Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist, Vancouver, BC

Dr. Graham Wong

Dr. Graham Wong

MPH, FRCPC
Cardiologist
Vancouver, BC
Bio & Education  
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Dr. Graham Wong Bio

Dr. Graham Wong Clinical Professor Dr. Wong graduated from medical school at UBC. He completed his internal medicine residency at UBC and subsequently completed his fellowship training in cardiology at McGill University. He then pursued a 2-year research fellowship at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital with the TIMI Group and completed his MPH at the Harvard School of Public Health. He is also board certified by the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography.

Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist is the Program Director for the UBC Adult Cardiology Residency Training Program, the Associate Director of the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Vancouver General Hospital, the Medical Director of the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority (VCHA) Regional STEMI Program and the Regional Physician Lead for Acute Cardiac Care for VCHA. Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist is a sitting member of the AHA Acute Care Cardiology Committee and is a Clinical Professor of Medicine at UBC.

Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist has won a number of major teaching awards including the Canadian Cardiovascular Society Distinguished Teacher Award, UBC Clinical Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching, the VGH Bobby Miller Teaching Prize, the UBC Department of Medicine Master Teacher Award and the UBC Killam Teaching Prize. Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist was the Co-chair for both the 2019 CCS/CAIC Guideline on the Management of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and the 2017 CCS/CANCARE/CAIC Position Statement on the Optimal Care of the Post Arrest Patient.

Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist was also a member of the Primary Author Panel for the 2013 and 2018 CCS Guidelines on Antiplatelet Therapy and is a member of the Primary Author Panel for the 2020 CCS/Canadian Neurocritical Care Society Position Statement on Neuroprognostication following Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest.

Featured Videos by Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist

The Heart Health Benefits of Eggplants

What is an Echocardiogram?

Diagnostic Stress Test

What is a Holter Monitor?

Atrial Fibrillation And The Link To Stroke

The Side Effects of Blood Thinners and ACE Inhibitors

What Is a Stent and How Does It Work

Heart Attack Recovery and Medications You May Consider

How Dependable is a Pacemaker?

The Side Effects of Blood Thinners and ACE Inhibitors

The Heart Health Benefits of Lettuce

Heart Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes and Butternut Squash

What Is A Pacemaker and Is It the Right Treatment For You?

What You Can Do To Help Prevent Heart Disease

 

Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist, Vancouver  Is in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist, Vancouver  is in good standing with the   Canadian Cardiovascular Association and the Canadian Medical Association

Dr. Graham Wong, VGH , Cardiologist, Vancouver


( Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist, Vancouver, BC) is in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons.

If you are looking for local services or treatment from a Local Cardiologist for reviews, contact info, practice history, affiliated hospitals & more  in the office or hospital from a Cardiologist, contact a provider such as ( Dr. Graham Wong ) to inquire if they are accepting patients at the office you need a referral.   Phone number to book an appointment 604-875-5735 ( Dr. Graham Wong )  Is in good standing with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the CANADIAN CARDIOVASCULAR SOCIETY

Keywords: Heart Health: Heart Failure, Heart Health: Atrial Fibrillation, Heart Health: Heart Attack, Heart Health: Cardiothoracic Surgery, Heart Health: Heart Disease, Heart Health: Congestive Heart Failure

The speaker in the video may have no association with ( Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist Vancouver, BC ). 
( Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist Vancouver, BC ), may talk about some of the conditions and some of the treatment options shown on the videos. Always talk with your Local Cardiologist at the office about the information you learnt from the videos in regards to treatments and procedures the Local Cardiologist could  perform and if they would be appropriate for you. Remember good information is the corner stone to understanding your condition or disease.

Education

  • University of British Columbia
    MD, Internal Medicine
  • McGill University
    Cardiology
  • Brigham and Women's Hospital
    Two-year research fellowship
  • Harvard School of Public Health.
    MPH

Recent Health Talks Authored by Dr. Graham Wong

  • How a Pacemaker Treats an Irregular Heartbeat " Shirley a 75-year-old previously healthy woman"

    Shirley is a 75-year-old previously healthy woman who visits her family doctor with a 2-month history of lightheadedness and weakness. She has no significant past medical history and is currently taking no prescription medications other than an occasional sleeping pill.

