MONTREAL, July 22,
2024 /CNW/ - "I saw 3 cardiology-related physicians,
two respirologists, several ER physicians, a GP, and another
cardiologist over the course of many years before finally receiving
a diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH). PH was never on their
radars as a potential diagnosis, and it should have
been," shares a patient advocate living with pulmonary
arterial hypertension (PAH). This disturbing delay in diagnosis is
just one of the many critical issues highlighted in the new report
"A Canadian Initiative: Exploring Adult Pulmonary
Hypertension." The report offers important insights into PH,
aiming to be a vital resource for healthcare professionals,
industry stakeholders, patients, and the broader public and it
is available for download at:
https://chroniclungdiseases.com/en/resources/pulmonary-hypertension/
RESPIPLUS, in collaboration with the Pulmonary Hypertension
Association Canada, the Canadian Thoracic Society, and the Family
Physician Airways Group of Canada,
has convened a panel of key opinion leaders, scientific experts and
patients to develop this investigation.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Canada
PH is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by
elevated pressure in the pulmonary arteries, leading to increased
workload on the right side of the heart. It can stem from various
underlying causes, including idiopathic pulmonary arterial
hypertension, rheumatological diseases, liver diseases, left heart
diseases, lung diseases, and chronic thromboembolic disease.
Thousands of Canadians are affected by PH, and the journey to
diagnosis can be long and challenging. This delay can drastically
impact the quality of life and health outcomes for those affected.
This new investigation provides a deep dive into these issues,
supported by expert interviews, survey data, and patient
testimonials, emphasizing the urgent need for improved awareness
and diagnostic processes.
The survey and expert interviews for this investigation revealed
several significant care gaps:
- Diagnostic delays and under recognition
- Long wait times for referral to specialists
- Inadequate access to specialized PH centers (often due to
distance)
Dr. Lisa Mielniczuk,
cardiologist, had compelling insights about the access to PH
clinics: "It's very difficult for our patients in the northern
parts of Canada to come. Some of
them are very sick. The thought of having to drive 8-10 hours to
come and see us, it's just too hard for them physically.
Alternatively, getting on a plane is also not easy for them,
particularly if they're on oxygen. It's definitely proportional to
the level of disability or illness of the patient."
This report calls on industry, healthcare professionals,
policymakers, and the public to address critical issues in
Pulmonary Hypertension in Canada.
It recommends evidence-based strategies like medical therapies,
lifestyle changes, and supportive care. Key areas for improvement
include timely diagnosis, access to specialized care, and
education. The report emphasizes patient empowerment through
accessible information on their condition, treatment options, and
lifestyle adjustments.
About RESPIPLUS
Respiplus, a Canadian non-profit with 20 years of experience,
develops high-quality training programs for chronic respiratory
diseases. Their mission is to improve diagnosis, enhance treatment
strategies, and advance respiratory health outcomes.
www.respiplus.com
SOURCE RESPIPLUS