Cardiomyopathies are a group of diseases that affect the heart and can interfere with the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. These conditions are often hereditary and may go undetected for years, even though they can lead to serious complications such as abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) or heart failure. Despite their serious impact on patients’ daily lives, cardiomyopathies are often underrecognized and underdiagnosed. Timely diagnosis and a well-coordinated care pathway are therefore essential for patients.
To raise awareness about these conditions, Cardiomyopathies Matter Belgium launched a podcast series in which cardiologist Prof. Emeline Van Craenenbroeck (UZA) and patient Sophie Charlier share their knowledge and experiences in respectively Dutch and French.
In her episode, Prof. Van Craenenbroeck explains the different types of cardiomyopathies, how they develop, potential symptoms and the importance of screening, early detection, and available treatments. Sophie Charlier, who underwent a heart transplantation due to cardiomyopathy, shares how it has impacted her life.
