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# European Heart Network

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://ehnheart.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Pages

- [Home](https://ehnheart.org/) - We are the European Heart Network We play a leading role in the prevention and reduction of cardiovascular diseases, in particular heart disease and stroke. EHN Strategic Plan 2023-2030 Europe's Cardiovascular Health Opportunities: Leadership for Change Discover our new Strategic Plan EHN Members EHN has members across Europe. EHN members are national heart foundations and
- [The Board](https://ehnheart.org/who-we-are/board/) - The Board EHN is governed by a Board that, according to its statutes, can comprise no fewer than three and no more than eight member organisations. The Board meets four times a year to provide policy, political and procedural direction on behalf of the members. Costs involved in the board meetings are covered by the
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2026](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/ehn-annual-workshop-2026/) - EHN Annual Workshop 2026 The Hague, The Netherlands 29-30 October 2026 Hosted by the the Dutch Heart Foundation Registration Form View Draft Programme Participation The EHN Annual Workshop 2026 will take place on 29–30 October 2026 at the premises of the Dutch Heart Foundation (DHF) in The Hague, with the possibility to join online (hybrid
- [Support the dissemination of the HYPERMARKER patient survey](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/support-the-dissemination-of-the-hypermarker-patient-survey/) - Researchers at University Medical Center Utrecht have launched a survey as part of the Europe-wide HYPERMARKER project to better understand the views of people living with hypertension or increased cardiovascular risk on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and personal health data in healthcare. As an EHN Member Organisation, your support is essential in helping
- [EHN response to the consultation on the ERA4Health Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-consultation-on-the-era4health-strategic-research-and-innovation-agenda/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted its contribution to the consultation on the updated Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) of the European Partnership ERA4Health, which will guide future European research priorities and funding in public health and health research. In its response, EHN calls for a stronger focus on population-level prevention and the
- [EHN reaction to the European Parliament's vote on the EU Cardiovascular Diseases Strategy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/ehn-reaction-to-the-european-parliaments-vote-on-the-eu-cardiovascular-diseases-strategy/) - The European Parliament's Committee on Public Health (SANT) has adopted an own-initiative report in response to the European Commission's Safe Hearts Plan. The report, led by MEP Romana Jerković (S&D, Croatia), was approved on 24 June 2026 by 38 votes to 2, with one abstention. A final vote by the European Parliament in plenary is
- [European Parliament rejects ECON report on tobacco taxation following concerns from public health organisations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/european-parliament-rejects-econ-report-on-tobacco-taxation/) - The European Parliament has rejected the proposed legislative report on the revision of the Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD), following a plenary vote in Strasbourg on 17 June. The report, prepared by the Parliament's Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON), was voted down after widespread concerns from the public health community that it reflected long-standing
- [New AI4HF podcast episodes explore patient perspectives on trustworthy AI in heart failure care](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/new-ai4hf-podcast-episodes-explore-patient-perspectives-on-trustworthy-ai-in-heart-failure-care/) - How can Artificial Intelligence support people living with heart failure in ways that truly matter to patients? Two new episodes of the HFA Cardio Talk podcast, produced as part of the AI4HF Horizon Europe project, explore this question through conversations with patient advocates about the opportunities, challenges and future of AI in healthcare. Hosted by
- [EHN AI Community of Practice – Member Hub](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-ai-community-of-practice-member-hub/) - The European Heart Network’s (EHN) AI Community of Practice (CoP) is a new initiative designed to bring together members who are interested in the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence presents for cardiovascular health. By joining, members have the opportunity to share experiences, explore emerging trends, and discuss the ethical, policy and practical dimensions of AI in
- [Hypermarker survey: how should AI use your health data? Share your view](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/how-should-ai-use-your-health-data-share-your-view/) - Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly shaping healthcare, from predicting risks to supporting more personalised treatments. But how should health and lifestyle data be used, and what does this mean for privacy, fairness and everyday life? As part of the Hypermarker project, a European survey invites people living with hypertension or increased cardiovascular risk to share
- [2026](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2026-2/) - 2026 Board Meetings 15 April 2026 Agenda Minutes
- [2025](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2025-2/) - 2025 Board Meetings 27 November 2025 Agenda Minutes 1 October 2025 Agenda Minutes 16 June 2025 Agenda Minutes 27 March 2025 Agenda Minutes
- [Board Meetings](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/) - Board Meetings All Board meeting agendas and minutes can be found here by year. Board Meetings 2026 Board Meetings 2025 Board Meetings 2024 Board Meetings 2023 Board Meetings 2022 Board Meetings 2021 Board Meetings 2020 Board Meetings 2019 Board Meetings 2018 Board Meetings 2017 Board Meetings 2016 Board Meetings 2015 Board Meetings 2014 Board Meetings
- [EHN General Assembly 2026](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/ehn-general-assembly-2025-2/) - EHN General Assembly 2026 All information from the 2026 General Assembly can be found here. Agenda Minutes Combined supporting documents file
- [EHN Annual General Assembly](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/) - EHN Annual General Assembly All information from the EHN Annual General Assembly can be found here by year. EHN General Assembly 2026 EHN General Assembly 2025 EHN General Assembly 2024 EHN General Assembly 2023 EHN General Assembly 2022 EHN General Assembly 2021 EHN General Assembly 2020 EHN General Assembly 2019 EHN General Assembly 2018 EHN
- [EHN General Assembly 2025](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/ehn-general-assembly-2025/) - EHN General Assembly 2025 – Stockholm, Sweden All information from the 2025 General Assembly can be found here. Agenda Minutes Combined supporting documents file
- [EHN response to the call for evidence on tobacco products and tobacco advertising](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-call-for-evidence-on-tobacco-products-and-tobacco-advertising/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted its response to the European Commission's call for evidence on the revision of the Tobacco Products Directive and Tobacco Advertising Directive. In its response, EHN stresses that the revised EU tobacco control framework must reflect the rapid evolution of nicotine products and close existing regulatory loopholes. EHN highlights
- [Revision of Television Without Frontiers Directive](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/revision-of-television-without-frontiers-directive/) - Submission on behalf of the EHN in the context of the review of the 'Television without Frontiers' Directive.
