World Heart Podcast

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Dr. Ayesha Kader

Interventional cardiologist at the Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital and Research Institute in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dr. Zeinab Attia Dakhil

Academic and interventional cardiologist at the Ibn Al-Beta Cardiac Center in Baghdad, Iraq

In this powerful episode of the World Heart Podcast, hosts Pablo Patel and Borjana Pervan bring together two inspiring voices in interventional cardiology: Dr. Ayesha Kader, an interventional cardiologist at the Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital and Research Institute in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Dr. Zeinab Attia Dakhil, an academic and interventional cardiologist at the Ibn Al-Beta Cardiac Center in Baghdad, Iraq.

This conversation is the first in a series focusing on women in cardiovascular health, exploring their journeys, challenges, and the future of female leadership in cardiology.

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Key Takeaways

1. Overcoming Gender Barriers in Cardiology

• Women remain underrepresented in cardiology, especially in leadership and interventional roles.
• Cultural and institutional biases still limit opportunities for female cardiologists, particularly in certain regions.
• Both guests highlight the importance of mentorship and support networks to break down these barriers.

2. Representation and Role Models Matter

• “You can’t be what you can’t see.” Visibility of women in cardiology is essential for encouraging future generations.
• The presence of female mentors and leaders helps challenge outdated norms and fosters inclusivity in the field.
• More women in interventional cardiology means better access to healthcare for female patients who may prefer female doctors.

3. Work-Life Balance and Societal Expectations

• Women in medicine often face additional pressures, such as balancing their careers with family responsibilities.
• Biases persist, with women frequently questioned about their ability to manage both family and career commitments.
• Support from partners, institutions, and colleagues is essential to creating an equitable professional environment.

4. Leadership and Change in Cardiology

• Women bring valuable qualities to leadership, including empathy and adaptability.
• Gender diversity in medical leadership leads to better decision-making and improved patient care.
• Encouraging women to take on leadership roles and participate in high-impact research is crucial.

5. The Future of Women in Cardiovascular Medicine

• Organizations like the World Heart Federation can play a vital role in fostering gender equity by ensuring diversity in committees, conferences, and research grants.
• Strengthening mentorship programs for women in cardiology can help bridge the gender gap.
• Advocacy and policy changes are needed to support female cardiologists in balancing career and personal life.

Building a More Inclusive Future

Dr. Kader and Dr. Attia Dakhil emphasize that progress in gender equity requires collective efforts from institutions, male allies, and female leaders. A holistic approach—providing opportunities, mentorship, and systemic change—will drive long-term improvements for women in cardiovascular health.