KUWAIT: The Second Heart Failure Symposium, hosted by the Kuwait Heart Association in collaboration with the Sabah Al-Ahmad Cardiology Center last week, placed a stark spotlight on the dangerous intersection between rising obesity rates and the growing risk of sudden cardiac death. Launched by Dr Rashid Al-Awish, Secretary General of the Kuwait Heart Association, the conference aimed to enhance national healthcare by addressing the latest developments in diagnosing and treating heart failure, with a particular focus on high-risk populations such as diabetics, pregnant women, and—critically—obese individuals.

Obesity a major threat

In a keynote presentation, Dr Musa Akbar, Head of the Cardiac Unit at Al-Sabah Hospital, delivered a sobering assessment of Kuwait’s obesity epidemic and its direct consequences on heart health. According to Dr. Akbar, Kuwait’s obesity rate—estimated at 36 to 37.7 percent—is among the highest in the Gulf region, with women disproportionately affected. He pointed to clinical evidence showing a strong correlation between obesity and life-threatening cardiac conditions, including heart muscle disorders, arrhythmias, and in severe cases, sudden cardiac death.

Dr Akbar emphasized the urgent need for early screening and risk detection, noting that in many instances, individuals with morbid obesity may have underlying, undiagnosed cardiac issues that increase their vulnerability to fatal outcomes.

Medical solutions

The symposium also explored treatment strategies that can help reverse or manage obesity-related heart risks. Dr Akbar outlined both pharmacological and surgical options that improve cardiac performance, lower blood pressure, and better manage diabetes—three outcomes that significantly reduce the risk of heart failure. He added that weight reduction not only improves overall health but directly eases the burden on the cardiovascular system.

Conference Chairman Dr Bassam Bu Al-Banat noted that this year’s event incorporated advanced discussions on rare heart diseases and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiovascular care. AI’s emerging role in diagnostics and outcome prediction was the subject of a dedicated session, underscoring the importance of data-driven solutions in modern medicine.

The symposium welcomed cardiology experts from the United States, Canada, Australia, the UK, and the UAE. Local participation was also strong, with physicians, residents, and trainees from across Kuwait’s healthcare system engaging in knowledge exchange and presenting original research. A research competition closed the event, highlighting innovations in myocardial failure treatment.