- [Revision of Council Directive 90/496/EEC on Nutrition Labelling](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/revision-of-council-directive-90-496-eec-on-nutrition-labelling/) - Response on behalf of the EHN to a request for information in view of the revision of Council Directive 90/496/EEC on Nutrition Labelling.
- [AI Powered Data Curation and Publishing Virtual Assistant (AIDAVA)](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/current-projects/ai-powered-data-curation-and-publishing-virtual-assistant-aidava/) - AI Powered Data Curation and Publishing Virtual Assistant (AIDAVA) AIDAVA is a four-year project mainly funded by the Horizon Europe programme coordinated by the Universiteit Maastricht. Integrated, high-quality personal health data (PHD) represents a potential wealth of knowledge for healthcare systems, but there is no reliable conduit for this data to become interoperable, AI-ready and
- [AtheroNET Cost Action](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/current-projects/atheronet-cost-action/) - AtheroNET COST Action The latest epidemiological data suggest that cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are still the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In order to improve CVD outcomes, we need new strategies that incorporate the complex interplay of different driving forces behind atherosclerosis pathophysiology in addition to the traditional risk factors. AtheroNET aims to consolidate
- [Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence for Personalised Risk Assessment in Chronic Heart Failure (AI4HF)](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/current-projects/trustworthy-artificial-intelligence-for-personalised-risk-assessment-in-chronic-heart-failure-ai4hf/) - Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence for Personalised Risk Assessment in Chronic Heart Failure (AI4HF) AI4HF is a 4-year Horizon Europe project that aims to co-design, develop, evaluate and exploit an integrative and trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI) solution for personalised heart failure (HF) risk assessment. The largest-ever dataset of heart failure patients will be harnessed to develop the
- [Cities@Heart](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/prevention-projects/citiesheart/) - Cities@Heart Project Overview Cities@Heart is a five‑year project mainly funded by the Horizon Europe programme. It focuses on obesity, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and diabetes as key drivers of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and aims to address them through citizen engagement and empowerment and involves the municipalities of Izmir (TR), Belfast (NI), Łódź (PL), Cork (IE), Udine (IT), Birmingham
- [HYPERMARKER](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/current-projects/hypermarker/) - HYPERMARKER HYPERMARKER is a four-year international research project that received a 10 million euro grant from Horizon Europe and UK Research and Innovation. Starting in January 2023, the project aims to unleash the potential of pharmacometabolics to provide 'smart' prescription of antihypertensive therapy, based on large-scale cohorts from 11 European countries, with validation in a
- [Call for evidence on EU tobacco rules: contribute to the EHN response](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/public-consultation-on-eu-tobacco-rules-opportunity-to-contribute/) - The European Commission has launched a public consultation on the revision of the Tobacco Products Directive and Tobacco Advertising Directive, alongside a call for evidence published on 18 May. The initiative is part of the upcoming revision of EU tobacco control legislation and aims to address new market developments, including vaping, nicotine products and evolving
- [Thank you to our members for a successful 2026 Annual General Assembly](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/thank-you-to-our-members-for-a-successful-2026-annual-general-assembly/) - On 21 May, EHN members came together online for the 2026 Annual General Assembly. We would like to warmly thank all members who participated in the meeting and contributed to the discussions on EHN's priorities, governance and future direction. The Assembly approved all agenda items by an overwhelming majority, including the Annual Report, audited accounts,
- [Tobacco Control Scale 2025: How Does Your Country Measure Up?](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/tobacco-control-scale-2025-how-does-your-country-measure-up/) - The Tobacco Control Scale (TCS) 2025 was launched in May at the European Conference on Tobacco Control and Health (ECToH) in Milan, providing an updated assessment of tobacco control policies across 37 European countries. Widely used by researchers and policymakers since 2006, the Scale ranks countries based on the implementation of evidence-based tobacco control measures.
