Jari Laukkanen MD, PhD, FESC

As a dedicated cardiologist and professor at the University of Eastern Finland, Jari A. Laukkanen, MD, PhD, FESC, balances both clinical practice and academic pursuits. Dr Laukkanen has significantly contributed to cardiovascular medicine through his clinical cardiology work and research.

His research work primarily revolves around the exploration of emerging cardio-metabolic risk factors and their association with cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes, such as coronary heart disease, sudden cardiac death, cardiac arrhythmias, and heart failure. Dr Laukkanen’s primary goal is to refine cardiovascular risk prediction by identifying clinically relevant risk factors, especially those linked to sudden cardiac death. By enhancing these risk prediction models, his goal is to provide more accurate screening processes, ensuring targeted therapeutic interventions for those identified with a heightened risk of CVD.

He is particularly interested in the inclusion of cardiorespiratory fitness in standard risk prediction panels for CVD risk assessment. He also is deeply passionate about preventive cardiology and is committed to optimizing the identification of populations at an elevated risk, considering inherited, genetic information when available, in addition to common risk factors. This dedication not only aids in the prevention of atherosclerotic CVD but also in reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death. Dr Laukkanen’s dual roles as a clinical cardiologist and cardiovascular epidemiologist allow him to direct research toward contemporary and pertinent topics within cardiovascular medicine.

Additionally, Dr Laukkanen is actively engaged in intervention studies that assess the effects of various physical exercise interventions and comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation on subclinical CVD indicators, such as arterial stiffness. One of his aspirations is to establish comprehensive, multidisciplinary prevention and exercise-based rehabilitation programs tailored for individuals with either inherent or acquired CVD risks.

He has published more than 450 peer-reviewed articles, most of which are prominently featured in esteemed general medicine, cardiology, and epidemiology journals. Several of these published articles are in the public interest and have gained wide coverage in the media. Beyond Dr Laukkanen’s clinical and research expertise, he understands the importance of rigorous statistical analysis and proficient writing, ensuring that every research project meets the highest standards — from data collection to publication. Dr Laukkanen is deeply committed to advancing the field of cardiology, seamlessly integrating clinical practice with pioneering research to drive progress in cardiovascular medicine. He joined the Mayo Clinic Proceedings editorial board in 2023, bringing expertise in cardiovascular diseases and healthy lifestyles.