The Internal Medicine Practice Dr Mačkić in Sarajevo, led by Dr Milan Gluhović, actively participated in the national Heart Failure Awareness Week campaign. This important public health initiative was organized across Bosnia and Herzegovina with the aim of improving early recognition and diagnosis of heart failure.
The campaign was led by the Association of Cardiologists in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with media support from BHTV, helping to raise awareness among a wide population about the importance of early detection of heart failure.
Patient Screening – The First Step Toward Early Detection
During the campaign, organized patient screening was conducted at the Internal Medicine Practice Dr Mačkić to identify individuals with symptoms suggestive of heart failure.
Patients underwent a structured assessment of symptoms and risk factors, allowing timely identification of those who required further diagnostic evaluation. This approach enables early detection, often before symptoms become severe.
NT-proBNP Testing – Fast and Reliable Assessment
As part of the screening process, NT-proBNP testing was performed. This biomarker plays a key role in the diagnosis of heart failure, as elevated levels indicate increased cardiac stress and the need for further cardiological evaluation.
One of the key advantages of the Internal Medicine Practice Dr Mačkić is the availability of rapid NT-proBNP testing, with results ready within 15 to 20 minutes. This allows immediate clinical decision-making during the same visit.
Heart Ultrasound – A Key Diagnostic Tool
Patients with suspected heart failure are referred for echocardiography (heart ultrasound), which is the cornerstone of heart failure diagnosis.
At the Internal Medicine Practice Dr Mačkić, a comprehensive echocardiographic examination can be performed, including assessment of:
- Cardiac pump function (ejection fraction)
- Heart valve function
- Pulmonary pressures
- Diastolic function
- Right ventricular function
The combination of echocardiography and NT-proBNP testing provides a fast and accurate evaluation of heart function.
Media Engagement and Public Education
As part of the campaign, Dr Milan Gluhović, acting as an organizer on behalf of the Association of Cardiologists in Bosnia and Herzegovina, participated in multiple appearances on BHTV. During these interviews, he emphasized the importance of early recognition of heart failure symptoms, modern diagnostic approaches, and available treatment options.
These media activities played an important role in educating the public and raising awareness about this serious and often under-recognized condition.
Why Early Detection of Heart Failure Matters
Heart failure is a chronic condition that can be effectively managed if diagnosed early. Timely diagnosis allows for early initiation of therapy, reduction of symptoms, and significant improvement in quality of life.
Modern diagnostic strategies, combining clinical evaluation, echocardiography, and laboratory testing such as NT-proBNP, enable fast and reliable assessment of cardiac function.
When Should You See a Cardiologist?
If you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, leg swelling, or irregular heartbeat, it is recommended to seek a cardiology consultation.
At the Internal Medicine Practice Dr Mačkić in Sarajevo, comprehensive heart failure diagnostics are available in one place – including cardiology consultation, echocardiography, and rapid NT-proBNP testing with results available within minutes.
Early diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.