable tools for clinicians, researchers, and health systems - supporting grant applications, manuscripts, presentations, and strategic planning. Together, the report and website aim to establish HF Stats as the standard annual reference for credible, citable heart failure statistics.
View the full issue online. For interviews with authors, please contact Laura Poko at lpoko@hfsa.org.
About the Journal of Cardiac Failure
The Journal of Cardiac Failure (JCF) publishes the highest quality science in the field of heart failure with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, mentorship, multidisciplinary partnerships, and patient-centeredness. Published papers span original investigator-initiated work to state-of-the-art reviews, guidelines and scientific statements, expert perspectives, early career and trainee spotlight pieces, patient and patient-partner narratives. JCF also emphasizes the power of language and prioritizes innovative approaches to dissemination of published work to reach and impact the broader heart failure community.
About the Heart Failure Society of America
The Heart Failure Society of America, Inc. (HFSA) represents the first organized effort by heart failure experts from the Americas to provide a forum for all those interested in heart function, heart failure, and congestive heart failure (CHF) research and patient care. The mission of HFSA is to provide a platform to improve and expand heart failure care through collaboration, education, innovation, research, and advocacy. HFSA members include physicians, scientists, nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, trainees, other healthcare workers and patients. For more information, visit hfsa.org.
Media Contact: Laura Poko, 301-798-4493, ext. 226, lpoko@hfsa.org