    Her physical examination is essentially normal aside from a slow heart rate of 50 beats per minute. She is sent for an ECG which is interpreted as sinus bradycardia with a right bundle branch block and a first degree AV block. Her family doctor arranges for a holter monitor (heart rhythm monitor), which reveals occasional pauses up to 3.5 seconds in duration, which correlate with her symptoms of lightheadedness. On this basis she is referred for an urgent outpatient pacemaker implantation after discussion over the phone with a cardiologist.

    Shirley and her family have a number of questions about what a pacemaker is, what it does, and how it will help her. Shirley is also concerned about the potential danger of the procedure itself as she was told that it would involve a type of surgery.

    Shirley would benefit from some monitoring following her procedure, and should be assigned to a cardiologist for follow-up care. She can also speak with a pharmacist regarding her medications to identify any possible interactions.

  • What is a Heart Attack? " Patrick a 70-year-old diabetic man with a 2-year history of stable chest pain"

    Patrick is a 70-year-old diabetic man with a 2-year history of stable chest pain when he exerts himself. He is awoken from sleep with the acute onset of crushing central chest pain which radiates to his neck and left arm. His normal medications include normally aspirin, a diuretic, a cholesterol-lowering pill and insulin. He is mildly short of breath and also starts sweating profusely. He takes two Tums which fail to relieve his symptoms and his wife calls 911. The ambulance comes within 10 minutes of the 911 call and they perform an in-field ECG. The automatic ECG interpretation reads "Acute anterior wall ST elevation myocardial infarction". The ambulance attendant tells him that he is having a large heart attack which is potentially life-threatening and is being caused by an acute blockage of a major coronary artery by a blood clot that had formed on top of an unstable blockage of cholesterol.

    Patrick is given 2 baby aspirins to chew and swallow and is immediately transported to the nearest hospital for treatment. He is told that the hospital he is going to has the capability of performing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI), otherwise known as emergency angioplasty and stunting.

    He has several questions prior to signing his consent form for the procedure, including the risk of the heart attack to his life, the treatment options available to him, and the long term outcomes as a consequence of his heart attack. He also wants to know what will happen to him after he leaves the hospital and what his prognosis will be.

    Patrick would benefit from seeing a cardiologist on a regular basis as well as being involved in a healthy heart program which is often offered through hospitals. He may also benefit from seeing a dietitian to see if he can lower his cholesterol levels through diet. After he is treated and on his way to recovery, he may wish to start a cardiac rehab exercise program to gain back his strength.

  • Increasing Chest Pain and Cardiac Stents " Wayne a 52-year-old man with high cholesterol "

    Wayne is a 52-year-old man with a history of high cholesterol and hypertension. He is referred to a cardiologist for the evaluation of exertional chest pain that has been worsening for 6 months. Walking only 2 blocks on the level reliably precipitated his chest pain. He had no symptoms at rest, and stopping exercise reliably relieved the discomfort.

    A treadmill examination is arranged and is interpreted as being abnormal after 6 minutes of exercise. A trial of medical therapy with a beta blocker and a nitroglycerin patch is attempted, but it fails to relieve his symptoms satisfactorily. Therefore, Wayne is referred for coronary angiography to define his coronary anatomy and possibly perform a revascularization procedure. He is told that a stent may be implanted if a significant blockage is identified. He is concerned about the long-term implications of stent implantation and the need to take blood thinners for an extended period of time. He is also asking how long stents last and if they ever need to be removed.

    Wayne may benefit his condition by further discussion with his cardiologist to address his hypertension and chest pain. A cardiovascular surgeon can discuss the options available to him, such as cardiac revascularization or the use of a stent. If surgery does ensue, a cardiac rehabilitation program will be needed. In the meantime, seeing a nutritionist regarding his cholesterol levels would be good, as well as searching for ways to control any stress he may be experiencing, such as yoga or massage.

