IJN expands risk reduction clinic amid rising cardiovascular disease threats

 

INSTITUT Jantung Negara (IJN) has announced the first-of-its-kind innovative Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Clinic (CRRC) following a visit by Health Ministry (MOH) officials who reaffirmed their confidence in IJN as the country’s leading authority in heart care.

This endorsement underscores IJN’s pivotal role in tackling the challenges posed by Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD).

In Malaysia, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as ASCVD account for 71% of premature deaths, with ASCVD alone responsible for 54% of NCD-related fatalities.

Worryingly, Malaysia has the highest one-year mortality rate for STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) in the Asia Pacific region, with a rate of 17.9%.

STEMI is a type of heart attack characterised by a complete blockage of a coronary artery, which is considered more severe and poses a greater risk of serious complications and deaths.

Furthermore, a comprehensive study conducted in the United States, and published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, reveals that patients who suffer from Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) are at a significantly higher risk of recurrent cardiovascular events.

Specifically, these patients face a 6-fold higher risk of experiencing another cardiovascular event within a year post-discharge.

This alarming statistic underscores the critical need for improved cardiovascular care and prevention strategies within the country.

The establishment of IJN’s innovative CRRC reinforces IJN’s status as a leader in cardiovascular care, research, and education. By broadening the CRRC’s reach, IJN aims to deliver specialised care to more patients while revolutionising cardiovascular healthcare across the nation.

Speaking at the launch, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the IJN Grand Round aligns with MOH’s National Strategic Plan for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) 2016–2025.

“The ministry hopes for more initiatives like this in the near future, as such efforts foster innovative solutions through comprehensive care models, which can further improve health literacy, health outcomes, and the well-being of our ‘rakyat’ in this Madani government,” he added.

Meanwhile, IJN CEO Datuk Dr Aizai Azan Abdul Rahim said over the years, IJN had not only treated millions of patients but also spearheaded numerous groundbreaking procedures, and these endeavours are aimed at combating cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Malaysia.

“IJN has also established robust infrastructure and comprehensive manpower training programs to support its growth and ensure the highest standards of healthcare delivery, especially in CRRC,” he said.

“Our efforts, driven by IJN’s mission to remain at the forefront of heart care for Malaysians, ensure that every patient receives world-class treatment and that the institution continues to set new standards in heart health.

“We stand ready to combine our efforts in cardiovascular risk reduction with that of the ministry’s. With IJN’s innovative first of its kind CRRC combined with MOH’s own depth and breadth across the Nation we will be able to help more Malaysians live longer and healthier lives.”

Since its establishment two years ago, the CRRC has benefited nearly 600 patients, significantly improving their quality of life and health outcomes. - Focus Malassia