The 4th Balkan Congress on Cardiovascular Imaging, known as CMR Forum 2026, has commenced in Belgrade, Serbia, at the Hotel Moskva. This significant event in the field of cardiovascular imaging has attracted over 350 participants from various nations, including Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and the United States. The congress aims to facilitate the exchange of the latest scientific knowledge and to enhance professional collaboration among experts in cardiovascular imaging.
Marija Zdravković, the director of KBC Bežanijska kosa, highlighted Serbia’s prominent role in the field, stating that the CMR Forum has become a recognized Serbian brand in Europe and globally. “This is the fourth Balkan congress, but we have participants from all over Europe, with over 350 registered attendees, including the most eminent experts in cardiac magnetic resonance from Berlin, Zurich, Rome, and the United States,” Zdravković said. She emphasized Serbia’s leadership in conducting cardiovascular imaging, education, and scientific research in cardiac magnetic resonance.
The forum features more than 18 sessions where esteemed experts will discuss advanced topics related to cardiac magnetic resonance. Zdravković noted that cardiovascular imaging is a “hot topic” at both global and European congresses. Among the notable speakers is Professor Filip Hala, who delivered a lecture in Belgrade on the fundamentals of diagnosing inflammatory diseases of the myocardium and pericardium using magnetic resonance imaging.
The congress has positioned Belgrade as a central hub for cardiac magnetic resonance in Europe, with a significant number of participants from neighboring regions such as North Macedonia, Slovenia, Republika Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Zdravković explained the complexity of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, which involves capturing the heart’s structures as it moves, with the heart beating between 60 and 120 times per minute. This technique is not performed on all patients but is crucial for about 10% of cases where an accurate diagnosis is needed to determine the appropriate treatment.
During the opening of the forum, statistics on mortality rates in Serbia for 2023 were presented, with high blood pressure identified as the leading risk factor, recorded in over 38,000 cases. Other significant risk factors include smoking, air pollution, high cholesterol levels, and obesity.
The congress not only underscores Serbia’s advancements in medical imaging and healthcare education but also serves as a platform for regional and international collaboration in the medical field. This event is part of Serbia’s broader efforts to establish itself as a leader in healthcare innovation and education, fostering an environment where experts can share insights and collaborate on future medical practices and research.
