LAHORE: With sudden heart attacks increasingly affecting young Pakistanis, a new generation of cardiologists is turning to Artificial Intelligence (AI) to strengthen early detection and improve the treatment of cardiovascular disease. At the “Shark Tank Cardiology” session of the Pakistan Hypertension League (PHL) conference, they emphasized: “Our goal is to prevent premature deaths by using AI to identify heart problems before they turn fatal and to improve treatment outcomes for patients already living with cardiovascular conditions.”
Experts at the event highlighted that AI is transforming global healthcare, particularly cardiology, by revolutionizing how diseases are diagnosed and managed. “The AI-driven imaging, predictive algorithms and data analysis tools are helping doctors detect heart problems at an earlier stage, personalise treatments, and reduce mortality,” they said. They further stressed that if Pakistan invests in similar technologies, it can bridge critical healthcare gaps, reduce diagnostic delays, and provide lifesaving care to millions of people. During the event, three young cardiologists won research grants of Rs 100,000, Rs 75,000, and Rs 50,000 under the Pharmevo Research Forum (PRF).
Among the winners, Dr. Aamir Shahbaz of Shaikh Zaid Hospital, Lahore, secured first place for his AI-assisted study comparing ticagrelor and high-dose clopidogrel in heart attack patients undergoing stent procedures. His findings could guide more effective and affordable treatment for South Asians. Second place went to Dr. Deepa Ahuja of SICVD Larkana, whose research on ultrasound-guided cannulation versus conventional palpation showed how AI can enhance imaging precision and improve patient safety. Third prize was awarded to Dr. Amina Jawed Malik of Faisal Masood Teaching Hospital, Sargodha, for applying AI in echocardiography to uncover hidden heart dysfunction in hypertensive patients, paving the way for earlier intervention.
Judges praised the researchers for applying modern technology to practical problems. They also commended the Pharmevo Research Forum for fostering a research-driven culture in healthcare rather than focusing solely on drug promotion.
Young Pakistani Cardiologists Harness AI to Tackle Rising Heart Disease Cases