- [Joint Letter: Health Organisations Express Concern Over EU Tobacco Tax Directive Negotiations](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/joint-letter-health-organisations-express-concern-over-eu-tobacco-tax-directive-negotiations/) - The European Heart Network (EHN), together with a broad coalition of European and national public health and civil society organisations, has signed a joint letter to the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union expressing concern over the current direction of negotiations on the revision of the EU Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD). The
- [Joint Letter: Health Organisations Urge Stronger EU Action on Youth Nicotine Addiction](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/joint-letter-health-organisations-urge-stronger-eu-action-on-youth-nicotine-addiction/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has joined more than 80 European and international public health organisations in signing an open letter calling for stronger European Union action to address youth nicotine addiction. The coalition urges policymakers to strengthen prevention and protection measures, close regulatory loopholes and ensure that all nicotine products are covered by a
- [WHO Adopts First-Ever Global Resolution on Stroke](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/who-adopts-first-ever-global-resolution-on-stroke/) - The 79th World Health Assembly (WHA) has adopted the first-ever resolution on stroke, titled Reducing the burden of stroke: strengthening prevention, acute care, rehabilitation and health-system readiness. Approved on 22 May 2026, the resolution marks a major milestone in global efforts to tackle one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. According to
- [Belgium Announces Ban on Flavoured Vapes from 2028](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/belgium-announces-ban-on-flavoured-vapes-from-2028/) - Belgium’s federal government has approved a ban on flavoured vapes, allowing only tobacco-flavoured and unflavoured e-cigarettes to remain on the market from September 2028. The measure, announced by Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke, aims to curb youth nicotine addiction and protect young people from the growing appeal of vaping products. “With their attractive flavours, vapes are
- [European Heart Network appoints Hans Snijder as new President](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-heart-network-appoints-hans-snijder-as-new-president/) - Brussels, 27 May 2026 — The European Heart Network (EHN) has elected Hans Snijder, Chief Executive Officer of the Dutch Heart Foundation, as its new President, marking a new chapter for the organisation and its work on cardiovascular health across Europe. His appointment was officially confirmed during the EHN Annual General Assembly. Hans Snijder succeeds
- [German Heart Foundation appoints Friso Janßen as new Managing Director](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/german-heart-foundation-appoints-friso-jansen-as-new-managing-director/) - The European Heart Network welcomes the appointment of Friso Janßen as the new Managing Director of the German Heart Foundation (Deutsche Herzstiftung). Janßen succeeds Martin Vestweber, who led the organisation for more than two decades and and served as an EHN Board Member since 2013, most recently as Vice President. With a background in healthcare
- [EHN response to the public consultation on cardiovascular health checks](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-public-consultation-on-cardiovascular-health-checks/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has contributed to the European Commission’s public consultation on the proposed Council Recommendation on cardiovascular health checks. In its response, EHN welcomes the initiative’s ambition to strengthen prevention, early detection and equitable access to cardiovascular care across Europe through evidence-based, population-level screening approaches. EHN highlights the importance of early and
- [German Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/german-heart-foundationa/) - German Heart Foundation The Deutsche Herzstiftung e.V. - founded in 1979 - today, is the largest, non-profit, independent contact point for patients and those interested in cardiovascular diseases. Together with heart specialists and supported by a wide range of voluntary commitments, it provides information on the prevention, detection and treatment of heart diseases. The Deutsche Herzstiftung e.V.
- [EHN Members](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/) - EHN Members EHN counts 30 members across 27 European countries. EHN members are national heart foundations and associations committed to preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Europe, supporting patients, representing patient interests and funding research. Discover EHN members representing patients Please click on the list below to see the full details of the member organisations.
- [Patients call for trust, transparency and stronger involvement in the European Health Data Space](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/patients-call-for-trust-transparency-and-stronger-involvement-in-the-european-health-data-space/) - On 15 April 2026, the European Heart Network (EHN) organised a high-level patient workshop at the European Parliament, hosted by MEP Aurelijus Veryga (ECR, Lithuania) and supported by the EU-funded project AIDAVA. The event brought together patients, policymakers, researchers and stakeholders to discuss data quality, trust and transparency within the European Health Data Space (EHDS),
- [EHN response to the public consultation on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD)](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-public-consultation-on-the-audiovisual-media-services-directive-avmsd/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has contributed to the European Commission’s public consultation on the evaluation and revision of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD). In its response, EHN emphasised the need to strengthen the protection of public health, particularly for children and young people, in the evolving digital media landscape. EHN highlighted key priorities
- [UK Tobacco and Vapes Act becomes law](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/uk-tobacco-and-vapes-act-becomes-law/) - On 29 April, the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill received Royal Assent, marking a major milestone in tobacco control and public health policy. The new law introduces a “smoke-free generation” by banning the sale of tobacco to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009. It also includes measures to regulate vaping products, with powers
