Prof Brendan McAdam
President, Irish Cardiac Society
This World Heart Day, the theme ‘Heart for Action’ calls on individuals, communities and governments to take proactive steps to combat heart disease and improve heart health.
Each year in Ireland, nearly 9,000 people lose their lives to cardiovascular disease (CVD), and thousands more live with life-changing consequences. This is not just a health issue; In 2021, the estimated costs attributed to CVD in Ireland (including health and social care, as well as losses due to morbidity and mortality) were €3.4 billion.
Strategic action on cardiovascular disease
The Irish Cardiac Society (ICS) has been advocating alongside partner cardiac societies for an EU Cardiovascular plan and implementation of a National Cardiovascular Health Strategy. Priorities include timely and equitable access to services and embracing effective treatments according to the latest European Society of Cardiology guidelines. It also supports the use of registries to collect accurate data on healthcare provision to meet health service demands, the accessibility for all for cardiac rehabilitation services throughout the country and the recently established community hubs.
Each year in Ireland, nearly
9,000 people lose their lives to
cardiovascular disease (CVD).
AI and infrastructure advances in cardiology
The ICS also endorses better use of existing resources in primary and secondary care, alongside sufficient investment in initiatives, infrastructure and AI. This will support individuals and communities in prioritising heart health and preventing disease. The Society is also working closely with the Faculty of Radiology to advance the use of Cardiac Imaging in Ireland.
The ICS annual meeting in October will bring together its members along with nursing and physiologist colleagues for Ireland’s largest cardiology meeting. Delegates will hear keynote and abstract presentations deliver updates on clinical and research developments, plus best practices in cardiovascular care.
Inclusive and gender-specific cardiology care
An international session with speakers from the European Society of Cardiology, the American College of Cardiology and the British Cardiovascular Society will explore gender-specific care, highlighting the issues, challenges and opportunities in the treatment of women with CVD. This aligns closely with the Society’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging for both cardiology colleagues and the patient population across Ireland.
The 76th ICS annual scientific meeting and AGM will take place October 16–18 in Killarney. See www.irishcardiacsociety.ie for details.
