Vikas Desai is Clinical and Interventional Cardiologist in Metro West are of Boston for close to 25 years. He has an academic affiliation with Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Desai besides doing clinical work is also actively involved in cardiovascular research in affiliation with Brigham and Womens Hospital. Currently, he also serves as Chair of IRB at Metrowest Medical Center in Framingham which is responsible for oversight of clinical research done at many Tenet health care hospitals nationwide. He sits on board of trustees for Indian Medical Associating of New England. He also donated his time in medical camps in India.
He graduated from Govt. Medical College in Surat, India and has advanced training in Internal Medicine as well as Cardiology from Tufts University affiliate program at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Boston. He is a fellow of Society of Cardiology Angiography and Interventions.
He talked to Lokvani about this field and gave some tips for heart health.
What is interventional cardiology?
It is one of the sub specialties of Cardiology where one percutaneously treats vascular blockages by various means as well as deliver definitive therapy of many structural and valvular heart diseases.
What motivated you to specialize in this?
Both my parents had cardiac events in their 50's. One of my mentors Dr. Krishna Ramaswamy, during my residency inspired and motivated me to peruse the field. Primary angioplasty for acute heart attacks was in it's infancy and first trial of coronary stents were coming out. It was a very exciting time; I felt that I could "help" and make meaningful difference in lives of many.
What advise do you have for heart health for Indian Americans?
Heart health is like a marathon and not a sprint. Healthy diet, regular exercise routine with stress management and moderation in general with a long-term commitment is the key. Prevention is much better than treating a chronic disease.
You mentioned that more surgeries and procedures are needed in India compared with USA. What is the reason for this ?
Indian populous in US in general is more aware about their health and "take better care" by eating healthy, be physically more active and follow medical advice. In India, with advances in technology, people are less active. Migration from villages to cities has resulted in less walking, less bicycling etc. There is less physical labor. Yet there is increased mental stress and pollution. Diet habits in India have changed for the worse that in conjunction with physical inactivity has resulted in higher incidence of diabetes and high cholesterol, both of which are known cardiovascular risk factors. Incidence of smoking in US has gone down significantly after surgeon generals warning while it is on rise in India.
What can be done in India to improve the situation?
We need public policies to promote healthy life style. It is important to place special emphasis starting education at a very young age in schools. Better education about treatment of modifiable risk factors is crucial.
Are there special resources for people with Cardiac issues that you would recommend?
American Heart Association has a wonderful web site for self education. We need a good book on Heart Healthy Indian Cooking.
Any advice to medical students on why they should choose Interventional Cardiology?
Though very stressful at times, it is very rewarding and gratifying to see very sick patients do well because of what you did. I have been at it for 24 years and I look forward to going to work every day because I still love what I do. Choose this field if you are willing to put in long hours, wake up in middle of night for emergencies, keep your cool and be compassionate. Beyond monetary gains, your biggest reward will be the gratitude from the patients and their families and nurturing meaningful and long term relationships. However do not do it for the money!
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