Integrating pharmacists into the treatment and management of Bermuda's number one cause of death ? circulatory diseases ? was the focus of a Bermuda Pharmaceutical Association (BPA) symposium.

The BPA along with the Argus Group, one of its lead sponsors, held the Fourth Annual Pharmacy Symposium to focus on circulatory diseases such as heart disease, stroke and heart attack at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess hotel.

Keynote speaker Dr. Sheri Koshman, a Clinical Postdoctoral Fellow, Division of Cardiology, University of Alberta, Canada presented cardiovascular risk assessment guidelines to aid pharmacists.

The guidelines explain the role of pharmacists in helping patients manage prevalent cardiovascular issues such as hypertension and dyslipidemia.

Dolores Correia, chairman of the continuing education committee for BPA, said: "Pharmacists play an essential role in helping patients with the management of many of their health conditions, including cardiovascular conditions.

"We hope that this symposium will lead to further integration of pharmacists into the treatment management team of doctors, nurses and patients."

Gerald Simons, president and chief executive officer of the Argus Group, said: "Argus is proud to be one of the lead sponsors of this symposium, which encourages the integration of the role of pharmacists in the care of patients with cardiovascular diseases.

"We applaud the BPA and the pharmacists of Bermuda who are committed to working in collaboration with patients and doctors to ensure the best possible treatment is provided."

The symposium took place last Sunday.