Brussels, 29/09/2024 – On World Heart Day 2024, the European Heart Network (EHN) renews its call for decisive EU-level action to tackle cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death across Europe.
Cardiovascular Disease: A Critical Public Health Challenge
CVD causes nearly 4 million deaths annually in Europe and places an economic burden of €282 billion on the EU each year. EHN CEO Birgit Beger emphasised, “Cardiovascular disease is a crisis we cannot afford to ignore. A comprehensive EU Cardiovascular Health Plan is urgently needed to reduce preventable deaths and ensure equitable access to care for all citizens.”
EHN’s Commitment to Advancing Cardiovascular Health Policy
Through its advocacy efforts and leadership in the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH), EHN is dedicated to championing the establishment of an EU Cardiovascular Health Plan. This plan aims to enhance prevention, early detection, investment in cardiovascular disease (CVD) research, and access to high-quality care, addressing the urgent health challenges faced by millions of people across Europe. The current Commissioner for Health, Stella Kyriakides, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to combating non-communicable diseases by prioritising preventive health measures and working to reduce health inequalities across the Union.
A Timely Appointment: Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi
The recent appointment of Olivér Várhelyi as the new EU Health Commissioner presents an opportunity for renewed attention on public health priorities. In his mission letter from President Ursula von der Leyen, he is tasked with commitments to prevent non-communicable diseases and to promote a coordinated approach to addressing cardiovascular diseases and mental health. While his objectives resonate with many of EHN’s goals—especially in advocating for preventive health and reducing health inequalities—EHN will closely monitor how these commitments are translated into actionable policies and sustained focus on improving cardiovascular health across Europe.
EHN President Charmaine Griffiths commented, “As the leading cause of death in Europe, cardiovascular disease cannot be sidelined any longer. Commissioner Várhelyi’s commitment to non-communicable diseases offers a chance to turn the tide, but we need decisive action to make this a reality. Millions of lives are at stake, and the time to act is now.”
Discover more about EHN’s World Heart Day 2024 activities and explore the resources available for this campaign.
For enquiries, contact: Alessandra Boschi at the European Heart Network: aboschi@ehnheart.org or +32 2 512 91 74