- As an official specialty area of medicine, cardiology has only been around for about fifty years. However, the study of the heart and heart disorders has been around for centuries. The ancient Egyptians made many discoveries about the heart during the process of mummification. Though there have been many advances in cardiology over the years, a few of the major achievements include the first successful heart surgery in 1896, the creation of the first artificial heart valve in 1950, and the first human heart transplant in 1967.
- Cardiology is the specialty area of medicine that deals with disorders of the heart and the blood vessels. Since there is a long list of diseases and conditions that can affect these systems, it is important that individuals suffering from problems associated with the cardiovascular system are evaluated by a physician trained to recognize and treat the symptoms of these conditions. Physicians who specialize in cardiology are called cardiologists. These specialist typically undergo at least six years of specialized training beyond medical school.
- There are three broad categories of physicians involved in the field of cardiology. Depending on a patient's situation, more than one of these specialists may be involved in the individual's care. Cardiologist work with adults to help prevent, identify, and treat conditions of the heart and vascular system. Pediatric cardiologist provide the same basic care as cardiologists, except they focus on children and infants. These specialists treat fetuses up through adults age eighteen. Cardiac surgeons are trained to perform delicate surgeries on the heart, lungs and blood vessels.
- In a world where a growing percent of the population suffers from obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, the field of cardiology is expanding. In 2001, the American Heart Association estimated that 39% of deaths were caused by cardiovascular disease. While the demand for cardiology services is ever increasing, the number of medical students choosing to enter the field of cardiology is decreasing.
- While the field of cardiology has come a long way over the years, there is still a lot of research being done on how to better prevent and treat heart conditions. Many researchers are looking at the benefits of various diets and types of exercise on the cardiovascular system. Pharmaceutical companies are continually seeking ways to improve quality of life for those living with heart conditions. Future advances will help patients with chronic and acute heart conditions live longer and suffer from fewer symptoms.
