Cardiovascular Disease: A Silent Killer Globally
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) has emerged as a significant threat worldwide, with the World Health Organization estimating 17-18 million deaths annually. This number represents one-third of all global deaths, underscoring the urgency and importance of addressing this medical issue. Furthermore, heart disease continues to affect younger populations at an alarming rate due to risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and a high-stress lifestyle.
Bumrungrad International Hospital has taken significant steps towards combating CVD through its specialized Heart Institute, which serves as a centre of excellence for addressing various forms of heart disease. The hospital’s commitment to staying at the forefront of medical technology and treatment methods ensures that patients receive safe, effective care that helps them regain their quality of life.
Leading in Quaternary Care: Bumrungrad’s Commitment
Bumrungrad International Hospital is proud of its leadership role in quaternary care, the highest level of medical care. As Senior Executive Director of Operations, Mr. Barry Wolfman stated, "Bumrungrad has been dedicated to raising the bar for care over 45 years. Our team of pioneering cardiologists utilizes world-class best practices and cutting-edge technology to deliver high-quality patient outcomes for both Thai and international patients."
The hospital’s achievements in cardiology have been recognized by Newsweek magazine as one of the ‘World’s Best Specialized Hospitals’ in 2026, making Bumrungrad the only hospital in Thailand to achieve this distinction. Additionally, the hospital was recognized as one of the ‘World’s Best Smart Hospitals’ in 2026, reflecting its commitment to leveraging advanced technology to enhance patient care.
Prof. Dr. Koonlawee Nademanee: A Pioneer in Cardiology
One of the key figures behind Bumrungrad Heart Institute’s success is Prof. Dr. Koonlawee Nademanee, a cardiologist and electrophysiologist with over 30 years of experience treating arrhythmias in Thailand and the United States. He was among the first physicians to integrate CardioInsight technique with 3D cardiac mapping for complex arrhythmia treatment.
Prof. Dr. Koonlawee’s research has been published in leading international academic journals, including New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM), JAMA, and Circulation, with over 250 articles under his name. He was also honored as one of the World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientists by Stanford University Ranking 2023.
Early Detection: The Key to Heart Disease Treatment
Prof. Dr. Koonlawee Nademanee emphasized that early diagnosis is crucial in treating heart disease, citing that symptoms often only appear when the condition becomes severe. Bumrungrad employs cutting-edge diagnostic technologies such as photon-counting CT scanning to accurately assess heart function and detect abnormalities.
This technology enables rapid and effective treatment planning, ensuring patients receive timely interventions. Early detection can prevent complications and save lives, making it an essential aspect of Bumrungrad’s comprehensive care approach.
Minimally Invasive Treatment for Rapid Recovery
Bumrungrad International Hospital focuses on minimally invasive treatments that ensure high patient safety, shorten recovery time, and enable patients to return to their normal lives more quickly. Prof. Dr. Koonlawee Nademanee explained, "We provide treatment for all four heart valves using catheter-based techniques without the need for open surgery."
These procedures reduce infection risk, especially in elderly patients or those with complications. The hospital’s state-of-the-art cardiac electrophysiology laboratory is capable of treating complex arrhythmias with cardiac ablation or implantable devices and heart transplant surgery to help patients return to normal life.
Innovation for Critically Ill Patients
Bumrungrad Heart Institute is poised to elevate treatment for severe heart disease cases with comprehensive Mechanical Circulatory Support technology. Prof. Dr. Koonlawee Nademanee stated that the hospital is ready to provide critically ill patients with advanced support through devices such as Left Ventricular Assist Device, ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation), and pVAD (Percutaneous ventricular assist device: Impella).
These innovative technologies improve heart function, reduce risk of death from shock, and increase patient survival rates. The hospital’s multidisciplinary team of specialists selects the most appropriate treatment for each patient, ensuring optimal outcomes.
Conclusion
Cardiovascular disease is a silent killer globally, but Bumrungrad International Hospital remains committed to advancing cardiac care through its specialized Heart Institute. With cutting-edge technology, innovative treatments, and a multidisciplinary team of experts, the hospital delivers world-class treatment that ensures higher survival rates, fewer complications, and better quality of life for patients.
As Bumrungrad continues to invest in precision medicine, genomics, AI tools, and predictive analytics, it solidifies its position as a leader in quaternary care. The ultimate goal is to deliver effective, safe, world-class treatment that ensures optimal patient outcomes.