The Brunei Cardiac Society convened its 11th Annual Scientific Meeting on Sunday, welcoming cardiologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across the region to the International Convention Centre (ICC) Brunei.
With a theme focused on “Everyday Cardiology,” the event aims to highlight the latest innovations in cardiac health, treatment, and research, bringing together experts to share insights and advancements that impact everyday practice.
The Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Md Isham bin Hj Jaafar delivered the opening speech as the guest of honour, underscoring the government’s commitment to advancing cardiac healthcare.
The Minister has often emphasised the importance of multi-level collaboration in combating cardiovascular diseases, a sentiment that aligns with the mission of the Brunei Cardiac Society.
A key feature of the meeting is the plenary lecture by the Director of Disease Management at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in California and former President of the American College of Cardiology Dr Dipti Itchhaporia titled “Artificial Intelligence in Cardiovascular Medicine: From Prediction to Transformation of Patient Care,” which explores the profound impact AI has on clinical medicine.
She delves into how AI can shape the future of healthcare by improving both predictive and therapeutic measures, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
The event also marked the unveiling of the Brunei Cardiac Society’s new logo, with a special prize presentation ceremony held in honour of the logo competition winner, Nurajilla binti Haji Abdullah. The guest of honour presented the award.
The meeting covers an array of vital topics, ranging from ischaemic heart disease epidemiology specific to Brunei and advanced imaging techniques to cutting-edge lipid-lowering strategies and updates on clinical practice guidelines from the European and American Cardiology Societies (ESC/ACC) for 2024.
Attendees will also explore the benefits of leadless pacemaker therapy in Brunei, the progress in minimally invasive coronary artery bypass surgery, and approaches to managing pulmonary arterial hypertension. A session dedicated to acute stroke management and newer anticoagulation agents will add valuable insights, along with presentations of unique cardiology cases that arise in day-to-day practice.
The event features research presentations that push the boundaries of current cardiac care knowledge, with studies addressing key issues like dilated cardiomyopathy and ischaemic heart disease. These presentations will offer glimpses into pioneering treatments and preventative strategies that have the potential to redefine cardiac care in Brunei.
Networking opportunities will abound as attendees are encouraged to connect, exchange ideas, and foster collaborations. This element of the meeting underscores the Brunei Cardiac Society’s commitment to facilitating partnerships that can advance cardiac health on a broader scale.
Founded in 2013, the Brunei Cardiac Society remains dedicated to improving cardiovascular care in Brunei Darussalam.
Through its affiliation with global organisations such as the European Society of Cardiology and the Asia Pacific Society of Cardiology, the Society continues to build bridges in the global cardiology community, positioning Brunei as an active participant in advancing cardiac health knowledge.
The 11th Annual Scientific Meeting is anticipated to be an inspiring platform for healthcare professionals in Brunei, strengthening efforts to tackle cardiovascular disease and enhance patient care across the nation. – James Kon