AAPI hosts first Indo-US scientific convention in Hyderabad

The convention brought together nearly 350 physician delegates from the United States and India. / Courtesy Photo

The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) held its first-ever Indo-US Scientific Convention on Cardiac Resuscitation at the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology (AIG) in Hyderabad, Telangana on Jan.18. 

The convention brought together nearly 350 physician delegates from the United States and India, focusing on critical topics such as sudden cardiac death, advancements in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the growing Indo-US collaboration in CPR techniques.

The event attracted leading medical professionals, industry leaders, and policymakers, underscoring the significance of addressing cardiovascular diseases, which continue to have a profound impact on people of Indian origin.

Speakers at the event. / Courtesy Photo

Heart disease and South Asians

Highlighting the urgency of tackling cardiovascular diseases, AAPI president Dr. Satheesh Kathula said, “Heart disease is the number one global public health problem. South Asians are at a four-times greater risk of heart disease than their Western counterparts and have a greater chance of having a heart attack before 50 years of age. Heart attacks strike South Asian men and women at younger ages, and as a result, both morbidity and mortality are higher among them compared to any other ethnic group. They tend to develop heart disease ten years earlier than other groups.”

Citing studies, Dr. Kathula pointed out that nearly one in three South Asians may die from heart disease before the age of 65. He emphasized common risk factors such as smoking, a diet high in sugar, salt, refined grains, and fat, as well as the prevalence of insulin resistance leading to diabetes, which contributes to heart-related complications. Stress, lack of exercise, and genetic predisposition were also highlighted as significant contributors to heart disease.

Educational initiatives and awareness

Dr. Kathula stressed AAPI’s commitment to medical education and awareness programs, stating, “The essence of AAPI is education. That translates into numerous medical education initiatives by world academicians from the United States, offering unique opportunities for local medical staff and healthcare professionals to advance their learning and provide the best possible care for the people of India.”

He added that AAPI’s efforts in disease prevention and cardiovascular awareness were central to their mission. “It was truly an enriching experience to be present in person, meeting with young women, and being part of this life-saving mission,” he said.

Following the lectures, interactive workshops on adult and pediatric cardiac resuscitation were conducted, providing participants with hands-on training.. / Courtesy Photo

Expert sessions and hands-on training

The convention featured sessions by world-renowned experts, covering a range of topics related to cardiac resuscitation. Following the lectures, interactive workshops on adult and pediatric cardiac resuscitation were conducted, providing participants with hands-on training.

U.S. Consul General in Hyderabad, Jennifer Larson, served as the chief guest and lauded the contributions of Indian physicians in the U.S. healthcare system. Dr. Nageshwar Reddy, chief of AIG, also addressed the gathering, commending AAPI’s efforts in promoting cardiovascular health awareness.

Collaborations and acknowledgments

AAPI collaborated with several organizations, including the American Heart Association, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Indian Medical Association, and Pedi Star, to make the event a success. The association expressed gratitude to these partners for their support.

Acknowledging the contributions of key participants, AAPI extended thanks to Dr. Vemuri Murthy, Dr. Dwarakanatha Reddy, Dr. Ranga Reddy, Dr. Naveen Nanda, Dr. Pooja Patel, Dr. D.P. Suresh, Dr. Nageshwar Reddy, Dr. Srinivas Ramaka, and several others for their dedication to the convention’s success.

AAPI remains hopeful that the scientific convention will serve as a platform for raising awareness and educating healthcare professionals, first responders, and community leaders. “In our quest to fulfill the mission of AAPI, we are proud to share best practices and experiences from leading experts in the world and develop actionable plans and projects that enable access to affordable and quality healthcare for all people,” Dr. Kathula said.