Perak:The Ministry of Health (MOH) underscored the significance of early detection and prompt treatment in managing heart disease, particularly acute heart attacks, to minimize complications and mortality.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Health Deputy Director-General (Medical) Datuk Dr. Mohd Azman Yacob revealed that ischaemic heart disease remained the top cause of death in Malaysia in 2024. He emphasized the need for awareness around prevention, early detection, immediate treatment, and ongoing care.

Dr. Mohd Azman highlighted the World Heart Federation's theme for the year, 'Don't Miss A Beat,' which serves as a reminder that the signs of heart disease can often be overlooked or detected too late. The campaign aims to focus on recognizing heart disease signs, maintaining heart health through risk factor management, and encouraging action from health policymakers.

During the Perak state-level World Heart Day 2026 celebration and the launch of the Perak Primary PCI STEMI Network Kinta District Primary Care Chapter at Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun (HRPB), Dr. Mohd Azman noted that individuals who appear healthy could still have risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

He further explained that acute ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) is a severe form of heart attack that requires urgent intervention. The principle 'Time is Myocardium' emphasizes the need for quick treatment to prevent heart muscle damage, with acute STEMI management relying on an organized, swift, and integrated healthcare network.

The Perak Primary PCI STEMI Network, initiated in July 2025, links several hospitals with the HRPB Cardiology Department to ensure rapid diagnosis and treatment for acute STEMI patients. In July 2026, health clinics in the Kinta district were integrated into the network, facilitating direct transfer of patients to HRPB's Invasive Cardiac Laboratory after specialist consultation.

The 2026 Perak World Heart Day event also provided free health screenings and echocardiogram checks for civil servants at the Women, Children, and Cardiology Complex. Additionally, the Perak Cardio Update 2026 brought together over 200 healthcare practitioners to exchange knowledge, clinical guidelines, and best practices in cardiovascular care.