– new campaign encourages Guyanese to walk, run, and dance for healthier heart

THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) successfully hosted the 2025 Cardiology Symposium on June 7 at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, bringing together top medical minds to share insights and promote collaboration in the field of cardiovascular medicine.

The symposium featured a diverse panel of leading healthcare professionals who delivered engaging and informative presentations on key areas of cardiovascular care. The event served as a platform for knowledge exchange and highlighted recent advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart-related conditions.
Among the featured speakers was Dr. Baldeo Singh, who delivered the prestigious Annual Doobay Memorial Lecture on Cardiorenal Syndrome (CRS). Dr. Singh presented a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology of CRS, citing its links to haemodynamic changes, neurohormonal activation, inflammation, and venous congestion. He identified heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension as major contributing factors.
Ms. Onika Jervis, in her dynamic presentation on Preventative Cardiology, introduced the audience to the “SOCA HEART” campaign—an initiative adapted from the earlier Stride Programme. She emphasised the importance of regular physical activity for heart health and engaged attendees with an interactive session to underscore her message. The campaign encourages public participation in weekly walking and running events to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Dr. Jesus V. Alvarez explored the complexities of Postpartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a rare but life-threatening condition affecting women during the final month of pregnancy or within five months postpartum. He detailed various causes, including genetic, hormonal, and autoimmune factors, while noting risk groups such as women of African descent and those with preeclampsia or multiple pregnancies.
Other notable presentations included: Dr. Suruj Harrichand – Left Accessory Pathway; Dr. Pradeep Ramkoomar – Surgical Approach to Vascular Heart Disease; Dr. Michael Chin – Management of STEMI in Regional Hospitals; and Dr. Reshmi Nauth – Management of Heart Failure

Representatives from pharmaceutical companies Apotex and Jamieson were also in attendance, underscoring the importance of multi-sectoral support for cardiovascular care.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services, especially in cardiovascular health. He highlighted the ongoing rollout of

the HEARTS Programme, a WHO-backed initiative aimed at reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease through evidence-based protocols and wide-reaching public health interventions.
“HEARTS is currently operational at 221 sites across the country,” Dr. Anthony announced, praising the collaborative work between the Ministry of Health, healthcare providers, and international partners in strengthening Guyana’s cardiology landscape.

The 2025 Cardiology Symposium stands as a testament to GPHC’s dedication to fostering innovation, professional development, and patient-centered care in the fight against heart disease.