CM praises progress in cardiac care, calls for national prevention programme

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has called for the development of a national prevention programme to address the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases, which remain the leading cause of death worldwide, including in Pakistan. Speaking at the opening of the 12th Annual PACVTS Scientific Conference 2024, he emphasized that preventive measures were essential to reduce disease prevalence and ensuring a healthier future for generations to come.

The conference, hosted by the Sukkur chapter of the Sindh Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (SICVD) at a local hotel, was attended by prominent figures, including Executive Director NICVD Prof Tahir Saghir, Executive Director SICVD Prof Jawaid Akbar Sial, President PACVTS Dr Hasnat Sharif, and Convener PACVTS Dr Ali Raza Mangi.

In his welcome address, the CM underscored the importance of such platforms in advancing cardiovascular and thoracic care, particularly given the presence of distinguished cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons from Pakistan and abroad.

Highlighting the immense burden of cardiovascular diseases, he reiterated their status as the leading global cause of death. He praised healthcare professionals for their tireless contributions in combating these challenges and stressed the need for collective action to tackle this critical public health issue.

Shah lauded the Sindh government’s healthcare initiatives, particularly its unwavering commitment to cardiac care. He highlighted the government's support for the NICVD in Karachi and the expansion of the SICVD through satellite centers. These centers, he noted, had significantly enhanced access to high-quality cardiac care, performing over 4,500 open-heart surgeries and numerous percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) last year alone.

He congratulated Dr Ali Raza Mangi and his team on organizing the scientific conference, which he described as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, research collaboration, and innovation. The CM reaffirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that address the increasing burden of cardiovascular diseases.

The conference, bringing together leading experts, promises to be transformative for the fields of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. Concluding his remarks, Shah wished the delegates a successful conference and a pleasant stay in Karachi. “Together, we can overcome these challenges and build a healthier future for our people,” he remarked.