Novo Nordisk partners with Saudi Heart Association to improve cardiovascular health in Saudi Arabia
The collaboration seeks to enhance patient outcomes nationwide by equipping healthcare professionals with vital knowledge and resources. This effort aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to address the clinical and economic challenges posed by cardiovascular disease.
Cardiovascular diseases present a significant public health challenge in Saudi Arabia, with rising rates of related major risk factors, including obesity, diabetes, and inflammation. Besides traditional risk factors, systemic low-grade inflammation is nowadays recognized as a driving force of atherosclerotic disease progression and plaque destabilization. In 2016, approximately 201,300 Saudi nationals were affected by cardiovascular diseases, accounting for over 45% of fatalities in the country. This partnership is dedicated to tackling these pressing issues by fostering effective management strategies and enhancing clinical practices.
Novo Nordisk and SHA are committed to establishing a comprehensive framework for early intervention, significantly improving the quality of care provided to patients. The partnership will leverage diverse communication channels to reach healthcare providers, delivering thorough education on the latest advancements in cardiovascular care.
"At Novo Nordisk, we understand the critical importance of collaboration in advancing cardio care," said Melvin D'Souza, General Manager at Novo Nordisk Saudi Arabia. "Our partnership with the Saudi Heart Association marks a proactive step toward enhancing cardiovascular health practices and ultimately improving patient outcomes across the Kingdom."
"We are thrilled about this collaboration with Novo Nordisk and its potential impact," stated Dr. Waleed AlHabeeb, President of the Saudi Heart Association. "By working together, we can empower healthcare providers with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively manage cardiovascular patients, contributing to a healthier future for our communities."
About Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat serious chronic diseases built upon our heritage in diabetes. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 76,300 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries. For more information, visit novonordisk.com, Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and YouTube.
About Saudi Heart Association
Saudi Heart Association (SHA) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of cardiology in Saudi Arabia. Founded in 1987, it serves as a scientific reference for local bodies and works to disseminate knowledge and best practices in cardiovascular health. SHA is involved in various activities, including research, training, and public awareness campaigns, and hosts an annual conference.bb
Contacts for further information
Media:
Julie Andersen
Public Affairs Specialist
LJRT@novonordisk.com
Islam Tawfik
Sr. Medical Manager
IZQT@novonordisk.com
References
Tash, Adel Abdulkader and Al-Bawardy, Rasha Fahad (2023) "Cardiovascular Disease in Saudi Arabia: facts and the way forward," Journal of the Saudi Heart Association: Vol. 35: Iss. 2, Article 6. Available at: https://doi.org/10.37616/2212-5043.1336
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