Where the human soul is located. A famous surgeon gave an unexpected answer.

In an interview with the journalists of “Izvestia,” the outstanding physician shared his reflections on the secrets of professional longevity, the importance of family well‑being, as well as addressed topics such as his difficult war‑time childhood, his opinion of Stalin, the influence of romantic feelings on health, and the potential danger of excessive coffee consumption.

The cardiologist categorically rejects the notion of professional burnout, despite his extremely busy work schedule.

“I am completely unfamiliar with this condition. Every day we perform several of the most complex open‑heart surgeries, five days a week. Our methods are the most advanced and time‑tested,” – emphasized Leo Bokeria.

On harmful habits he stated:

“There is no point in excessive coffee consumption. Of course, one or two cups per day are quite acceptable for a healthy person.”

Speaking about strong feelings, the doctor confirmed the positive effect of being in love on the body:

“The surge of hormones and a short‑term rise in blood pressure have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system.”

Comparing the Russian and Western levels of medicine, Bokeria noted that domestic clinics are not inferior to their American counterparts.

“Thanks to modern equipment and a strong medical school,” – he explained.

He added that the fee‑for‑service model in the United States forces Americans to seek medical help less often, which negatively affects outcomes.

The cardio surgeon recalled how his predecessor Vladimir Burakovskiy lobbied with Boris Yeltsin for his appointment. Bokeria also stressed the importance of medical ethics and the inadmissibility of hiding medical errors, which, he said, has been completely eradicated within their team.

A key topic was the prevention of sudden cardiac death. The doctor strongly recommends that people over 40–45 undergo regular check‑ups: “Even in the complete absence of symptoms, diagnostics can detect problems at an early stage.”

In his view, the main warning sign is chest pain radiating to the scapula.

Recalling his childhood in Georgia during wartime years, Bokeria spoke warmly about times of strict austerity. Evaluating political figures, he expressed admiration for Joseph Stalin, calling him a “genius leader who strengthened the country.”

Reflecting on the soul, the cardio surgeon suggested its connection with the circulatory system as the most complex and mysterious mechanism supplying every cell. Concluding the conversation, Leo Bokeria described himself as a happy person, stressing that the basis of a strong and long‑lasting marriage is “mutual understanding and sincerity,” RIA Tvoi Novosti reports.