Public Release of 'Heart Failure Narratives' via Video, Audio, and Text

DIPEx-Japan (Director: Takeo Nakayama; Office: Chuo-ku, Tokyo), a certified NPO, has released its 12th project, 'Heart Failure Narratives.' (https://www.dipex-j.org/heart-failure/). Heart failure is a condition where cardiac function gradually declines due to various causes, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath and edema that hinder daily life. 'Heart Failure Narratives' features experiences shared by 33 patients (13 women, 20 men) aged 20s to 90s, and 3 family members aged 50s to 60s. The content includes over 150 narratives in video, audio, and text formats, categorized into three themes: 'What is Heart Failure,' 'Treatment,' and 'Daily Life.' 'What is Heart Failure' includes explanations by cardiologist Dr. Mitsuru Kagoshima, followed by topics like 'Onset of Symptoms' and 'Stress.' 'Treatment' covers 'Pharmacotherapy,' 'Pacemakers,' 'ICU Experiences,' and 'Interactions with Medical Staff.' 'Daily Life' addresses 'Diet and Hydration,' 'Work and Heart Disease,' 'Economic Impact,' 'Public Systems,' and 'Marriage/Childbirth.' The project, led by Noriko Iba, aims to share the experience of living with heart disease to support patients, families, and medical professionals.