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Malaysia ’ s Fight Against Cardiovascular Disease
Latest innovations in heart screening procedures enable patients to take ownership of their cardiovascular health
Cardiovascular diseases ( CVDs ) present a substantial global health concern , and Malaysia , is not immune to this health issue . As reported by the World Health Organization , CVDs contribute to nearly 25 % of all fatalities in the country . However , the silver lining lies in early detection , which can potentially prevent fatal outcomes . To aid in the early identification of potential CVDs , four hospitals in Malaysia , namely , Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre ( BTMC ) in Klang ; Cardiac Vascular Sentral Kuala Lumpur ( CVSKL ) in Kuala Lumpur ; Mahkota Medical Centre in Melaka ; and Sunway Medical Centre in Penang , have adopted innovative screening procedures as part of their commitment to advancing cardiovascular health in the country .
BTMC has initiated the first Inclisiran ® treatment in the country , offering hope to patients with challenging high LDL-Cholesterol cases . Dr . Yew Kuan Leong , Consultant Cardiologist at BTMC , stresses the importance of early cardiac screening and appropriate prevention in the fight against heart disease . “ Elevated LDL- Cholesterol levels is a major risk factor for heart disease and can remain high despite adequate oral cholesterol-lowering drugs . This places them at higher risk of cardiovascular events . To combat this , the use of cutting-edge therapies like PCSK9 inhibitors and siRNA-based treatments is crucial ,” says Dr . Yew .
CVSKL , a dedicated centre of excellence for cardiovascular care , is the first centre in Southeast Asia to introduce the revolutionary Revolution Apex CT scan . This lightning-fast scanner captures detailed images in a single heartbeat , utilising advanced technology to produce high-resolution images with the lowest radiation dose . “ Early detection allows for early intervention , and thus , a better outcome . The Complex High-Risk Percutaneous Coronary Interventions Procedure ( CHIP ) programme uses highly innovative and advanced technologies to deliver the most precise outcomes ,” says Dr . Al Fazir Omar , Consultant Cardiologist at CVSKL .
Mahkota Heart Centre , Melaka ’ s leading provider of comprehensive cardiac care , offers regular community screenings through the MyHeart programme , launched in 2021 . “ For symptomatic individuals , we provide one-stop CT scan and echo treadmill packages , cardiologist diagnosis , and treatment ,” says Dr . Ang Eng Lip , Senior Cardiologist at Mahkota Medical Centre . A key standout feature is their Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory , located in the Operation Theatre Complex , ensuring a sterile environment , and reducing the risk of infection .
Sunway Medical Centre Penang offers a one-stop centre for heart screening , where patients can conveniently undergo all necessary tests with confidence , under the guidance of their team of dedicated professionals . “ We believe actively involving patients in their own well-being plays an important role in ensuring good long-term cardiovascular health . Creating public awareness , promoting health consciousness and good screening programmes will empower patients to take charge of their own health , which may eventually translate into better compliance on medical care ,” says Dr . Khaw Chee Sin , Consultant Physician & Interventional Cardiologist at Sunway Medical Centre Penang .
With a commitment to cutting-edge medical science , Malaysian healthcare providers employ advanced technologies and therapies to combat heart disease . Malaysia ’ s distinctive feature lies in its dedication to early detection and intervention , ensuring better patient outcomes .
For more information on Malaysia Healthcare and its services , please visit https :// malaysiahealthcare . org . my or visit our social feeds at : www . facebook . com / MHTCMalaysia or at LinkedIn ( Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council ).
Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre in Klang Cardiac Vascular Sentral Kuala Lumpur Mahkota Medical Centre in Melaka Sunway Medical Centre in Penang
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