Recent Health Talk Comments by Dr. Graham Wong

  • 01 July 2023
    After a heart attack, making healthy lifestyle choices is crucial in addition to medical treatment. These lifestyle changes have both direct and indirect effects on the heart. A significant study showed that nine modifiable risk factors can predict around 90 percent of all heart attacks, and these factors can be positively influenced by adopting a healthier lifestyle. The modifiable risk factors that can be addressed through lifestyle changes include: Smoking: Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps in reducing the risk of heart attacks. High cholesterol: Following a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats, as well as maintaining a healthy weight, can help manage cholesterol levels. High blood pressure: Regular exercise, reducing sodium intake, adopting a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress are all effective in controlling blood pressure. Diabetes: Managing blood sugar levels through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and appropriate medication or insulin use is essential for individuals with diabetes. Fruit and vegetable intake: Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote heart health. Truncal obesity: Maintaining a healthy weight, particularly around the waist, is beneficial for heart health. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Physical inactivity: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercises, can improve cardiovascular fitness and reduce the risk of heart attacks. High levels of psychosocial stress: Managing stress through relaxation techniques, counseling, and social support can help reduce the risk of heart problems. Moderate alcohol intake: If alcohol is consumed, it should be done in moderation, as excessive alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on heart health. These lifestyle changes work synergistically with any prescribed medications from healthcare providers following a heart attack. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and employing stress reduction techniques are crucial components of post-heart attack care and can significantly improve long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events. It is important to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop an individualized plan that addresses these lifestyle factors.
  • 29 June 2023
    A myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is an acute event that occurs as a result of a chronic condition called atherosclerotic heart disease. During a heart attack, there is a blockage in the blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to the death of heart muscle tissue. The primary treatment for heart attacks involves the use of blood-thinning drugs, with aspirin being the most commonly prescribed. In certain cases, additional blood-thinning medications may be used alongside aspirin. One such medication is clopidogrel, also known as Plavix, and there are newer drugs available, such as prasugrel (Effient) and ticagrelor (Brilinta), that show promise in enhancing the efficacy of clopidogrel. It is important to note that all medications can have side effects, although their prevalence may vary. When it comes to blood-thinning drugs, including clopidogrel, aspirin, prasugrel, and ticagrelor, the most common side effect is bleeding. This can manifest as easy bruising or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or injuries. Severe bleeding, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or bleeding in the head or eyes, is very rare and not typically associated with these medications. While bleeding can be bothersome and inconvenient, it is rarely life-threatening. However, it is important for individuals taking these medications to exercise caution to prevent accidents or injuries that could lead to bleeding. Another class of medications commonly used in heart attack treatment is ACE inhibitors. The most common side effect of ACE inhibitors is a dry, persistent cough. While this side effect can be irritating, it is not considered dangerous. If patients find the cough intolerable, alternatives can be explored. A rare but more concerning side effect of ACE inhibitors is angioedema, an allergic reaction characterized by pronounced swelling, particularly around the airways, which can cause difficulty in breathing. Although angioedema is uncommon, if breathing difficulties occur while taking an ACE inhibitor, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention as it can be a medical emergency. While the aforementioned side effects are the more common ones associated with these medications, there may be idiosyncratic or rare reactions that are not as prevalent. If you suspect you are experiencing a side effect from a particular drug, it is recommended to consult your physician or pharmacist promptly. Since each individual's medical conditions and biology are unique, medication choices may vary for different individuals. If you have any concerns or issues related to medication, it is best to consult your own healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
  • 29 June 2023
    Atrial fibrillation is a condition that significantly increases the risk of stroke compared to the general population. The risk is approximately five times higher for individuals with atrial fibrillation. Strokes can have severe consequences and lead to other health complications. For patients with atrial fibrillation, it is crucial to understand the importance of taking prescribed anticoagulant medications regularly. Anticoagulants, often referred to as blood thinners, help prevent the formation of blood clots that can travel to different parts of the body, including the brain, and cause a stroke. Therefore, it is essential for patients not to forget or miss their daily doses of blood thinners. Compliance with medication is of utmost importance in stroke prevention for individuals with atrial fibrillation. Even missing a single dose can increase the risk of a stroke. Patients should have open discussions with their prescribing