Unico Hospital hosted a round table session titled “Updates in Management of Valvular Heart Disease: Enhancing Awareness and Care” aimed at updating healthcare professionals on the latest diagnostic approaches and treatment strategies for valvular heart disease. The initiative focused on strengthening clinical decision-making, enhancing professional awareness, and improving patient care through expert discussions and collaborative learning.
Prof Dr Md Faizus Sazzad, from the Department of Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery at Unico Hospital, delivered the keynote presentation. He highlighted recent advancements in the diagnosis, treatment, and overall management of valvular heart disease, stressing the increasing burden of the condition in Bangladesh. He said in a press release that early detection, timely intervention, and multidisciplinary management are key to improving patient outcomes.
The session was moderated by Dr Mustak Ibn Ayub, Associate Professor in the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology at Dhaka University. Prof Dr Md Zahirul Islam (Shakil), Respiratory Medicine Specialist and Secretary General of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh (DAB), attended as the Chief Guest. In his speech, he praised the growing engagement of doctors in scientific discussions and emphasised the role such initiatives can play in shaping healthcare policy and bridging gaps between patients, clinicians, and healthcare institutions.
The Special Guest, Prof Dr Md Jahir Rayhan, Head of the Department of Neurosurgery at Dhaka Medical College and Addl Director General (Administration), also shared valuable insights during the session. The event was further attended by Unico Hospital CEO Ardra Kurien, senior consultants, and other healthcare experts.
Discussions throughout the event addressed the rising prevalence of valvular heart disease in Bangladesh, particularly among economically vulnerable patients who often face challenges in accessing timely treatment due to financial constraints. Experts highlighted the need for increased awareness, continuous medical education, and coordinated healthcare initiatives to improve patient support and outcomes.
Speakers stressed that through collaboration among government bodies, private healthcare institutions, donor agencies, medical professionals, and socially responsible individuals, a sustainable support system could be developed for underprivileged patients suffering from heart valve disease.
Given the increasing disease burden, rising treatment costs, and associated humanitarian concerns, participants called for urgent, coordinated action to ensure accessible, affordable, and quality cardiac care for all.
