Nursing university to research cardiovascular patients and depression

The University of Calgary – Qatar has been awarded an $800,000 USD grant to research ‘Depression amongst cardiovascular patients in Qatar.’

“Given that cardiovascular diseases are rising worldwide and in Qatar, it is imperative that we investigate what Arab cardiovascular patients and their health care providers in Qatar are experiencing with mental health issues and care in order to increase awareness, promote early recognition, and treatment of depression, which will, in turn, improve both quality of life and survival of cardiovascular patients,” explains Dr Tam Truong Donnelly Associate Professor, University of Calgary-Qatar (Lead Principal Investigator).

Dr Jassim Al Suwaidi, Director of HMC Cardiovascular Research Department, will serve as a co-investigator in the project.  He says, “In Qatar, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death. Studies show that depression is associated with an increased morbidity and mortality among cardiovascular patients. Thus, early detection of and intervention for depression among cardiovascular patients can reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and save health care costs.”

UCQ Dean and CEO Dr. Carolyn Byrne, who will also participate in the project stated, “We are grateful to the Qatar National Research Fund for its confidence in the expertise at UCQ and in our Qatar partners.”

They include: HMC cardiologists: Dr Awad Al Qahtani, Dr Nidal Asaad, HMC psychiatrist: Dr Najla Al Haj, HMC Biostatistician: Dr. Rajvir Singh.  Dr. Tak Shing Fung, Senior Mathematical/Statistical Consultant, University of Calgary, main campus will also serve as consultant.

I am so very happy and grateful to QNRF for granting the award. We can now work on a project that will address the health care needs and benefit people of Qatar,” concluded Dr Donnelly.

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