Photo by burak kostak from Pexels

Scientists in Scotland are testing the first ever medical treatment for a broken heart. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy — or broken heart syndrome — affects thousands of people each year, with estimates finding that it may be the cause of one to two percent of all heart attacks. Women are far more likely to experience the condition than men, according to previous studies. Currently, there is little evidence of an effective therapy that helps alleviate symptoms or helps people dealing with a broken heart live longer. Now, researchers at the University of Aberdeen are conducting a trial of exercise conditioning and psychological therapy for people experiencing Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The study will span three years, thanks to a grant from the British Heart Foundation. The new trial will recruit 90 people from across Scotland within three weeks of doctors diagnosing them with this condition.