Despite significant advancements in diagnosis and interventional treatments in today's world, cardiovascular diseases continue to be a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide and in our country. Lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, and regular exercise programs that aim to prevent cardiac events and mitigate the progression of the diseases when they occur are widely recommended today. The benefits of regular physical activity greatly surpass the potential risks. Therefore, not only healthy individuals but also those with cardiovascular diseases are encouraged to engage in appropriate physical activities.

This book, prepared under the guidance of Department of Cardiology at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Cardiology Institute and with the support of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Rectorate, has been complemented by contributions from our esteemed colleagues, who are members of some of our country's distinguished institutions. This book (Sports Cardiology and Cardiovascular Diseases), along with the book 'Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes (A Guide for Those Continuing or Considering Sports; Editor: Prof. Dr. Mustafa Yıldız, 2021), which is a first of its kind in our country, will contribute to significant advancements in the field of Sports Cardiology. It will help address many issues in the field and serve as a valuable resource.

With our gratitude to all our colleagues and institutions who provided their unwavering support in the preparation of this book, and to the administrators and staff of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa and Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa Cardiology Institute, institutions we have always been proud to be a part of.

Prof. Dr. Mustafa YILDIZ