Croí and NUIG signal new era for cardiac disease prevention

A pioneering new collaboration between NUI Galway and the heart and stroke charity Croí has set itself the singular aim of reducing death and disability from cardiac disease in the West.
Indeed the reach of the country’s first National Institute for Preventive Cardiology will extend far outside the province, ushering in a new era of research and education into the prevention of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity in the West.
The NIPC aims to lead the way to develop and test innovative models of preventive care and service delivery on a broader basis.
The Institute, based in Croí’s Heart and Stroke Centre in Newcastle Galway, will develop relationships and partnerships with policy makers and health practitioners in preventive care in Ireland and around the world.
It will develop new teaching and training opportunities for health care professionals working with individuals and communities to bring about behaviour and lifestyle changes.
“This is a very significant step for Croi and represents another milestone in our 30 year history as a charity,” said Croí CEO Neil Johnson this week.
“Over the past number of years, Croi has led the way nationally in delivering innovative community based cardiovascular disease prevention and recovery programmes.
“Our Heart & Stroke Centre here in Galway is the only facility of its kind in Ireland. We have a dedicated health team working on a daily basis to support those affected by heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity by delivering evidence based interventions.
“Over the years we have developed very strong collaborative links with NUI Galway and the establishment of a National Institute just brings this relationship to a new level and signals a commitment to prioritise preventive healthcare in Ireland,” he said.

For more on this story, see the Galway City Tribune.