NEW ORLEANS, USA — The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has named 20 recipients of its 2026 Distinguished Awards, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the cardiovascular profession.
Of the 20 awardees, Professor Poh Kian Keong, Director of Research and Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, Singapore (NUHCS), and Associate Chairman Medical Board, National University Hospital, is the distinguished recipient of the 2026 Navin C. Nanda International Service Award.
Prof Poh is the first and only Singaporean cardiologist to have received an ACC Distinguished Award.
The Navin C. Nanda International Service Award – named in honour of Dr Navin C. Nanda – recognises outstanding contributions to cardiovascular medicine and international service, honouring individuals who have made enhanced cardiovascular care throughout the world.
“I am honored to recognise Kian Keong Poh, MBBCH, MA, MMed, FACC, with the Navin C. Nanda International Service Award,” said ACC President Christopher M. Kramer, MD, FACC. “Kian Keong Poh has demonstrated remarkable work that will bolster the ACC’s mission to transform cardiovascular care and improve heart health for all.”
“I am privileged and humbled to receive this special award, which is close to my heart,” said Prof Poh. “Through cardiology efforts across Singapore, Asia, the United States and beyond, we are able to collectively improve cardiovascular outcomes internationally. At NUHCS, this commitment to advancing cardiovascular care through research, education and collaboration underpins our contributions to global cardiology.”
“The ACC has enormous resources and determination within its DNA in transforming cardiovascular health around the world. The Assembly of International Governors is a unique platform that pivots these aims through science, education and initiatives tailored to local needs worldwide,” added Prof Poh.
Awardees were recognised during the Convocation at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session (ACC.26), held from 28 to 30 March 2026, in New Orleans.
Editor’s Note
ACC.26 brought together cardiologists and cardiovascular specialists from around the world to share the newest discoveries in treatment and prevention.
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is the global leader in transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. As the preeminent source ofprofessional medical education for the entire cardiovascular care team since 1949, ACC credentials cardiovascular professionals in over 140 countries who meet stringent qualifications and leads in the formation of health policy, standards and guidelines. Through its world-renowned family of JACC Journals, NCDR registries, ACC Accreditation Services, global network of Member Sections, CardioSmart patient resources and more, the College is committed to ensuring a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at www.ACC.org.
