Introductory description

This third-year undergraduate module provides students with comprehensive knowledge of current aspects in cardiovascular medicine, being provided from a pathobiological point of view. It will exploration the multidimensional landscape of cardiovascular medicine, covering essential topics including underlying biological causes, disease mechanisms, diagnostic and treatment approaches including experimental ones. It will also cover ongoing biological and biomedical research in the field. Moreover, the module delves into non-pathological aspects such as the impact of exercise on the cardiovascular system. Students will also engage with emerging technologies, concepts of novel pharmacotherapies for cardiovascular conditions and, where applicable, ethical considerations in cardiovascular medicine.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This courses aims to develop a deep understanding of the of pathologies of the cardiovascular system, including but not limited to: cancer, thromboembolism, pathological signal processing, vascular disease, myocardial infarction, congenital diseases, immunological diseases, and infection. You will explore treatment of cardiovascular diseases using pharmacological and surgical approaches. Finally, we will look at cutting edge research in the field, in areas such as, regenerative medicine and advanced and experimental cardiosurgical approaches

We will consolidate this information using interactive workshop on clinical cases (2 parts, 2 hours each)

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• understand the principles, concepts, and methodologies in cardiovascular medicine
• apply critical thinking skills to analyse and evaluate complex aspects of cardiovascular disease development, progression, diagnosis and treatment
• integrate knowledge across different sub-disciplines in cardiovascular medicine and research including biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, immunology, physiology and clinical approaches
• apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios such as patient case studies to propose appropriate diagnostic and treatment strategies based on the acquired knowledge
• demonstrate proficiency in interpreting scientific research research results and translating knowledge into practical application or potential research concepts in cardiovascular medicine
• effectively communicate complex scientific concepts both in writing (end of the year assessment) and orally (interactive workshop on real-world cardiovascular cases)
• adapt to emerging technologies and novel therapeutic approaches in cardiovascular medicine, as well as to anticipate future trends and challenges

Interdisciplinary

The module includes elements from different disciplines in biomedical science and interlinks basic biological with medical aspects

Subject specific skills

1. Comprehensive understanding of cardiovascular medicine: mastery of the fundamental concepts, principles, and overview of cardiovascular medicine as a specialised field of study.
2. Challenges: Ability to identify and comprehend current trends and challenges in cardiovascular
   research, staying informed about the latest developments.
3. Pathomechanistical proficiency: in-depth knowledge of pathomechanisms and their interaction in cardiovascular disease
4. Risk factor evaluation: skill in evaluating the imp[act of cardiovascular risk factors and how they affect the cardiovascular system. Understanding prevention and public health approaches
5. Understanding of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches: based on acquired knowledge about the pathobiology in cardiovascular diseases, a profound understanding of clinical approach is gained with emphasis on the pathobiological rationale behind these approaches
6. Translational research expertise: in-depth knowledge on current research trends in cardiovascular medicine including practical key questions and translational research for subsequent clinical applications. Understanding of main approaches and methodology used, expertise about critical knowledge gaps

Transferable skills

1. Critical Thinking: The ability to critically analyse perspectives, current trends, and challenges in
   cardiovascular research, fostering a mindset for thoughtful evaluation and decision-making.
   2, Problem Solving: Development of problem-solving skills, particularly evident in the analysis of clinical cases,
   discussions on treatment options, and consideration of multidisciplinary approaches in cardiovascular medicine.
2. Communication Skills: Enhancement of communication skills through interactive workshop with case study
   discussion and group activities, promoting effective expression and exchange of ideas.
3. Collaboration and Teamwork: Participation in group activities, such as the interactive
   workshop with student-led presentation instils teamwork and collaboration skills essential for multidisciplinary approaches in the field.
4. Research Skills: Acquisition of research skills, demonstrated by the understanding of emerging technologies,
   novel therapeutic modalities, and predictions for the future of cardiovascular research.
5. Ethical Awareness: Increased awareness of ethical considerations in cardiovascular research and treatment,
   emphasizing the importance of ethical decision-making, patient advocacy, and addressing healthcare
   disparities.
6. Adaptability: Development of adaptability, as showcased in the exploration of diverse topics ranging from
   molecular pathways to integrated treatment concepts and future directions in cardiovascular research.
7. Decision-making under uncertainty: Practical experience in decision-making under uncertainty, particularly in
   the workshop's clinical case discussion, reflecting real-world scenarios where information may be incomplete
   or evolving.