- [Evaluation of the legislative framework for tobacco control: progress made, gaps remain](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/evaluation-of-the-legislative-framework-for-tobacco-control/) - On 2 April, the European Commission published its evaluation of the EU tobacco control framework, assessing the effectiveness, efficiency and relevance of the Tobacco Products Directive and the Tobacco Advertising Directive in protecting public health and ensuring the smooth functioning of the internal market. The report highlights that EU tobacco control measures have contributed to
- [EHN Annual Report 2025: Deadline for contributions extended](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-annual-report-2025-deadline-for-contributions-extended/) - The deadline to submit contributions for the EHN Annual Report 2025 has been extended to 7 May 2026. Once again, we invite EHN members to share one of their most impactful activities from 2025 for inclusion in this year’s report. Contributions should be 150–200 words and focus on a significant project or initiative related to
- [Event: Making the case for NCD prevention – A new simulation tool from Sweden](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/event-making-the-case-for-ncd-prevention-a-new-simulation-tool-from-sweden/) - 17 June 2026, 11:00–12:00 CEST | Online webinar The European Heart Network is pleased to share this invitation from the Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation and partners to an upcoming webinar introducing NCDSim, a new Swedish simulation tool. Following a well-attended side event at the fourth High-level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health in September
- [Join us for the EHN Annual General Assembly](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/join-us-for-the-ehn-annual-general-assembly/) - EHN members are warmly invited to join the European Heart Network Annual General Assembly, taking place online on Thursday 21 May 2026, 14:00–15:00 CEST. The meeting will open with an overview of key developments, including the EU Safe Hearts Plan, followed by important governance items such as the approval of the 2025 Annual Report and
- [Young Hearts at European Youth Week: engaging youth in shaping cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/young-hearts-at-european-youth-week-engaging-youth-in-shaping-cardiovascular-health/) - EHN’s Young Hearts was featured at the European Commission Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety event marking European Youth Week at the European Parliament, contributing to an important discussion on how to strengthen cardiovascular health across Europe. As part of the programme, EHN hosted a session titled “Young hearts, healthy futures: engaging youth in shaping
- [Public consultation on cardiovascular health checks: opportunity to contribute](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/public-consultation-on-cardiovascular-health-checks-opportunity-to-contribute/) - As part of the EU Safe Hearts Plan, the European Commission is preparing a proposal for a Council Recommendation to support Member States in implementing cardiovascular health checks. Ahead of its publication, expected at the end of the year, the Commission has launched a Call for Evidence and is seeking input from stakeholders across Europe.
- [Cities@Heart - Tackling heart health and inequality in European cities](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/citiesheart-tackling-heart-health-and-inequality-in-european-cities/) - A new public-private collaboration aims to improve urban health and equality by implementing and evaluating evidence-based strategies that improve awareness, prevention, detection and management of cardiovascular disease. Key Takeaways Cardiovascular disease remains a major concern in cities, with poor outcomes and high societal cost often driven by unequal access to healthcare. A pan-European consortium
- [EHN Policy Recommendations: Young Hearts in Action](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/ehn-policy-recommendationsyoung-hearts-in-action/) - Cardiovascular disease is still widely seen as an older person’s condition. Yet across Europe, thousands of young people are living with congenital, inherited, and early-onset cardiovascular diseases (CVD), while navigating education, work, relationships, and major life transitions alongside complex and often lifelong health needs. Young Hearts in Action is a new European Heart Network (EHN)
- [EHN Policy Recommendations: Young Hearts in Action](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/patients/ehn-policy-recommendationsyoung-hearts-in-action/) - Cardiovascular disease is still widely seen as an older person’s condition. Yet across Europe, thousands of young people are living with congenital, inherited, and early-onset cardiovascular diseases (CVD), while navigating education, work, relationships, and major life transitions alongside complex and often lifelong health needs. Young Hearts in Action is a new European Heart Network (EHN)
- [Young Hearts in Action: Turning Europe’s commitment to early CVD prevention into lived reality](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/young-hearts-in-action-turning-europes-commitment-to-early-cvd-prevention-into-lived-reality/) - Cardiovascular disease is still widely seen as an older person’s condition. Yet across Europe, thousands of young people are living with congenital, inherited, and early-onset cardiovascular diseases (CVD), while navigating education, work, relationships, and major life transitions alongside complex and often lifelong health needs. Young Hearts in Action is a new European Heart Network (EHN)
- [CVD Patients](https://ehnheart.org/activities/patients/) - EHN Young Hearts Young people living with cardiovascular disease face distinct and often overlooked challenges, affecting education, work, mental health, and transitions in care. To address this, EHN created Young Hearts, bringing together young people from across Europe to ensure their experiences inform patient-centred policies, research, and healthcare. Young members contribute by sharing their experiences,
- [Young Hearts](https://ehnheart.org/activities/patients/join-the-young-hearts/) - Join EHN Young Hearts – Share Your Story! Are you a young person (ages 16–39) living with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the EU? The European Heart Network (EHN) wants to hear from you! Join EHN Young Hearts and help shape the future of cardiovascular care for young patients. Why Your Voice Matters CVD is often
- [EHN Working Group on the European Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/cvh-plan-working-group/) - EHN Working Group on the European Cardiovascular Health Plan This Working Group supports the implementation of the European Cardiovascular Health Plan (Safe Hearts Plan) by mobilising EHN national members around key priority areas. Through dedicated thematic subgroups, it focuses on advancing public health and population-based prevention of cardiovascular disease, as well as promoting policy measures
