Emphasizing the role of cardiothoracic surgeons within the global health context: a call to action

Abstract

Introduction: Worldwide, cardiovascular thoracic diseases (ischemic heart diseases) are the second most common global cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs. Globally, 17 million lives are lost annually, and 80% occur in LMICs as a result of CVD, and 75% of the world lacks access to cardiac surgery with some regions (Sub-Saharan Africa) having 0.07 pediatric cardiac surgeons and 0.12 adult cardiac surgeons per million population. This is a global cause for concern and needs immediate attention. Method: Through literature review, we elaborate on key points such as the global burden of cardiothoracic surgical diseases, the current status of cardiothoracic surgical care around the world, and the inherent benefits of building a strong cardiothoracic surgical care capability for health systems globally. Search engines used were: PUBMED, SCOPUS, MEDLINE, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. Results: Cardiothoracic diseases make up an important part of the global health burden of diseases as cardiothoracic care can be linked to over 15 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, giving the tremendous part played by cardiothoracic surgeons in the Health System Surgical Initiatives. Conclusion: We, therefore, recommend policymakers and global health actors: increase the involvement of cardiothoracic surgeons within the global health systems and dialogues; integrate and enforce cardiothoracic surgical care within the global surgery movement; and most importantly promote the training and education of cardiothoracic surgeons in LMICs in the field of global public health and as well involve cardiothoracic surgeons in the national surgical system strengthening process.