Switzerland Embassy and Novartis Advance Heart Health at Cardio Catalyst Forum

The Embassy of Switzerland in Thailand, led by Ambassador Pedro Zwahlen, collaborated with Novartis (Thailand) Limited to host the second ‘Cardio Catalyst: Driving Change in Heart Health’ forum. This event underlined an ongoing commitment to enhancing heart health in Thailand through innovative treatment approaches and strengthened partnerships.

The forum, held at the Swiss Ambassador’s Residence, welcomed key figures, including Somsak Thepsuthin, Thailand’s Minister of Public Health, and Kevin Zou, Asia Aspiring Cluster Head for Novartis International. Discussions were joined by leading cardiologists and stakeholders, focused on improving awareness, expanding treatment options, and fostering alliances to address Thailand’s cardiovascular health challenges.

A highlight of the forum was Minister Somsak Thepsuthin’s presentation of the AHA Get With The Guidelines Heart Failure award to six Thai hospitals. This award recognised their exceptional heart failure care, which aligns with American Heart Association quality standards and international benchmarks.

Inspector General of Health Region 2 at the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Sopon Iamsirithaworn, pointed out the alarming rise in cardiovascular disease cases, particularly among Thailand’s older and working-age populations.

He explained that addressing this issue remains a priority for the Ministry, which has introduced heart failure clinics and digital tools to streamline disease screening, monitoring, and patient advisement. Dr. Sopon expressed appreciation for the medical teams’ dedication, noting their recent award recognitions from the American Heart Association.

Dr. Kasem Ratanasumawong, President of The Heart Association of Thailand, emphasised a two-part approach to combating cardiovascular disease: patient treatment and preventive care for at-risk individuals.

He highlighted the ‘Fast Track’ system for rapid acute coronary syndrome treatment, as well as the nationwide network of heart failure clinics supported by multidisciplinary teams. For disease prevention, the association launched ThaiHealthyHeart.com, a platform countering misinformation on social media. The website provides evidence-based guidance on lifestyle, diet, exercise, and medication for those managing cardiovascular risk factors. The association has also issued updated guidelines for managing acute coronary syndrome, chronic myocardial infarction, and heart failure.

Sumalee Kristarnin, Country President of Novartis (Thailand) Co., Ltd., highlighted the importance of increasing public understanding of cardiovascular risks. She reiterated Novartis’ dedication to reducing heart disease through both medication and partnerships with healthcare professionals and organisations worldwide.

The company seeks to improve cardiovascular care standards in Thailand through collaboration, raising awareness, and supporting initiatives that target patients across all age groups.

The forum outlined the 4A principles in heart disease care: disease awareness, risk assessment, treatment accessibility, and adherence to medical guidelines. Organisers stressed that teamwork across sectors plays a vital role in decreasing mortality rates and hospitalisations, helping patients live healthier, more fulfilling lives.