First World Congress on Rheumatic Heart Disease to be held in Abu Dhabi

World Heart Federation to host pivotal event in the UAE capital.

Abu Dhabi /UAE

The World Heart Federation is proud to announce that the first-ever World Congress on Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) will be held in Abu Dhabi at the Hilton Hotel, Yas Island, from November 2 to 4. This pivotal event will bring together global experts on RHD, including prominent researchers, practitioners, patients, and advocates.

The Congress aims to shed light on the latest research in the field of RHD, facilitate meaningful dialogues with global leaders, and devise practical and tangible solutions to bring an end to this devastating disease.

“The gravity of rheumatic heart disease, particularly in regions where it stubbornly persists, necessitates urgent, collective action. The Congress is not merely a meeting of minds, but a fusion of knowledge, experience, and collaborative resolve to eradicate RHD. It is imperative that we synthesize our efforts to tackle the systemic and medical challenges underscoring this disease,” said Prof Liesl Zühlke, Vice-Chair of the Congress Steering Committee.

While RHD has been virtually eradicated in many regions, it continues to cast a shadow over vulnerable communities in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, South-East Asia, and the Western Pacific. The statistics are sobering, with RHD affecting an estimated 40 million individuals worldwide and claiming more than 300,000 lives annually.

Prof Jagat Narula, President-Elect of the World Heart Federation, said: “Convening the first World Congress on Rheumatic Heart Disease in Abu Dhabi marks a seminal moment in our relentless pursuit of eradicating RHD. Abu Dhabi, with its rich cultural ethos and state-of-the-art facilities, provides an inspirational setting for leaders, advocates, and patients to collaborate. This Congress symbolizes a unified, global front against RHD, and amplifies our commitment to fostering innovation, exchanging knowledge, and mobilizing resources in our battle against this preventable disease.”

Abu Dhabi is a vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis. Today, the city gracefully marries its deep-rooted history and rich cultural tapestry with a modern spirit, making it the perfect backdrop for such a transformative global event.

In addition to discussing the challenges and innovations surrounding RHD, participants will have the opportunity to experience Abu Dhabi’s unique blend of ancient history, captivating nature, and warm hospitality.

This event is being held in partnership with other leading international organizations in the RHD space, and with the local support of the Emirates Cardiac Society and the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau.