Edito September 2026 – World Heart Day 2026 – “Don’t Miss a Beat”

As physicians, our role is critical in the early identification and management of cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes etc. Through appropriate risk stratification, early diagnosis, optimal risk-factor control, and evidence-based cardioprotective therapies, we can prevent cardiovascular events and improve long-term outcomes.
But improving cardiovascular health also means strengthening healthcare systems and building clinical capacity, particularly where access to specialized expertise and advanced diagnostic technologies remains limited.

In 2025, we were proud to support three cardiologists from Djibouti in attending a dedicated one-month training program in transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) at the Institut de Cardiologie d’Abidjan (ICA), Côte d’Ivoire.
This program aimed to strengthen their technical expertise and diagnostic capabilities, ultimately contributing to improved access to advanced cardiovascular care in their home country.

Today, as we celebrate World Heart Day, we are delighted to share their testimonies and reflections following the training.

Their experience is a powerful reminder that cardiovascular health is not only about treating disease. It is also about empowering healthcare professionals, strengthening clinical capabilities, and building sustainable healthcare systems so that more patients can benefit from timely, high-quality cardiovascular care.

Let us remain vigilant, act early, strengthen our health systems, and above all…
Don’t Miss a Beat. 

Happy World Heart Day to all you, dear colleagues.

Dr Thierno Birahim-Gueye

GHU Global Medical Lead cardiometabolic &

Regional medical lead French speaking countries