Prevention key to combating rising number of people with heart conditions

Dubai, UAE, 26 April, 2018: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) accounts for 30% of all deaths in the UAE, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), yet those at risk of suffering from heart problems can easily prevent it through behaviour and lifestyle changes.

Top doctors from luxury Swiss clinic, Nescens Clinique de Genolier, have cited a number of preventative methods in order to combat and reduce the risk of CVD in the Middle East.

Among the contributing factors to doctors’ concerns has been the increase in the diagnoses of diabetic patients across the region.

Dr Henri Sunthorn, a specialist in interventional rhythmology at Nescens Clinique De Genolier said, “The number of diabetic children and adults has had a knock-on effect to other more complicated diseases. Whether they are type 1 or 2, diabetics are dealing with a chronic disease that impacts other organs such as the eyes, kidneys and more importantly the heart.

“As with all diseases, prevention is better than cure. Considering Type 2 diabetes can be prevented outright, several of the lifestyle changes that have an impact on pre-diabetics will also significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.”

Dr Alain Guidon, specialist in cardiology and cardiovascular rehabilitation and Dr Vitali Verin, specialist in invasive cardiology for Nescens Clinique De Genolier echo Dr Sunthorn’s concerns about the dramatic need for lifestyle changes in order to reduce risk of heart diseases.

Dr Verin said, “A lot of coronary diseases in the region can be attributed to obesity, diabetes, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle.”

Dr Guidon added, “Even the simplest changes such as a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco and regular physical exercise can have an immediate impact. Added to this, cutting out red meat, consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables and monitoring salt intake will further reduce risk of disease.”

In addition to altering negatively impacting habits, experts stress the importance of early detection which, through an effective global care network, can prevent further complications.

State-of-the-art practices and equipment at the Nescens Clinique De Genolier, coupled with their ability to tap into the larger Swiss Medical Network has earned the clinic a reputation as one of the leading preventive medical establishments globally.

“We benefit from the most recent medical techniques allowing optimal heart exploration, which is a strength. Experienced cardiologists are accredited to the Swiss Medical Network. On top of this, I have connections with different institutions including University Hospital which offers a large network of care,” said Dr Guidon.

Doctors from the Clinique suggest that any intervention considered should be part of a complete medical program led by a specialist in internal medicine coordinating the interventions of various specialists, including cardiologists, using the results of the various examinations to prepare a comprehensive care program.

Referred to as their “global approach” focus, the Clinique’s widespread network of professionals supplement their in-depth and customizable cardiac check-up programs, designed to detect complications and help doctors prepare appropriate care plans.

Dr Sunthorn added, “While most of the cardiac exams practiced in Nescens are common in other clinics in Switzerland and around the world, what differs and what strengthens us here at Nescens is the proximity to the Clinique de Genolier. 

“Most of the specialists at Clinique de Genolier have their medical office on site which means that if, during a checkup a cardiac failure is detected, the patient can immediately be treated and benefit from an optimal medical follow-up.”

Nescens Clinique De Genolier is a luxury Swiss clinic exclusively dedicated to preventive medicine and anti-aging programmes, employing experts with over 20 years’ experience in the field.