Scientific programme

Key figures

Over 250 sessions including:   
• 143 Scientific sessions
• 21 Special featured joint sessions
• 11 South American Congress of Cardiology sessions in Spanish
• 58 Oral abstract sessions (7 papers/session)
• 25 Satellite symposia and workshops (Industry)


Session based programme

Session types:

SYMPOSIA allowed for in-depth discussion of recent developments in various fields of basic science, epidemiology and clinical cardiology. The session had either 4 or 5 speakers.

DEBATES provided a lively yet balanced discussion on controversial issues. 2 statements were discussed, each with a pro and contra presentation followed by a discussion at the end of each statement (15 minutes each time).

HOW-TO & WORKSHOP SESSIONS gave a unique opportunity for intense interaction between a limited audience and two or three experts in various fields of clinical cardiology. The session format was of 2 speakers who gave a 15-minute presentation each followed by a 30-minute discussion each.

CLINICAL SEMINARS were designed to highlight what every clinician should know about various specific subspecialty topics. The sessions did not target exclusively specialists but also a general audience. Hence the speakers made every effort possible to address the essentials of each topic. The session had either 4 or 5 speakers.


CME accreditation

The WCC 2008 was accredited by the European Board of Accrediation EBAC for 18 CME credit hours. 1565 CME certificates were issued through an online procedure made available after the congress to all the delegates who attended.


Abstract based programme

Over 2037 abstract submissions:  
• 1389 accepted as posters
• 413 accepted as oral presentations
• 35 withdrawn
• 200 rejected

Acceptance rate posters: 67%
Acceptance rate oral sessions: 20%