On October 9, local time in Rio de Janeiro, the World Heart Federation (WHF) announced the results of its latest Board election. Professor Ge Junbo, Member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Director of Cardiology at Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, was elected WHF President-Elect for 2027–2028.
This marks a major milestone for Chinese cardiovascular medicine. Professor Ge is the first Chinese cardiovascular expert to be elected to this top leadership position in the WHF’s more than 40-year history, reflecting the growing global recognition of China’s contributions to cardiovascular medicine.
The WHF brings together cardiology societies and heart foundations from more than 100 countries and regions and is the founder of World Heart Day.
In 2018, Professor Ge became the first Chinese scientist to join the WHF Board. Over the following years, he continued to represent Asia and promote Chinese experience and innovation in global cardiovascular discussions.
His election reflects the remarkable progress of Chinese cardiovascular medicine—from adopting international advances to developing and sharing original innovations with the world.
Guided by the belief that medicine should help patients live with dignity, Professor Ge has made significant contributions to cardiovascular research and treatment:
Discovery of the myocardial bridge “half-moon phenomenon”: Identified a distinctive diagnostic sign through intravascular ultrasound research, gaining international recognition.
Development of domestic coronary stents: Led the development of innovative stent technologies, including biodegradable coating technologies, helping make advanced treatment more accessible.
Landmark structural heart procedures: Led China’s first transcatheter aortic and pulmonary valve implantations, as well as Asia’s first transcatheter mitral valve repair and ectopic tricuspid valve implantation procedures.
Innovation in ValveClamp: Pioneered a transapical mitral valve clipping technique and device in 2018. The device received regulatory approval in 2023, marking an important step forward in China’s structural heart innovation.
As Chair of the China Cardiovascular Health Alliance and President of the Cardiovascular Physicians Branch of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association, Professor Ge has championed the development of chest pain centers nationwide, helping patients with acute myocardial infarction receive timely treatment.
He has also led the development of the China Cardiovascular Health Index, contributed to national medical education, and trained generations of medical professionals.
Beyond China, he has supported cardiovascular training programs for countries along the Belt and Road Initiative and helped coordinate donations of medical supplies to countries and regions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, the World Congress of Cardiology and the Oriental Congress of Cardiology were held concurrently in Shanghai, showcasing China’s achievements and commitment to international collaboration.
Professor Ge’s presidential theme is “Heart Health for Everyone: From Commitment to Action.” His agenda focuses on five priorities: equitable heart health, global emergency response systems, global cardiovascular training, empowering regional communities, and strengthening the global cardiovascular community.
These priorities build on his longstanding work in China, including chest pain center development, standardized medical training, and improved access to care at the community level. China’s experience can help inform cardiovascular health initiatives around the world.
Cardiovascular disease remains the world’s leading health threat. China is increasingly contributing not only knowledge and innovation, but also leadership and practical solutions to this global challenge.
For Rizhao International Heart Hospital, Professor Ge’s election is both an honor and an inspiration. We remain committed to putting patients first and advancing clinical excellence, specialty development, medical education, and regional collaboration to safeguard cardiovascular health.
Rizhao International Heart Hospital extends its warmest congratulations to Professor Ge Junbo. We look forward to working with colleagues worldwide to turn shared commitments into meaningful improvements in heart health for all.
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