Heart Café at ESC 2023

Heart failure encompasses a range of causes, including undiagnosed and treatable conditions such as Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM). Elevating awareness about ATTR-CM within the scientific community is crucial for improving patients’ quality of life. The consensus document on ATTR-CM by the World Heart Federation serves as a comprehensive resource, covering various aspects of the disease. Its primary objective is to stimulate action within the scientific community, emphasizing the urgent need for early diagnosis, effective management, and timely treatment of this condition, which can potentially affect millions of individuals. 

A panel of experts discuss the recommendations outlined in the consensus report on ATTR-CM and focus on practical strategies to implement them on a country level. The panel explores potential approaches to raise awareness, enhance screening and diagnostic protocols, and optimize treatment pathways to ensure prompt intervention for individuals affected by ATTR-CM.

Speakers:

Marianna Fontana

University College London

Dulce Brito

Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte

David Gregory

Amyloidosis Alliance

Moderated by:

Thomas Gaziano

Harvard University

Cholesterol, often overlooked and underestimated, stands as an under-addressed risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). While awareness of heart health has grown, the focus tends to lean toward risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, and obesity, leaving cholesterol in the shadows. However, it is crucial to recognise the significant role that cholesterol plays in the development of CVD. High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can accumulate in the arteries, forming plaques that restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Consequently, it is vital to raise awareness and prioritise routine cholesterol screenings, as well as implement effective interventions such as lifestyle modifications and medications, to mitigate this under-addressed risk factor. By focusing on cholesterol and integrating it into comprehensive cardiovascular risk management strategies, we can take significant strides toward preventing and managing CVD, ultimately improving the health outcomes of countless individuals. 

WHF has recently released an updated Roadmap on Cholesterol, which has already been implemented in several countries. In this panel discussion, we delve into the challenges encountered and attempt to identify effective solutions that can drive policy change to enhance the management of cholesterol as a risk factor.

Speakers:

Neil Johnson

Global Heart Hub

Raul Santos

University of São Paulo

Clara Chow

Westmead Applied Research Centre

Paul Dendale

European Association of Preventive Cardiology

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular complications often go hand in hand, presenting a multifaceted and interconnected challenge. Understanding the intricate connection between these two conditions is crucial for effective management and patient care. CKD, characterized by progressive kidney function decline, and cardiovascular complications encompass a broad spectrum of disorders, including heart failure, coronary artery disease, and hypertension. These conditions share common risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms, contributing to a bidirectional relationship that amplifies their impact on patient health. 

This panel discussion aims to delve into the complexities of the relationship between CKD and cardiovascular complications, exploring the underlying mechanisms, shared risk factors, and clinical implications. Experts in nephrology, cardiology, and related disciplines will share their insights and experiences in navigating this intricate link.

Speakers:

Helen Yeh

AstraZeneca

Valerie Luyckx

International Society of Nephrology

Dorairaj Prabhakaran

Public Health Foundation of India

Steven Macari

Association Vie et Coeur

Moderated by:

Laurence Sperling

Emory Center for Heart Disease Prevention

About 35 million people have an acute coronary or cerebrovascular event every year, and between 20% to 40% of these events occur in individuals with established cardiovascular disease (CVD). The five-year CVD rate of recurrent MI, stroke or heart failure or CV death, is estimated to be about 30 % for patients with known cardiovascular disease, which is about five times greater
than the corresponding rate of people without known CVD. Those with clinical vascular disease (coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, or peripheral vascular disease) can be easily identified and efficiently treating them with effective, evidence-based therapies, would prevent many vascular events and their complications, death and disability. This would reduce health care costs, increase economic productivity and improve quality of life in this population.  We will focus the conversation on real-world experiences and case studies that can help inform a more holistic approach to CV prevention.    

The conversation will take its inspiration in the findings of the soon-to-be launched update to the WHF Roadmap on Secondary Prevention and how the solutions proposed can support patients in their post-hospitalization journey to improved health.

Speakers:

Aaysha Cader

Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital, Bangladesh

Maria George

INOCA International

Jeroen Hendriks

Flinders University, Australia

Moderated by:

Clara Chow

Westmead Applied Research Centre (WARC)

Global Heart is the official and primary publication of the World Heart Federation, offering a platform for research, developments, and solutions in global cardiovascular disease with a special focus on low- and middle-income countries. With this unique scope, Global Heart has built a diverse and global readership, a growing impact factor, and an impressive body of online, open-access publications.  Join us for an interactive discussion with editor-in-chief Professor Rick Grobbee and members of the editorial team to learn more about the journal and publication process. Emphasis will be on discussion and audience interaction, so come ready to ask questions. 

Speakers:

Rick Grobbee

Global Heart Journal

Moderated by:

Pablo Perel

World Heart Federation

Patient adherence plays a crucial role in the management and prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). By adhering to treatment plans and making necessary lifestyle changes, patients with CVD can optimize their overall cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of complications, and improve their quality of life. Healthcare providers play a vital role in educating patients about the importance of adherence and addressing any barriers or challenges that may hinder their ability to follow recommended guidelines. 

This panel will include perspectives of various patients. By valuing and incorporating the patient’s perspective, healthcare professionals can gain a deeper understanding of the individual’s needs, preferences, and experiences.

Speakers:

Max Groenhart

Harteraad

Steven Macari

AVEC : Association Vie et Cœur

Maria George

INOCA International

Moderated by:

Juan Carlos Kaski

St George's University Hospital NHS Trust

Clara Ines Saldarriaga

Clinica CardioVid