- [New report highlights serious cardiovascular risks of binge drinking](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-report-highlights-serious-cardiovascular-risks-of-binge-drinking/) - The recent report “Binge Drinking: Acute Consequences and Lasting Impacts” by Alcohol and Society highlights the significant short- and long-term effects of binge drinking on individuals and society. The report shows that binge drinking is strongly associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. It raises the risk of hypertension, ischemic heart disease, atrial fibrillation, cardiomyopathy,
- [Circulatory diseases remain leading cause of death in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/circulatory-diseases-remain-leading-cause-of-death-in-the-eu/) - According to new data published by Eurostat, circulatory diseases remained the leading cause of death in the EU in 2023, accounting for 1.59 million deaths (32.8% of all deaths). Cancer (23.9%) and respiratory diseases (7.8%) were the second and third leading causes. In total, 4.84 million deaths were recorded across the EU. The highest death
- [ECDA Joint letter: Updating the Tobacco Taxation Directive is both a public health and an economic imperative](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ecda-joint-letter-updating-the-tobacco-taxation-directive-is-both-a-public-health-and-an-economic-imperative/) - Ahead of the ECOFIN Council meeting on 10 March, the European Heart Network (EHN), as a member of the European Chronic Disease Alliance (ECDA), supported a joint letter calling for an ambitious revision of the EU Tobacco Taxation Directive. The letter underlines that tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of death in Europe, responsible
- [Tobacco Industry Lobby Infiltrates Advisory Process on EU Tobacco Tax Directive](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/tobacco-industry-lobby-infiltrates-advisory-process-on-eu-tobacco-tax-directive/) - The European Heart Network (EHN), together with 15 European health organisations, has raised concerns about tobacco industry influence in the revision of the EU Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD). A recent opinion by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) echoes long-standing tobacco industry arguments and presents potential conflicts of interest, risking to weaken effective taxation
- [Joint letter: Food as a Strategic Sector – Strengthening EU Commitment to Sustainable Food Procurement](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/joint-letter-food-as-a-strategic-sector-strengthening-eu-commitment-to-sustainable-food-procurement/) - Ahead of the first “Food Dialogue” on 5 March, hosted by the European Commission and focusing on public procurement, the European Heart Network (EHN) joined partners in the EU Food Policy Coalition in a joint letter to Commissioners Stéphane Séjourné, Christophe Hansen and Olivér Várhelyi. The letter calls on the Commission to unlock the transformative
- [Call for nominations: World Heart Federation Board elections 2026](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/call-for-nominations-world-heart-federation-board-elections-2026/) - The World Heart Federation (WHF) has launched its call for nominations for the 2026 Board elections (2027–2028 term). Positions open for nomination include President-Elect, Vice President-Elect, Treasurer, and up to six At-Large Board Members. The WHF Nominating Committee aims to ensure a balanced and diverse Board, reflecting the Federation’s global membership in terms of expertise,
- [FILTERED Advocacy Toolkit on Pro-Health Taxes](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/filtered-advocacy-toolkit-on-pro-health-taxes/) - Pro-health taxes, applied to products such as tobacco, alcohol and sugary drinks, are among the most effective policy tools to reduce consumption of harmful products, prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and generate public revenue. When well designed, these taxes not only improve population health but also provide governments with resources that can be reinvested in healthcare,
- [EHN response to the open consultation on EU medical devices reform](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-open-consultation-on-eu-medical-devices-reform/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) responded to the European Commission’s open consultation on the proposed revision of the EU Medical Devices Regulation (MDR) and In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR). EHN welcomed the proposal’s objective to accelerate patient access to safe and effective medical devices while reducing unnecessary administrative burden. In its response, EHN highlighted key
- [Empowering Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: EHN Hosts First Patient Advocacy Workshop](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/empowering-patients-with-cardiovascular-disease-ehn-hosts-first-patient-advocacy-workshop/) - On 5 December 2024, the European Heart Network (EHN) held its inaugural Patient Advocacy Workshop in Brussels, bringing together cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients and patient representatives from across Europe. This event marked a significant milestone in EHN’s mission to empower patients to actively participate in shaping health policies that address their needs and perspectives. The
- [CVD Research](https://ehnheart.org/activities/research/) - Research Research funding for CVD About one-third of EHN Members fund CVD research, with a combined annual contribution of €180 million. This is a significant contribution, keeping in mind that between 2014 and 2018, the EU spent €458 million to fund research projects on CVD under Horizon 2020. EHN members’ research spending covers a large spectrum
- [Secretariat](https://ehnheart.org/who-we-are/secretariat/) - Secretariat The EHN Secretariat is based in Brussels, Belgium. This dynamic international team executes EHN's strategy, operations and activities, and works to support and inform its national members. Birgit Beger (She/Her) Chief Executive Officer bbeger[at]ehnheart.org+32 2 512 06 14 Read bio Birgit Beger is the CEO of the European Heart Network (EHN). A well-respected senior executive
- [Italian Heart Foundation-ETS](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/italian-heart-foundation/) - Italian Heart Foundation-ETS The Italian Heart Foundation-ETS, founded in 1990 as spin-off of Giovanni Lorenzini Foundation-Medical Science Foundation, is a legally recognized non-profit organization that focus its activities on promoting the culture and understanding of prevention as a value not only for the health of each individual but also for public Health System. The