doctors to determine the most suitable anticoagulant medication for their specific needs and strive for long-term compliance. Improved compliance leads to better outcomes in stroke prevention. Currently, there are several stroke prevention medications available on the market. Warfarin is a well-known option that has been used for over 40 years. However, it can be complex for patients to manage due to frequent blood tests and dosage adjustments based on factors like concurrent medications and dietary choices. Fortunately, newer anticoagulant drugs are now available, which offer similar safety profiles to Warfarin and, in some cases, provide even better stroke prevention. These newer drugs eliminate the need for regular blood tests and offer once-a-day or twice-a-day dosing options, enhancing patient compliance over time. When choosing the right anticoagulant, patients should consider factors such as safety, potential side effects, and ease of use. It is recommended that patients with atrial fibrillation consult with their family doctor or cardiologist to gather more information about stroke prevention and the benefits of these novel anticoagulants.
  • 23 June 2023
    A myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is an acute event that occurs as a result of a chronic condition called atherosclerotic heart disease. During a heart attack, there is a blockage in a coronary artery, leading to a cessation of blood flow and subsequent death of heart muscle. The mainstay of therapy for a heart attack involves the use of blood-thinning drugs. Aspirin is the most commonly used blood thinner. Depending on individual circumstances, additional blood-thinning medications may be prescribed alongside aspirin. Examples of such medications include clopidogrel (Plavix), prasugrel (Effient), and ticagrelor (Brilinta). Newer drugs like prasugrel and ticagrelor show promise in certain cases. It's important to note that all medications can have side effects, although the frequency and severity may vary. When it comes to blood-thinning drugs, the most common side effect is bleeding. This can manifest as easy bruising or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts or injuries. Severe or life-threatening bleeding, such as gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding in the head or eye, is extremely rare with these medications. While the bleeding associated with blood thinners can be bothersome, it's typically not life-threatening. However, individuals taking these medications should exercise caution to avoid accidents or injuries. ACE inhibitors, another class of medications commonly used in heart disease management, may have different side effects. The most common side effect of ACE inhibitors is a dry, hacking, and irritating cough. Although this side effect can be bothersome, it is not typically dangerous. If a patient finds the cough intolerable, alternative medications can be considered. A rare but alarming side effect of ACE inhibitors is angioedema, which presents as pronounced swelling, particularly around the airway, leading to difficulty breathing. While this side effect is uncommon, individuals experiencing breathing difficulties while taking an ACE inhibitor should seek immediate medical attention as it can be a medical emergency. It's important to remember that while these are the more common side effects associated with these medications, there can also be rare or idiosyncratic reactions. If you suspect you are experiencing a side effect from a specific medication, it is advisable to consult your physician or pharmacist promptly. Each individual's medical condition and biological makeup are unique, so medication choices may vary. It's important to consult with your own healthcare provider regarding any medication-related concerns or issues.
  • 23 June 2023
    Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a leading cause of death globally, affecting both developed and developing countries. There is overwhelming evidence that treating high blood pressure can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Over a five-year period, lowering blood pressure can reduce the risk of stroke by about 40% and the risk of heart attack by about 15%. Various strategies can be employed to reduce blood pressure. Lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and limiting sodium intake are important. However, in some cases, drug therapy is also necessary. It's crucial to understand that blood pressure is not a static measurement and tends to increase with age. Systolic blood pressure (the upper number) tends to rise steadily and peaks around the age of 80, while diastolic pressure (the bottom number) peaks around the age of 60. Therefore, even if a person has a normal blood pressure in their 40s or 50s, it may not remain normal in the future as it tends to increase in most individuals. Blood pressure is highly modifiable, and lifestyle factors play a significant role in its management. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sodium reduction can have a profound impact on preventing the development of high blood pressure. For the average individual, the normal blood pressure is considered to be 140/90, regardless of age. However, certain conditions such as kidney disease and diabetes increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Current guidelines recommend that individuals with diabetes or kidney problems aim for an upper limit of 130/80, rather than the general population's limit of 140/90. It's important to note that high blood pressure typically does not cause noticeable symptoms, underscoring the importance of having regular blood pressure checks to identify and manage hypertension. Unfortunately, the control of high blood pressure in Canada is suboptimal, with less than 20% of Canadians with hypertension having their blood pressure within recommended guidelines. Individuals should prioritize regular follow-ups with their family physician to have their blood pressure monitored. This ensures an understanding of their risk and allows for appropriate interventions if needed.

