Cardiovascular Disease in South Asians: Understanding Unique Risk Factors and Health Needs to Promote Decision Making—Conference Proceedings

Cardiovascular diseases are a major health concern worldwide, and South Asians are known to have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases compared to other ethnic groups. This risk is largely attributed to genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors, and comorbidities such as diabetes and dyslipidemia. The first international South Asian Cardiovascular Disease conference was organized, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, including public health researchers, patients, health practitioners, policymakers, and social scientists to discuss the current challenges and future directions in addressing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in this population. Topics of discussion included the epidemiology and pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases in South Asians, the role of genetics and epigenetics, lifestyle modifications, pharmacological interventions, and the use of technology in prevention and management. The need for a holistic approach that addresses the social determinants of health, promotes healthy lifestyles, and provides equitable access to healthcare was highlighted. Overall, the conference provided a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge-sharing to address the significant burden of cardiovascular diseases in South Asians. It underscored the need for continued research and innovation to develop effective strategies that can reduce the incidence and impact of cardiovascular diseases in South Asians, and emphasized the critical need for effective prevention and management strategies that are culturally appropriate and tailored to this population.