- [EHN welcomes Member States’ call to reinstate operating grants for health NGOs under EU4Health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-welcomes-member-states-call-to-reinstate-operating-grants-for-health-ngos-under-eu4health/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the initiative by a coalition of 13 EU Member States calling on the European Commission to reinstate operating grants for health non-governmental organisations (NGOs) under the EU4Health programme. In a non-paper led by France and supported by Austria, Belgium, Estonia, Greece, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia and
- [Romanian Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/romanian-heart-foundation/) - Romanian Heart Foundation The Romanian Heart Foundation was founded by 1000 Romanian cardiologists, members of the Romanian Society of Cardiology. The objective of the Foundation was to implement the national strategy for cardiovascular disease prevention and support health awareness campaigns for the Romanian public. Shortly after being established, in May 2010, the Romania Heart Foundation
- [EU Safe Hearts Plan: A Milestone for Cardiovascular Health Policy](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/eu-safe-hearts-plan-cardiovascular-policy/) - Brussels, 16 December 2025 It is finally here. The long-awaited result of years of tireless advocacy and collaboration among national and European public health stakeholders, spanning civil society and patient representative organisations, as well as research and industry partners. For the first time, the European Union has put forward a coordinated, structured and strategic response
- [Recommendations for EU-wide Cardiometabolic Health Checks](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/recommendations-for-eu-wide-cardiometabolic-health-checks/) - Over recent months, EHN has contributed to a dedicated task force led by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), bringing together organisations representing diabetes, kidney disease, obesity, and the wider cardiometabolic community. The group has developed a proposed definition for an EU Cardiometabolic Health Check. The proposal sets out a realistic minimum standard that all
- [HMA/EMA AI Multi-Stakeholder Workshop – Report Now Available](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/hma-ema-ai-multi-stakeholder-workshop-report-now-available/) - In November 2025, EHN Project Officer Gregorio Sambataro participated in the HMA/EMA AI Multi-Stakeholder Workshop, which brought together regulators, industry, healthcare professionals, and patient representatives to discuss the use of artificial intelligence in medicines regulation. The workshop report has now been published, summarising key discussions on opportunities, challenges, and governance considerations for AI in the
- [EIWH Launches Report Calling for an EU Strategy for Women’s Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eiwh-launches-report-calling-for-an-eu-strategy-for-womens-health/) - The European Institute of Women’s Health (EIWH), an EACH Partner, has launched the report “Towards an EU Strategy for Women’s Health,” endorsed by 50 organisations. EHN is pleased to support this initiative and has added its signature to the report. The publication highlights persistent gender gaps in health research, diagnosis, care pathways, and outcomes. It
- [Call for Member Feedback: European Commission Consultation on the AVMSD](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/call-for-member-feedback-european-commission-consultation-on-the-revision-of-the-audiovisual-media-services-directive-avmsd/) - The European Commission has opened a public consultation on the revision of the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD), which will remain open until 1 May 2025. The revision is part of the EU Safe Hearts Plan, which foresees an evaluation of the Directive, including rules to protect minors from harmful content, by the end of
- [New Report Calls for Reform of EU Subsidies to Support Healthy, Sustainable Diets](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-report-calls-for-reform-of-eu-subsidies-to-support-healthy-sustainable-diets/) - Foodrise has published a report revealing that a disproportionately large share of EU subsidies continues to support high-emissions meat and dairy production. The report makes the case for reforms to promote healthier and more sustainable diets. EHN also supports a shift towards plant-based diets for improved cardiovascular health. The researchers found that: The EU directed
- [European Parliament Approves “Wine Package”](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/european-parliament-approves-wine-package/) - In June 2025, the European Commission presented a proposal to modernise the EU policy framework for a competitive, resilient, and future-oriented wine sector. One of the key issues addressed was evolving consumer preferences for wines with lower alcohol content. Following a provisional agreement between the EU Council of Ministers and the European Parliament in December
- [JACARDI Publishes Short Guide to Screening](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/jacardi-publishes-short-guide-to-screening/) - JACARDI has released “A Short Guide to Screening for Individuals at Increased Risk of Developing Cardiovascular Diseases and Type 2 Diabetes”, which provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to support the organisation and implementation of effective screening activities across Europe. The document offers an overview of approaches for identifying individuals or population groups at increased risk of
- [New Online Tool Launched: State of Cardiovascular Health in the EU Dashboard](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/new-online-tool-launched-cardiovascular-health-dashboard-a-new-cardiovascular-health-dashboard-has-been-launched-offering-an-interactive-platform-to-visualise-cardiovascular-health-across-the-europ/) - A new interactive tool, the State of Cardiovascular Health in the EU Dashboard, has been launched to provide a comprehensive overview of cardiovascular health across the European Union. The dashboard offers an accessible way to explore cardiovascular disease outcomes, key risk factors, multimorbidity, healthcare quality, and care pathways across all EU Member States, Iceland, and
- [European Parliament pushes for a stronger EU cardiovascular strategy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/european-parliament-pushes-for-a-stronger-eu-cardiovascular-strategy/) - Following the publication of the European Commission’s Safe Hearts Plan in December 2025, the European Parliament’s Committee on Public Health (SANT) discussed its draft report on an EU cardiovascular diseases strategy, led by Rapporteur Romana Jerković, at committee level on 27 January 2026. Compared with the Commission’s Plan, the SANT Committee calls for a bolder
