A noteworthy event took place at Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) Hospitals in Nadi, where the inaugural “Know Your Heart” symposium was held on Saturday, March 1, attracting numerous health-conscious attendees. The symposium focused on raising awareness about heart health and prevention strategies, featuring expert insights from top specialists in the field.
The expert discussions were led by Dr. Srikar Miryala, a renowned interventional cardiologist, and Dr. Sanjeev Khulbey, a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon who recently completed a week of open-heart surgeries. Dr. Khulbey presented valuable information on the causes and prevention of heart disease, emphasizing the need for lifestyle changes to reduce risks associated with cardiovascular conditions.
Key recommendations from Dr. Khulbey included maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables while limiting red meat and alcohol intake, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. “The risk of heart disease significantly increases after the age of 40. While it’s a privilege to enjoy a variety of foods, moderation is crucial for sustaining good health,” he remarked.
Dr. Khulbey also suggested that every household in Fiji consider having a blood pressure and blood sugar monitor to keep track of essential health indicators.
Addressing unique health challenges in Fiji, Dr. Miryala highlighted the rising prevalence of heart disease linked to substance abuse, particularly the high consumption of kava. He urged the importance of seeking medical help early, as many patients often wait until experiencing serious symptoms before consulting healthcare providers.
PSH Hospitals’ CEO, Parvish Kumar, announced plans to continue organizing health symposiums on a range of topics to foster public awareness and preventive healthcare throughout the region.
This initiative reflects a vital commitment to improving heart health knowledge and access to preventive measures within the community. By empowering individuals with knowledge and tools for better health management, such events could play a crucial role in tackling the rising incidence of heart disease in Fiji. The hope is that increased awareness will lead to healthier lifestyle choices and ultimately, a healthier population.
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