Microvascular dysfunction: a silent witness to cardiovascular risk

---

Extract from the article: At the 2nd National Scientific Congress of the Society of Cardiology in Togo (SOCART), held on June 12 and 13, Prof. Komlavi Yayehd, Associate Professor of Cardiology at the University of Lomé, spoke to the audience about “Microvascular dysfunction:

---

At the 2nd National Scientific Congress of the Society of Cardiology in Togo (SOCART), held on June 12 and 13, Prof. Komlavi Yayehd, Associate Professor of Cardiology at the University of Lomé, spoke to the audience about “Microvascular dysfunction: a silent witness to cardiovascular risk”.

The cardiologist explained that this pathology, unknown to the general public, is now emerging as a key factor in the onset of cardiovascular disease. Affecting small blood vessels, this disorder can precede many major cardiac pathologies, often without obvious symptoms. Microvascular dysfunction, explains Prof. Ag. Yayehd, "refers to an alteration in the function of small blood vessels, such as arterioles, capillaries and venules. This dysfunction manifests itself as an inability to maintain adequate tissue perfusion, resulting in reduced blood flow to the heart".

Consequences and challenges for public health

Prof. Ag. Yayehd points out that undiagnosed microvascular dysfunction can lead to progressive deterioration of cardiac function, repeated hospitalizations, reduced quality of life, and sometimes even inevitable mortality. It therefore represents a silent burden for the Togolese healthcare system.

"Although often asymptomatic, this pathology is a precursor of serious consequences such as heart failure. Hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking and a sedentary lifestyle are major risk factors contributing to the development of this pathology", says the specialist.

Microvascular dysfunction is often under-diagnosed in Togo, due to the scarcity of advanced diagnostic techniques, the limited availability of specialized equipment and a lack of awareness of this pathology, notes Pr Komlavi Yayehd. He also points out that the pathology is poorly taught and rarely suspected, even by health professionals.

Increased awareness, a matter of urgency

Prof. Ag. Yayehd stresses the need for increased awareness and ongoing training for cardiologists. This will enable them to better understand and diagnose microvascular dysfunctions. He also calls for improved medical infrastructures and access to advanced diagnostic technologies for optimal patient care.

Management of microvascular dysfunction in Togo is based on "controlling risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Drug treatments are used to improve vascular function and relieve symptoms. It's important to adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity," recommends the cardiologist.

To improve clinical outcomes, it is essential to invest in training healthcare professionals, improving medical infrastructures and providing access to advanced diagnostic technologies.

Source : ATOP