The pulse of innovation and dedication to cardiovascular health resonated through the corridors of the Pennsylvania Convention Center during the inaugural session of the 2023 Scientific Sessions, hosted by the American Heart Association (the Association). As the world’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to creating healthier lives for all, the Association set the stage for a dynamic exchange of knowledge, breakthroughs, and collaborative efforts in the pursuit of a healthier future.
Joseph C. Wu, MD, PHD, FAHA, the American Heart Association’s distinguished volunteer president, delivered a compelling and motivating address to inaugurate the event. Dr. Wu’s words echoed a profound commitment to the mission of the Association, emphasizing the crucial role of science and collaboration in advancing cardiovascular health worldwide. His opening remarks set the tone for a conference dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in the field.
Entrancing the audience as the theme song of Rocky played, Dr. Amit Khera, a renowned physician and researcher leading the Association’s Committee on Scientific Sessions Programming, pumped up the crowd for an extraordinary experience. Specializing in cardiac risk assessment and risk factor modifications at UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dr. Khera ensured an engaging atmosphere that will focus on discussion and cross-disciplinary programming – —all with an eye to maximizing meaningful, in-person interaction. Attendees were captivated with a pre-produced backstage tour video, providing a sneak peek into the excitement awaiting them at this year’s Scientific Sessions.
The opening session wrapped up with a presentation on the much-anticipated topic: “Obesity – Novel Therapeutics and Implications for Population Health.” With a forecast indicating that over half the global population will grapple with obesity by 2035, the imperative to address obesity in tandem with cardiovascular disease treatment took center stage. Facilitated by audience engagement, this interactive session delved into the nuanced details of study results, placing a particular emphasis on interpreting these findings through the lenses of equity and feasibility.
The 2023 Scientific Sessions will continue through Monday, November 13th. A total of 27 late-breaking clinical trials are grouped thematically across eight late-breaking science (LBS) sessions. In all, this year’s meeting will have a total of 726 sessions, including over 200 invited sessions and over 4,000 abstracts. As a friendly reminder, Saturday’s dress code is themed around wearing red, while attendees on Monday are encouraged to sport sneakers.
The opening session of the 2023 AHA Scientific Sessions was not just a prelude; it was a symphony of passion, knowledge, and commitment that revealed a world where science meets compassion, and innovation intersects with dedication. With Dr. Joseph C. Wu’s words echoing in the hearts of attendees, the Scientific Sessions embarked on a journey that promised to redefine the landscape of cardiovascular health, one breakthrough at a time.