Raising awareness of little-known heart rhythm disorder that affects millions

The non-profit organization Arrhythmia Alliance hosted an award ceremony at The Palace of Westminster, London, UK during World Heart Rhythm Week to acknowledge these leading clinicians as Pioneers in their fields.  The SVT Pioneers report provides examples of good care to inspire Centers across the globe to improve outcomes and quality of life of people with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).  

Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a rapid increase in the heart rhythm that leaves people breathless and anxious. Diagnosis of SVT can be challenging because the irregular heart rhythm comes and goes, and, therefore, is difficult to identify unless an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) can record an episode at the time it occurs. Another challenge is that despite treatment (e.g. medication such as beta-blockers), some people with SVT continue to have symptoms. Additionally, some people discontinue taking medication because they cannot tolerate the side-effects.

To inspire others to improve care standards for patients with the SVT, Arrhythmia Alliance called for healthcare teams to showcase their exemplary work in SVT services. The case studies were reviewed by an international panel of expert judges, with the winners published in the report and recognised as a ‘Center of Excellence’.

Board member and Medical Director of Arrhythmia Alliance, Prof Hugh Calkins from The Johns Hopkins Hospital, USA reports:

“The aim of the report is to provide case studies to inspire centers around the world to improve care and quality of life for people with SVT. Arrhythmia Alliance is proud to announce winners for 2022 from America, UK, Canada, Australia and Malaysia the winning case studies demonstrate innovative approaches to managing SVT.”

“Millions of people daily suffer with worrying palpitations, hearts racing, breathlessness and overwhelming feelings of panic, for some it is so disabling they cannot work, exercise or lead normal active lives.  Living in fear as to when the next attack may occur only adds to the ongoing anxiety and stress.  Yet for many treatment restores the heart to its normal rhythm.  Accessing experts and appropriate treatment can be challenging so identifying centers and publicising their work will help patients receive the latest treatments leading to better outcomes” reports Mrs Trudie Lobban MBE Founder of Arrhythmia Alliance.

The report can be accessed: www.SVTpioneers.org