Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to challenge Europe, but the EU CVH Plan offers a promising framework to combat this crisis. As the leading cause of death, CVD claims one in three lives and accounts for 20% of premature deaths before age 65. With 13 million new cases yearly and costs of €282 billion, urgent action is vital. This article outlines the plan’s potential to improve health outcomes and equity.

The Scale of the Challenge

CVD impacts millions across Europe, straining healthcare systems and economies. Beyond clinical effects, it disrupts lives and productivity. Notably, one million fatal CVD events could be prevented in a decade with better risk management. Thus, a coordinated response is essential to address this burden.

Core Strategies of the EU CVH Plan

The EU CVH Plan focuses on four key areas to tackle CVD effectively.

1. Prevention and Early Detection: First, it prioritises health checks in primary care for adults over 40. These target risk factors like high cholesterol and hypertension. Moreover, immunisation against infections such as influenza can cut CVD deaths by 33%. This approach aims to catch issues early and save lives.
2. Enhancing Care and Management: Next, a network of excellence centres across Member States is proposed. This would standardise care and reduce disparities. Also, tackling non-adherence, which affects over 60% of patients and costs €80-125 billion yearly, is crucial. Improved adherence can enhance outcomes significantly.
3. Driving Research and Innovation: Furthermore, the plan seeks to boost CVD research, which only comprised 4% of clinical trials from 2017 to 2022. By streamlining regulations and funding, it aims to reverse declining investment. This could accelerate new treatments and address unmet needs.
4. Embracing Digital Solutions: Finally, digital tools can bridge gaps in care and workforce shortages. Scaling initiatives within the European Health Data Space is key. However, barriers like data privacy and literacy must be overcome to maximise impact under the EU CVH Plan.

Recommendations for Stakeholders

• Adopt EU Council Recommendations for health checks by 2030.
• Secure funding for prevention and digital health tools.
• Focus on equity to address socioeconomic disparities.
• Support research with public-private partnerships.

Conclusion

In summary, the EU CVH Plan stands as a critical strategy to lessen CVD’s toll in Europe. By focusing on prevention, care, innovation, and technology, it promises better health for millions. Stakeholders must act now to turn this vision into reality. Let’s build a healthier future together.

Source

Prevention, early detection and intervention: how the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan could transform health in Europe [Internet]. [cited 2025 Sep 15]. Available from: https://www.efpia.eu/news-events/the-efpia-view/statements-press-releases/prevention-early-detection-and-intervention-how-the-eu-cardiovascular-health-plan-could-transform-health-in-europe/.