PULSE Issue 47 | July 2026
The American College of Cardiology Annual Scientific Session (ACC 2026), held in New Orleans from 28–30 March, brought together leading cardiovascular clinicians, researchers, and educators to spotlight the latest advances in heart care. As one of the field’s most influential global platforms, ACC continues to serve as a key platform for presenting new research, shaping clinical practice, and fostering international collaboration.
This year, the National University Heart Centre, Singapore (NUHCS) made a strong presence, contributing actively across scientific, academic, and leadership arenas, while engaging with global peers to discuss on evolving cardiovascular care.
Prof Tan Huay Cheem, Senior Advisor, NUHCS, led a session addressing latest updates in ACC guidelines, providing insights on translating emerging evidence into real-world clinical takeaways. He explored key areas of evolving practice, including the nuanced role of beta blockers – particularly on the left ventricular ejection fraction, and the potential de-escalation of long-term therapy in selected patients. The session also spotlighted the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cardiology, with forward-looking insights on how AI could enhance clinical decision-making in risk stratification and enable more personalised cardiovascular care.
American College of Cardiology (ACC): A non-profit medical society, dedicated to enhance the lives of cardiovascular patients through continuous improvements in patient-centered care, education, research and advocacy. Consisting of a diverse group of cardiology professionals including cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, fellows, residents, nurses, and researchers, this organisation offers a range of educational and research opportunities for advancements in the field of cardiovascular health across the globe.
A major highlight was the recognition of Adj Prof Poh Kian Keong, Director of Research and Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology, NUHCS, who was awarded the ACC Navin C. Nanda International Service Award for 2026, for his longstanding and outstanding contributions to the global cardiology community. Notably, he is the first Singaporean cardiologist to have received a distinguished ACC award, reflecting both individual excellence and NUHCS’ growing influence on the international stage.
Beyond his milestone achievement, Adj Prof Poh remained a prominent role throughout the conference. Serving as a Poster Moderator on lipoprotein(a)1, he shared expert perspectives on this increasingly significant cardiovascular risk factor and sparked deeper scientific discussion. He also co-chaired a session connecting young attendees and cardiologists, promoting research and scientific development, while nurturing the next generation of cardiovascular leaders to broaden academic and professional impact globally.
Adj A/Prof William Kong, Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology, NUHCS, and American College of Cardiology Chapter Governor for Singapore, also attended the ACC 2026 Convocation alongside Adj Prof Poh, celebrating new Fellows (FACC) and Masters (MACC), honouring the award recipients and incoming leadership in the field of cardiovascular medicine.
NUHCS’ academic strength was further highlighted through abstract presentations by junior doctors. Dr Jamie Ho, Junior Resident, National University Health System (NUHS), presented findings on the use of GLP-1 agonists2 following acute myocardial infarction3, demonstrating their potential to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events. Meanwhile, Dr David Ho, Junior Resident, NUHS, shared research on novel non-invasive markers of right ventricular–pulmonary artery coupling in rheumatic mitral stenosis, highlighting prognostic value beyond conventional measures.
Collectively, these achievements underscore NUHCS’ commitment to advancing cardiovascular science, nurturing future clinician-researchers, and strengthening Singapore’s presence on the global academic stage.
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