A significant milestone was celebrated at Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospitals in Nadi with the launch of the first-ever “Know Your Heart” symposium on March 1. This event was designed to enhance public understanding of heart health and preventative measures, drawing a large crowd of health-conscious individuals interested in improving their cardiovascular wellness.
The symposium featured insights from eminent specialists in cardiology, including Dr. Srikar Miryala, an established interventional cardiologist, and Dr. Sanjeev Khulbey, a cardiothoracic surgeon who recently completed a series of open-heart surgeries. Dr. Khulbey shared crucial information surrounding the causes and prevention of heart diseases, stressing the importance of lifestyle modifications to mitigate risks.
In his presentation, Dr. Khulbey emphasized the necessity of a balanced diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, while advising limits on red meat and alcohol consumption. He encouraged regular physical activity and discouraged tobacco use, noting that the likelihood of developing heart disease increases significantly after the age of 40. “While enjoying a variety of foods is a privilege, moderation is essential to maintain good health,” he stated.
Furthermore, Dr. Khulbey recommended that every household in Fiji should consider having a blood pressure and blood sugar monitor as a proactive step towards tracking vital health metrics.
Focusing on unique health-related issues in Fiji, Dr. Miryala pointed out the increasing rates of heart disease closely tied to substance abuse, especially the widespread use of kava. He advocated for early medical intervention, as many individuals tend to delay seeking help until they experience severe symptoms.
PSH Hospitals’ CEO, Parvish Kumar, expressed a commitment to organizing ongoing health symposiums covering various topics to enhance public education and encourage preventive healthcare practices in the region.
This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing community knowledge about heart health and access to preventive measures. By equipping individuals with the essential tools for health management, such events can significantly contribute to addressing the growing rates of heart disease in Fiji. With increased awareness, there is hope that more people will adopt healthier lifestyle choices, leading to an overall healthier population in the long run.
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