The 6th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension Advancing Knowledge and Treatment

The 6th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension: Advancing Knowledge and Treatment

The 6th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension (WSPH) was held in Nice, France in 2018, bringing together experts from around the world to discuss the latest advances in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of pulmonary hypertension (PH). PH is a progressive and life-threatening condition that affects the blood vessels in the lungs, causing high blood pressure and leading to heart failure if left untreated. In this article, we will explore the key highlights and takeaways from the 6th WSPH.

Advancing Knowledge and Understanding of PH

The 6th WSPH provided a platform for researchers and clinicians to share their latest findings and insights into the pathophysiology of PH. This included discussions on the role of genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors in the development and progression of PH. There were also presentations on the latest imaging techniques and biomarkers that can be used to diagnose and monitor PH, as well as new approaches to risk stratification and prognosis.

Improving Treatment and Management of PH

One of the main goals of the 6th WSPH was to identify new and effective treatments for PH. This included discussions on the latest pharmacological therapies, such as prostacyclin analogs, endothelin receptor antagonists, and phosphodiesterase inhibitors. There were also presentations on the use of combination therapies and novel drug delivery systems to improve treatment outcomes.

In addition to pharmacological therapies, the 6th WSPH also highlighted the importance of non-pharmacological interventions in the management of PH. This included discussions on the role of exercise training, pulmonary rehabilitation, and oxygen therapy in improving quality of life and reducing hospitalizations in patients with PH.

Collaboration and Networking

The 6th WSPH provided a unique opportunity for researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates to come together and share their experiences and knowledge. This included discussions on the importance of patient-centered care and the need for collaboration and networking across different disciplines and regions to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and management of PH.

Overall, the 6th WSPH was a valuable forum for advancing knowledge and understanding of PH and identifying new and effective treatments for this life-threatening condition. It highlighted the importance of collaboration and networking across different disciplines and regions to improve patient outcomes and ultimately, find a cure for PH.