- [New Report Highlights Parallels Between Tobacco and Ultra-Processed Food Industry Tactics](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/new-report-highlights-parallels-between-tobacco-and-ultra-processed-food-industry-tactics/) - A new report titled “From Tobacco to Ultraprocessed Food: How Industry Engineering Fuels the Epidemic of Preventable Disease” has revealed striking similarities between the strategies used by the tobacco industry and those employed by the ultra-processed food (UPF) industry. The findings suggest that both sectors rely on highly engineered products and sophisticated marketing tactics that
- [Alcohol Consumption](https://ehnheart.org/activities/prevention/alcohol-consumption/) - Alcohol Consumption Alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and is responsible for an estimated 50,000 CVD deaths every year in the EU. Despite popular belief, there is no conclusive scientific evidence that low-to-moderate alcohol consumption protects against cardiovascular health. On the contrary, research confirms that even small amounts of alcohol
- [Editorial: Tournée Minérale](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/editorial-tournee-minerale/) - A Heart-Healthy Perspective on Belgium’s Drinking Culture By Rik Vanhoof, General Manager of the Belgian Heart League In Belgium, we take immense pride in our ‘Bourgondische’ lifestyle: a culture of indulgence where life is celebrated around a table filled with fine food and, almost inevitably, alcohol. These celebrations are often punctuated by the sound of
- [EHN Annual Workshop](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/) - EHN Annual Workshops All information from the EHN Annual Workshops can be found here by year. Annual Workshop 2026 Annual Workshop 2025 Annual Workshop 2024 Annual Workshop 2023 Annual Workshop 2022 Annual Workshop 2021 Annual Workshop 2020 Annual Workshop 2019 Annual Workshop 2018 Annual Workshop 2017 Annual Workshop 2016
- [EU Safe Hearts Plan – latest developments](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eu-safe-hearts-plan-latest-developments/) - EHN analysis: what the EU Safe Hearts Plan means in practice The European Commission has published the long-anticipated EU Safe Hearts Plan, setting out a new framework to address cardiovascular disease (CVD) across the EU through prevention, early detection, treatment, digitalisation and research. While most of the proposed measures rely on uptake by Member States
- [Contact us](https://ehnheart.org/contact-us/) - Do you have a question for EHN or a comment on our activities and projects? Please complete the form below.
- [Stroke Action Plan for Europe updated](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/stroke-action-plan-for-europe-updated/) - The updated Stroke Action Plan for Europe (SAP-E), a joint initiative of the European Stroke Organisation (ESO) and the Stroke Alliance for Europe (SAFE), has been published in the European Stroke Journal. The updated Plan: Highlights both progress achieved and persistent gaps in stroke prevention, emergency care, rehabilitation and life after stroke across Europe; Presents
- [UK bans advertising of junk food to protect children’s health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/uk-bans-advertising-of-junk-food-to-protect-childrens-health/) - From 5 January, the United Kingdom will ban advertising for less healthy food and drinks on television before 9pm and online at all times. The measure aims to reduce children’s exposure to unhealthy food marketing, with the government estimating it could prevent around 20,000 cases of childhood obesity and deliver approximately £2 billion in long-term
- [WHO calls on governments to increase taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/who-calls-on-governments-to-increase-taxes-on-sugar-sweetened-beverages/) - The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging governments worldwide to raise taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) as a way to curb consumption and improve global public health. SSBs are a major source of free sugars and are strongly linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Reducing their consumption
- [Advancing Cardiovascular Prevention Through AI: Cypriot Presidency High-Level Policy Event](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/18-february-cypriot-presidency-event-on-ai-and-cardiovascular-health/) - On 18 February 2026, a high-level policy conference on Advancing Prevention and Equity through AI and Digital Transformation will take place in Nicosia, Cyprus, under the auspices of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the EU. The event is organised by the Cyprus Society of Cardiology, with the support of the European Society of
- [GCRFF awards ~US$10 million network grant to SHE-HEALS to investigate how menopause shapes heart health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/gcrff-awards-us10-million-network-grant-to-she-heals-to-investigate-how-menopause-shapes-heart-health/) - A global research programme investigating how menopause influences women’s heart health has been awarded approximately US$10 million through the International Research Challenge on Women’s Cardiovascular Health, led by the Global Cardiovascular Research Funders Forum (GCRFF). The funding will support the SHE-HEALS study, a large international collaboration aiming to transform the prevention of cardiovascular disease in
- [EHN response to the open consultation on the revision of the EU Public Procurement Directives](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-open-consultation-on-the-revision-of-the-eu-public-procurement-directives/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) responded to the European Commission’s open consultation on the revision of the EU Public Procurement Directives. The European Heart Network (EHN) calls for the food sector to be explicitly recognised as a strategic sector in the revision of the EU Public Procurement Directives, enabling health-driven procurement, quality-based awarding and sustainable
- [Danish Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/danish-heart-foundation/) - Danish Heart Foundation The Danish Heart Foundation works to prevent cardiovascular disease. We fund research to improve prevention and treatment. We support patients suffering from heart and circulatory diseases and their families through counselling, information, and health-promoting activities. We promote and represent the interests of heart patients by engaging with government bodies and regulators to