Ratings for Dr. Graham Wong

  • 4
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    Happy to Rate Dr. Graham Wong MPH, FRCPC, Local Cardiologist, Vancouver BC, Heart Failure NOW
    Submitted: February 24, 2024
  • 5
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    Would review Dr. Graham Wong MD, MPH, FRCPC, FACC, Acute Cardiac Care, VGH, Local Cardiologist, Vancouver BC to anyone as very good
    Submitted: September 25, 2022
  • 5
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    amazing doctor so kind and has a wealth of info was so help full.
    Submitted: August 03, 2022
  • 5
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    Dr. Graham Wong saved Vancouver's CTV News reporter Mike McCardell's life by restarting his heart ! Thank you from all Mike McCardell's longtime fans !
    Submitted: October 20, 2021
  • 5
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    Dr. Wong is amazing! He is down to earth and has a wicked sense of humor!
    Submitted: December 08, 2018
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    Have been seeing Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist, Vancouver, BC for AF for three years and have found him to be informative with very good info. Would recommend Dr Wong to anyone.
    Submitted: April 12, 2017
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    Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist, Vancouver, BC has been helping my mom for close to two years now with some AF and a slow heart murmur. I cannot say enough good things about DR Wong and all his staff.
    Submitted: February 14, 2017
  • 5
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    My Father has been treated by doctor Graham Wong for three years for A/F and we have found him to be excellent and we would recommend him to anyone looking for a good cardiologist in Vancouver
    Submitted: January 20, 2017
  • 5
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    Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist, Vancouver, BC has been treating my mother for two years and we find him excellent.
    Submitted: January 20, 2017
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    Dr. Graham Wong the Cardiologist at VGH in Vancouver, BC recently saw my father for his heart condition and was excellent. He took the time to give us information and seta course with a nutritionist. Over all very impressed with his treatment and information.
    Submitted: August 13, 2016
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    Visited Dr. Graham Wong, Cardiologist to discuss how dependable is my pacemaker as it was first installed over two years ago. Dr Wong told me it appeared by all the signs that it was working well and I would not have any issue for the foreseeable time.
    Submitted: February 06, 2016
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    Recently was referred to Dr Graham Wong for high blood pressure and an elevated heart rate. He took the time to really understand my lifestyle issues and concerns over travel schedule that dictated a lot of airline travel. Dr Wong referee me to a local personal trainer who got we an exercise routine I could take on the road with me.
    Submitted: February 03, 2016
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    I recently visited my cardiologist Dr. Graham Wong about the side effects of blood thinners and ace Inhibitors and he showed me a video that I could watch that he created, Brilliant and was thankful for the educational content.
    Submitted: January 28, 2016
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    Was referred to Dr. Graham Wong to discuss how dependable is a pacemaker in relation to an upcoming operation I was schedule to have in regards to a pacemaker being inserted in my chest. Was extremely impressed with Dr Wong and his understanding of my upcoming operation.
    Submitted: January 27, 2016
  • 4
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    Dr. Graham Wong a cardiologist at VGH in Vancouver helped me understand the harm in smoking and the risks to both my heart and my health.
    Submitted: January 27, 2016
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    Found Dr. Graham Wong to be an excellent Cardiologist VGH who has helped me with my AF for almost two years now. Would recommend DR Wong to anyone looking for a god Cardiologist in Vancouver at VGH to anyone.
    Submitted: January 24, 2016
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    I saw Dr. Wong for my atrial fibrillation that I've had for some time. He is very easy to talk to and seems to really know his stuff. I have been very happy with Dr. Wong and would recommend him to anyone looking for a great cardiologist.
    Submitted: January 21, 2016
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    I recently saw Dr. Wong for the first time at Vancouver General Hospital. My physician felt I needed to see him based on an suspicious echo cardiogram. I found Dr. Wong to be gracious, polite and extremely informative. He answered all of my questions, provided me with information to take home, as well as directing me to this website to view his educational video dashboard on heart health topics. I would recommend Dr. Wong to anyone seeking a great cardiologist.
    Submitted: January 14, 2016
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    Was lucky enough to get a referral to Dr. Graham Wong a Cardiologist at VGH in Vancouver fro my heart condition and I could have not been more lucky. He was attentive and gave me some great information upon my condition. Would recommend him to anyone looking for a good cardiologist.
    Submitted: January 14, 2016
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    Found Dr Graham.Wong to be attentive and a good listener. He had good suggestions on a plan of action and provided me with good educational information on my AF
    Submitted: January 14, 2016

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