Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

This paper explores the pivotal role of professional societies in addressing the challenges posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a specific focus on cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), diabetes and obesity, cancers, and chronic respiratory diseases. This communication delves into the significant contributions that have been made by various international and national societies dedicated to research, education, and advocacy in the field of CVDs and other chronic diseases. Highlighting the alarming statistics of premature deaths caused by these diseases globally, the authors emphasize the imperative nature and importance of prevention and early management strategies. The South Asian Society on Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis (SASAT), established in 1993, emerges as a notable initiative discussed within this paper. Stemming from a grant awarded at the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis conference, SASAT was founded with a vision to combat the increased susceptibility of coronary artery disease (CAD) observed within the Indian\South Asian population. The paper elucidates the genesis of SASAT, detailing its founding principles and subsequent endeavors, including the organization of numerous international conferences in India and abroad. It underscores SASAT’s focus on education, early risk identification, management, and prevention of cardio-metabolic diseases, aligning with the overarching aim of curbing NCDs globally.

Keywords: SASAT, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, thrombosis