Discovering Latest Breakthroughs & Best Practices In Cardiology
NUHCS delegates convened with world-renowned cardiology experts at ACC/WCC 2023
PULSE Issue 42 | February 2024
From 4 to 6 March 2023, thousands of cardiovascular professionals around the globe came together at the American College of Cardiology (ACC) Scientific Session with the World Heart Federation’s World Congress of Cardiology (WCC) 2023, to discuss and impart cutting-edge scientific advancements and innovative practices of cardiac care. Besides the intellectual pursuits, the cardiologists also immersed themselves in the rich cultural experiences of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, where the congress was held. The city's classic jazz music, delectable Creole cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and captivating colonial architecture added to their overall experience. Despite being a few weeks after Mardi Gras, the festive atmosphere still lingered as one strolled down Bourbon Street. These experiences provided a sense of genuine normalcy, a much-needed respite after years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
During this conference, at least 12,854 professionals lined up to have their picture taken in front of the prominent ACC logo at the foyer of Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, which stretches to the length of about two football fields. National University Heart Centre, Singapore (NUHCS) delegated Adj Prof Poh Kian Keong, Director of Research and Senior Consultant, Dept. of Cardiology, NUHCS, Asst Prof Lim Toon Wei, Head of Community Cardiology and Senior Consultant, Dept. of Cardiology, NUHCS, and Asst Prof Lin Weiqin, Clinical Director of Heart Failure Programme and Senior Consultant, Dept. of Cardiology, NUHCS, to exchange insights with interregional experts on cardiology care at the conference. The conference commenced with late-breaking clinical trial sessions that drew an overwhelming number of audiences, covering both preventive aspects of cardiology and groundbreaking innovations in interventional cardiology.
One notable study presented was the CLEAR Outcomes trial, which shed light on a promising hope for managing statin-intolerant patients with the preventive benefits of Bempedoic Acid. The TRILUMINATE study was another intriguing session presented, delving into the innovational and interventional aspects of cardiology by exploring new grounds on Tricuspid Edge-to-Edge Repair (TEER) with the TripClip. Throughout the conference, attendees were endowed with a multitude of interactive and educational sessions, offering an informative experience for all.
This was the first international cardiology conference that Dr Rodney has been to and it was an honour for him to be given an opportunity to present his ongoing research project on Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation. The research project was titled “Impact of Differing Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease on Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Outcome in an Asian Population”. It was a great experience for Dr Rodney as he managed to present this topic to an international group of audience and exchange excellent research ideas along the way.
During the ACC/WCC conference, the significant and remarkable contributions of Prof Poh were also honoured. Appointed as the Chair of the Assembly of International Governors (AIG) two years ago, Prof Poh has been actively involved in fostering international scientific collaboration, education and knowledge exchange within ACC and globally. Despite his many commitments, roles and clinical duties, Prof Poh has successfully led the AIG community which consists of 16,000 members in 42 chapters around the globe. With the ACC, he transformed cardiovascular care and enhanced global health with emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion. He also spearheaded multiple key projects including quality improvement, enhancing educational resources, leadership, and early career training, and optimised value of care.
Prof Poh is the first and only individual from Asia to be entrusted with this prestigious position. His dedication and accomplishments have indeed raised the Singaporean and NUHCS flags to great heights.
Beyond the intellectual gains, Dr Rodney had the opportunity to interact with different prominent cardiologists and befriend fellows-in- training from this conference. Apart from work, he also had a fair share of fun during his stay in New Orleans, from learning more about history at the National World War II Museum to having New Orleans-flavoured dinner together with his seniors and colleagues. This trip has left an everlasting impression on Dr Rodney and he hopes to be able to attend another ACC conference again in the near future.
ACC/WCC 2023 saw immense energy and passion from all attendees and it opened opportunities for them to reconnect with old friends and forge new connections through the various sessions conducted. Facilitating the exchange of perspectives and knowledge among participants and providing fellows with interactive experiences, this event fostered camaraderie and illuminated a promising path for the future of cardiology.
