Volga's First Arrhythmology Forum Unites 450 Specialists to Combat Heart Disease

The first Volga Federal District Arrhythmology Forum has wrapped up in Nizhny Novgorod. Organised by the regional health ministry and local medical bodies, the event brought together over 450 specialists to tackle cardiovascular diseases and sudden cardiac death. Discussions ranged from clinical treatments to the role of artificial intelligence in modern cardiology.

The two-day forum featured sessions on clinical and interventional arrhythmology, sports cardiology, and digital innovations in medicine. Attendees took part in hands-on workshops using 3D models and high-tech simulators to refine their skills in diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders.

More than 250 professionals joined in person, while another 200 participated online. The event highlighted the region's progress in cardiac care, including over 1,600 arrhythmia surgeries performed locally—above the national average for device implants. Alongside the forum, Nizhny Novgorod unveiled new healthcare facilities. These included an outpatient monitoring centre and upgraded primary vascular units, part of the broader 'Long and Active Life' national project. The initiative aims to boost life expectancy by 2030 through modernised medical services. This forum follows a wider trend in Russia, where at least 12 regions—such as Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Tatarstan—have hosted similar interdisciplinary events since 2023. Moscow and St. Petersburg, in particular, now run multiple cardiac-focused gatherings each year.

The forum's outcomes will support ongoing efforts to improve cardiac treatment across the Volga region. With expanded facilities and specialised training, local health authorities plan to strengthen early detection and emergency response for heart conditions. The event also reinforced ties between regional and national strategies under Russia's healthcare modernisation drive.