AAPI's First Ever Indo-US Scientific Convention on Cardiac Resuscitation Held In Hyderabad

Ajay Ghosh

Media Coordinator, AAPI

The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) organized its first-ever Indo-US Scientific Convention on January 18, 2025, at the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology (AIG) in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The event focused on critical topics such as sudden cardiac death, advancements in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the growing Indo-US collaboration in CPR techniques.

Attended by nearly 350 Physician delegates from the United States and India, the Indo-US Scientific Convention, with participation from leading medical professionals, thought leaders, heads of several health industry sectors, and policy-makers, the convention assumes importance, especially in the context of reports of how cardiovascular diseases impact the lives of people of Indian origin.

According to Satheesh Kathula, MD, FACP, DipABLM, President, AAPI, “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. ”

Pointing to studies, Dr. Kathula said that almost one in three in this group may die from heart disease before 65 years of age. In India, heart disease remains the number one cause of death. Common risk factors are smoking and a diet high in sugar, salt, refined grains, and fat. A large number of South Asians appear to have “insulin resistance”, a condition in which the body does not utilize insulin efficiently, resulting in Diabetes, which leads to a significant number of heart-related problems. Lack of adequate exercise, stress, and genetic predisposition are also contributing factors.

“The essence of AAPI is education,” said Dr. Kathula. “That translates into numerous Medical Education initiatives programs by world academicians from the United States, offering unique opportunities for local medical staff and healthcare professionals to advance leanings and provide the best possible care for the people of India. We at AAPI, in keeping with our efforts and initiatives to educate, create awareness, and provide support on disease prevention, are happy to be part of the Cardiovascular Awareness Program. It was truly an enriching experience to be present in person and meeting with the young women and be part of this life-saving mission.”

AAPI is hopeful that the scientific convention will serve as a critical means to creating awareness and educating healthcare professionals, First Responders, and community leaders in helping save lives from the deadly cardiovascular disease, especially among the people of Indian origin. Efforts to raise awareness of heart disease and promote “Healthy Heart” lifestyles are essential.

The speakers at the convention were world-renowned experts, and the sessions were both highly relevant and engaging. Following the lectures, interactive workshops on adult and pediatric cardiac resuscitation took place, allowing for hands-on learning.

The Honorable Consul General of the U.S. in Hyderabad, Jennifer Larson, was the chief guest and spoke highly of the contributions of Indian physicians in the U.S. and their vital role in the American healthcare system. Dr. Nageshwar Reddy, chief of AIG, addressed the audience, praising AAPI’s efforts.

Collaborating partners for the event included the American Heart Association, Asian Institute of Gastroenterology, Indian Medical Association, and Pedi Star. We extend our heartfelt thanks to them for their involvement in making the event a grand success.

The event would not have been possible without the active collaboration and participation of 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 significant contributions to the success of the convention.

“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. To help accomplish this mission, we are excited to be here in Hyderabad and be part of the Indo-US Scientific Convention,” For more information and ways to support AAPI's noble initiatives, please visit www.aapiusa.org/