Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) Month sheds light on critical trends and challenges associated with this rare and life-threatening condition. Dr. Prashant Bobhate, a leading pediatric cardiologist and pulmonary hypertension specialist, shares key insights into its demographic impact and treatment needs.
Highlighting the prevalence among adults, Dr. Bobhate notes, “Approximately 60 per cent of our PAH patients are adults, with most being over 18 years of age. This emphasises the importance of early detection, as the condition is often identified only in advanced stages.”
A striking observation from Group 1 PAH cases, including idiopathic and heritable forms, is the gender disparity. Dr. Bobhate reveals, “Our data indicates that 80 per cent of Group 1 PAH cases are female. This trend calls for further research into gender-specific causes and treatment responses.”
As part of PAH awareness initiatives, Dr. Bobhate underscores the need for a holistic approach to management. “Effective care involves a multidisciplinary team focused on medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and early interventions to enhance outcomes and quality of life,” he says.
Looking forward, advancements in PAH diagnostics and therapies offer hope for better outcomes. “Rapid developments in diagnostic tools and treatments pave the way for earlier intervention, which could significantly improve survival rates and disease management,” Dr. Bobhate concludes.
PAH Month continues to serve as a reminder of the need for heightened awareness and research to tackle this challenging condition effectively.