The internationally-known cardiologist, Majdi Yaqoub, is a name that Arabs in general and Egyptians in particular are proud to mention. Though he is world-famous because of his skill, knowledge and ability, he still retains his modesty, sense of humor and his basic simplicity. An appointment with him was not easy to get as he is constantly on the move; his younger brother, Yousef Yaqoub who is an engineer, helped us to coordinate by letting us know when he would be in Egypt.

Following is a portion of the interview:

What led you to specialize in cardiology?

I had a much-loved aunt who died when she was only 22 because of heart disease. I was very attached to her and decided I wanted to help people with cardiac problems.

What was her problem and would you have been able to help her today?

Her problem had to do with the valves of her heart. Today she could have been treated and probably helped but in those days, the treatment wasn’t available.

What about your parents and siblings?

My father (may he rest in peace) Habib Yaqoub was an investigative doctor so we moved around from one city to another. His last position was as a health director in a town 50 km south of Cairo. He certainly influenced me to study medicine. My mother was a housewife and she lives in Cairo; I must say, I don’t like the media bothering her. There were four children — I am the third. My older brother, Jamal is dead (may he rest in peace); he was a bone specialist. My sister was formerly a teacher at the American School before leaving to take care of her home and children. My younger brother is a mechanical engineer. Every year I come to Egypt to work, visit my mother, my brother and sister and their families.

What about your own wife and children? Was your marriage based on love?

Yes, it was. Marianne, my German assistant, and I fell in love. We married and have three children — Andrew is a pilot, Liza is a specialist who helps me in my work and Sophie is a doctor specializing in tropical medicine. Between us, there are bonds of deep friendship and love.

How do you deal with fatigue?

I escape by means of music, reading and swimming. Also by spending time with my family and with close friends with whom I am comfortable and at ease.

Have you ever operated on a relative or a member of your family?

No, I haven’t. It’s better for a doctor not to do this. Of course, if we were alone in a desert or some isolated place and there was no choice, then obviously I would operate.

Do you know how many heart operations you have performed?

The latest estimate is between 30,000 and 40,000.

What about the time for a heart operation?

Anywhere from 3 up to 15 hours.

You’re known for your successful operations on children’s hearts. What was the age of the youngest child you have every operated on?

A boy who was only 6 hours old. There was a prenatal diagnosis made with an ultrasound and when the child was born, we were ready to operate. This kind of operation, by the way, has been done a number of times.

Are there professions in which people are more prone to cardiac problems and diseases than others?

Yes, there are; jobs that involve a lot of stress and pressure often cause cardiac problem. It is hard, however, to name specific jobs since so many of them can cause the symptoms which lead to cardiac disorders.

Are we living in the age of ‘heart disease’?

Yes, heart disease is the plague of our modern age. All over the world, the number of people with heart disease is on the increase.

Do you think a doctor should be frank with patients about their condition?

I feel that it’s very important for patients to understand what is happening and what is likely to happen. If they are mature adults, knowing the facts should commit them to maintaining their health. The doctor can advise but there are things that remain the patient’s responsibility.

What about a heart surgeon retiring?

As long as the surgeon is physically and mentally able and alert, why retire? I work in England, and it’s a country that respects the law. Though I a past 65, I’m still working as a consultant. I work at the university, performing surgery and doing research.

How do you feel about organ transplants?

I am strongly in favor of them. They mean saving lives; unfortunately, many people die every day because their countries’ laws don’t permit transplants. It’s of vital importance that the matter be discussed and considered by medical specialists, religious scholars and and opinion-makers. Most people don’t think much about the importance of trasnplants until the issue actually touches them or someone close to them.

How can a person take care of his heart?

First of all, do not smoke. Eat plenty of vegetables and fish. Exercise regularly — swim, walk, jog: do something that you enjoy.

Has technology had an influence on people’s hearts?

If you mean has technology made life easier and made us lazier about taking physical exercise, then yes, technology has had a bad influence on the heart.

What kind of art appeals most to your own heart?

Classical music: I can’t live without it. It gives me great joy and gives me hope for a better future.

What about prizes and honors you have won?

I don’t think about them. The greatest prize of all is to operate successfully on a child’s heart.