The Ivorian Society of Cardiology (SICARD) has called for strengthened prevention and early screening of cardiovascular diseases on the occasion of World Heart Day, celebrated on September 29, 2026, in Anyama. SICARD President Adoubi Kassi Anicet emphasized the need for early detection, education, and treatment close to patients to prevent complications. He cited hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and unbalanced diet as known risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
According to Adoubi, late screening remains a challenge, with many people unaware of their health status until complications such as stroke, heart attack, or heart failure occur. To address this, SICARD has conducted or supported screening activities in various settings, including urban, rural, student, and professional environments. These activities involve measuring blood pressure, checking blood glucose, weight, and identifying risk factors.
SICARD has also contributed to the continuous training of healthcare professionals on hypertension, heart failure, coronary diseases, and rhythm disorders. Additionally, the society has participated in developing national guidelines for fighting hypertension. Representing the Minister of Health, Inspector General of Health Dr. Bernard Kpaho noted that World Heart Day aims to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases, their risk factors, and prevention methods.
Dr. Kpaho highlighted Côte d'Ivoire's efforts to strengthen the skills of healthcare professionals in 76 health districts and the availability of nine mobile polyvalent units for early screening and care in rural areas. The country has also integrated hypertension and diabetes into the Universal Health Coverage (CMU). He announced the upcoming opening of a second cardiology institute in Bouaké.
Despite progress, Dr. Kpaho identified several challenges, including conducting a second national STEP survey, creating pedestrian paths and bike lanes, and effectively enforcing smoking ban measures in public places. He encouraged populations to adopt healthy behaviors, such as balanced diets, reduced salt consumption, quitting smoking, regular physical activity, and monitoring blood pressure, blood glucose, weight, and cholesterol levels.
Ambroise Ané, representing the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized that this year's theme, "Use Your Heart to Act," calls for action beyond awareness. He noted that cardiovascular diseases continue to cause premature deaths worldwide and account for a significant portion of the burden of non-communicable diseases in Côte d'Ivoire. These diseases are often referred to as "silent killers" due to their asymptomatic progression.
The Ivorian Society of Cardiology and health authorities continue to work towards reducing the impact of cardiovascular diseases through education, early screening, and treatment. The government has made efforts to integrate cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment into the healthcare system, but challenges persist. Raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles are crucial steps towards mitigating the effects of these diseases.
Key points
- Côte d'Ivoire's cardiologists are calling for strengthened prevention and early screening of cardiovascular diseases.
- The country has made efforts to integrate hypertension and diabetes into the Universal Health Coverage (CMU).
- The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging action beyond awareness to address the burden of cardiovascular diseases.
