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Taking cardiac surgery to the people
Magdi Yacoub1, Ahmed ElGuindy, Ahmed Afifi
1Harefield Heart Science Centre, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK, m.yacoub@imperial.ac.uk.
Journal of Cardiovascular Translational Research
|November 2, 2014
Summary
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading global cause of death, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This article examines challenges and solutions for establishing vital cardiac surgery programs in these regions.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of mortality worldwide.
- The majority (80%) of the global CVD burden resides in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
- Cardiac surgery infrastructure is notably underdeveloped in many LMICs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify challenges and barriers to establishing cardiac surgery programs in LMICs.
- To explore existing initiatives and strategies for overcoming these obstacles.
- To use a cardiac surgery center in Aswan, Egypt, as a case study.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on CVD burden and cardiac surgery in LMICs.
- Case study analysis of a cardiac surgery program in Aswan, Egypt.
- Qualitative assessment of challenges and proposed solutions.
Main Results:
- Significant barriers include lack of funding, trained personnel, and essential equipment.
- Successful program establishment requires tailored, sustainable, and locally relevant strategies.
- The Aswan center demonstrates potential for growth despite resource limitations.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the CVD epidemic in LMICs necessitates strengthening cardiac surgery services.
- Overcoming barriers requires collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and policy support.
- Developing sustainable cardiac surgery programs is crucial for reducing global mortality.