Heart disease is a growing health crisis in Bangladesh, with cardiovascular diseases accounting for 17% of all deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The National Heart Foundation Dhaka has emerged as a lifesaving institution, providing state-of-the-art cardiac care, spearheading awareness initiatives, and driving critical research. This guide explores its comprehensive services, programs, and contributions to Bangladesh’s healthcare landscape.
The Role of the National Heart Foundation Dhaka
Established in 1979, the National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh (NHFB) is headquartered in Mirpur, Dhaka. It operates as a nonprofit entity dedicated to improving heart health across the nation. With a vision to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the foundation offers affordable, high-quality care while promoting preventive measures.
Mission and Vision
The foundation focuses on:
- Decreasing the incidence of heart diseases through prevention and early diagnosis.
- Making world-class cardiac treatment accessible to all socioeconomic groups.
- Educating the public on lifestyle changes for heart health.
- Conducting groundbreaking research to develop innovative and cost-effective solutions.
Cutting-Edge Facilities and Services
The National Heart Foundation Dhaka is renowned for its modern infrastructure, advanced medical technology, and specialized services tailored to the unique needs of Bangladeshi patients.
1. Comprehensive Diagnostic Services
Accurate and early diagnosis is critical in treating heart diseases. The foundation offers:
- Echocardiograms: Real-time imaging to assess heart structure and function.
- Electrocardiograms (ECG): Monitoring electrical activity to detect abnormalities.
- Stress Tests: Evaluating heart function under physical exertion.
- Holter Monitoring: Continuous ECG tracking for arrhythmia detection.
2. Specialized Treatment Options
The foundation provides a wide range of treatments, including:
- Coronary Angioplasty and Stenting: Minimally invasive procedures to open blocked arteries.
- Bypass Surgery: Advanced techniques to restore blood flow in severe coronary artery disease cases.
- Valve Replacement Surgery: Treating damaged heart valves with precision.
- Pacemaker Implantation: Addressing arrhythmias through advanced devices.
3. Pediatric Cardiology
Children with congenital heart defects receive specialized care, including surgeries, catheter-based interventions, and comprehensive follow-ups.
4. Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Counseling
To ensure long-term recovery, the foundation emphasizes:
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs: Tailored exercise and therapy plans for post-surgery recovery.
- Diet and Lifestyle Guidance: Preventive measures to avoid recurrence of heart issues.
Promoting Heart Health Awareness
Bangladesh faces significant challenges due to low awareness of cardiovascular health. The foundation’s educational campaigns tackle key issues such as:
- High Blood Pressure (Uccho Roktachap): Offering free screenings and tips to manage hypertension.
- Smoking Cessation (Dhumpan Bondho Korar Upay): Highlighting the risks of tobacco use and offering support programs.
- Healthy Eating Habits (Shushtho Khabar): Encouraging balanced diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
- Regular Check-Ups: Stressing the importance of routine health screenings.
These campaigns are amplified through public workshops, social media platforms, and collaborations with local organizations.
Research and Innovations
The foundation is committed to advancing cardiovascular medicine in Bangladesh. Key research initiatives include:
- Identifying Local Risk Factors: Studies on dietary habits, genetic predispositions, and environmental influences.
- Affordable Solutions: Developing low-cost interventions tailored to resource-limited settings.
- Global Collaborations: Partnering with international institutions for knowledge exchange and innovation.
Why Choose the National Heart Foundation Dhaka?
With decades of experience, the foundation is the trusted choice for cardiac care in Bangladesh. Key advantages include:
- Affordability: Subsidized treatment costs make high-quality care accessible to all.
- Expertise: A team of highly trained cardiologists, surgeons, and specialists ensures optimal outcomes.
- Comprehensive Services: From diagnostics to rehabilitation, patients receive holistic care under one roof.
- Community Focus: Emphasis on prevention and education ensures a lasting impact on public health.
How to Access Services
Patients can easily avail themselves of the foundation’s services through:
- Outpatient Department: Open six days a week for consultations and diagnostics.
- Appointments: Book via their website or helpline.
- Health Camps: Regular free camps for basic screenings and preventive advice.
Real-Life Success Stories
The foundation has touched countless lives, such as:
- Rina Akhter (Mirpur): A hypertensive patient who avoided complications through early intervention.
- Rahim Uddin (Chattogram): Successfully recovered from bypass surgery performed at a fraction of the cost compared to private hospitals.
Key Takeaways
The National Heart Foundation Dhaka is more than a healthcare facility; it is a lifeline for individuals and families combating cardiovascular diseases. Through its unmatched dedication to treatment, education, and research, the foundation has cemented its position as a leader in heart health care in Bangladesh.
If you or a loved one needs cardiac support, don’t hesitate to contact the National Heart Foundation Dhaka. Their compassionate and skilled team is ready to assist you on the journey to better heart health.