Rohan D’Souza Honoured with Prestigious CPP2025 Award for Exceptional Contributions to Maternal Cardiovascular Health

Rohan D’Souza, associate professor in the departments of Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, has been named co-recipient – alongside Katherine Arendt – of the CPP2025 Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Field of Pregnancy and Heart Disease. He will accept the award at the 9th International Congress on Cardiac Problems in Pregnancy (CPP 2025), held in Vienna from April 24–27, 2025.
The CPP2025 Award is an internationally recognized honour, celebrating researchers whose work significantly improves clinical practice, informs healthcare policies, and advances patient outcomes related to heart disease in pregnancy. D’Souza’s research has significantly influenced clinical management and enhanced understanding of cardiovascular conditions affecting pregnant individuals worldwide.
D’Souza, who holds a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Maternal Health, leads the Family-Oriented and service User centred Research on pregnancy Health (FLOURISH) group at McMaster University. FLOURISH is a clinical research initiative focused on enhancing pregnancy and postpartum outcomes through family-centred approaches. Among FLOURISH’s notable projects is the Canadian Network of Networks to Reduce Cardiovascular Mortality and Morbidity in Pregnancy (CaNCaM-Preg). Recently awarded $5 million through the Research Networks of Excellence in Heart and Brain Health grant – supported by Heart & Stroke, Brain Canada, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research – Institute of Gender and Health – CaNCaM-Preg addresses critical cardiovascular health challenges in pregnancy through interdisciplinary collaboration.
“This recognition resonates deeply because it acknowledges research rooted in real-world experiences,” says D’Souza. “Each advancement we have achieved stems from genuinely listening to patients and addressing their needs through evidence-based and compassionate care.”
“Our ultimate goal is tangible, meaningful improvement,” he adds. “This award reinforces our determination to confront existing challenges, innovate solutions, and significantly enhance maternal cardiovascular health globally.”