- [EHN Members Representing Patients](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/ehn-members-representing-patients/) - Members Representing Patients
- [Dry January: Clear the Myths](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/dryjanuary/) - Dry January: Clear the Myths Join EHN in calling for prevention policies that recognise alcohol as a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Why it matters Editorial: Alcohol, myths, and the cost we ignore Policy action Evidence Sign the Alcohol and CVD Pledge Why Dry January matters for cardiovascular health Dry January is widely
- [Editorial: Why Dry January matters for your heart](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/editorial-why-dry-january-matters-for-your-heart/) - Dry January offers the perfect moment to clear the myths around alcohol and cardiovascular health By Hans Snijder, CEO of the Dutch Heart Foundation and EHN Board Member Too many people still believe that a glass of red wine a day is good for your heart. It is said to dilate the blood vessels, allowing
- [Dry January: Sign the Alcohol & CVD Pledge](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/dryjanuary/dry-january-sign-the-alcohol-cvd-pledge/) - Sign the Alcohol & CVD Pledge In June 2025, the European Heart Network (EHN) published its position paper on the impact of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular disease (CVD). This comprehensive paper challenges long-held beliefs and provides a critical overview of the latest evidence on alcohol and cardiovascular health. Despite widespread public perception, there is no
- [World Heart Day: Sign the Alcohol & CVD Pledge](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/world-heart-day-2025/sign-the-alcohol-cvd-pledge/) - Sign the Alcohol & CVD Pledge In June 2025, the European Heart Network (EHN) published its position paper on the impact of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular disease (CVD). This comprehensive paper challenges long-held beliefs and provides a critical overview of the latest evidence on alcohol and cardiovascular health. Despite widespread public perception, there is no
- [EHN Campaigns](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/) - EHN Campaigns At the European Heart Network (EHN), we run impactful campaigns to raise awareness and advocate for policies that promote cardiovascular health across Europe. Our initiatives engage policymakers, CVD patient advocates, and the public to drive meaningful change in preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Explore EHN Campaigns Dry January: Clear the Myths Dry
- [EHN signs joint letter supporting Norway’s ban on marketing unhealthy food to children](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-signs-joint-letter-supporting-norways-ban-on-marketing-unhealthy-food-to-children/) - The European Heart Network (EHN), alongside 22 other public health organisations, signed a joint letter supporting Norway’s evidence-based regulation to ban the marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to children under the age of 18. The letter commends Norway’s leadership in prioritising children’s health and rights, in line with the UN Convention on the Rights
- [Alliances](https://ehnheart.org/network/alliances/) - Alliances EHN works in alliance and cooperation with other public health organisations. European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health The European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) brings together leading European and international organisations with the aim to promote cardiovascular health as a policy priority at EU level. The Alliance provides a platform to aggregate knowledge and expertise
- [Prevention Projects](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/prevention-projects/) - Prevention Projects EHN is actively involved in EU-funded initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through prevention, advocacy, and promoting health equity. Below are the projects that reflect EHN’s commitment to prevention: Cities@Heart Cities@Heart is a five-year Horizon Europe–funded project in which seven European cities collaborate to improve cardiovascular health and urban
- [EHN response to the call for feedback on  the Audiovisual Media Services Directive](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-call-for-feedback-on-the-audiovisual-media-services-directive/) - The European Heart Network has submitted its response to the European Commission’s call for feedback on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD), addressing the regulation of marketing practices that harm cardiovascular health. In its submission, EHN stresses that current EU action on harmful marketing remains insufficient and overly reliant on voluntary measures, which have failed
- [Five decisive actions to transform Europe’s NCD monitoring systems: “What gets measured gets prioritised”](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/five-decisive-actions-to-transform-europes-ncd-monitoring-systems-what-gets-measured-gets-prioritised/) - A new policy paper published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe calls for urgent action to transform how Europe monitors noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Developed jointly by JACARDI, JA PreventNCD and the WHO Regional Office for Europe, the paper outlines five priority actions to strengthen NCD monitoring systems as a foundation for more effective, equitable
- [European Heart Journal policy paper - Nicotine and the cardiovascular system: unmasking a global public health threat](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/european-heart-journal-policy-paper-nicotine-and-the-cardiovascular-system-unmasking-a-global-public-health-threat/) - A new policy paper published in the European Heart Journal warns that nicotine-containing products, whether combustible or smokeless, pose a growing threat to cardiovascular health. While tobacco smoking remains a major cause of preventable death, the rapid uptake of e-cigarettes, heated tobacco and synthetic nicotine pouches, particularly among young people, risks reversing decades of progress
- [OECD report: Cardiovascular disease remains Europe’s leading and most costly health challenge](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/oecd-report-cardiovascular-disease-remains-europes-leading-and-most-costly-health-challenge/) - A new OECD report, The State of Cardiovascular Health in the European Union, confirms that cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death and disability across the EU, accounting for around one in three deaths and affecting 62 million people. While mortality rates declined significantly over previous decades, progress has slowed and, in some
- [New WHO report: Childhood obesity remains alarmingly high in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-who-report-childhood-obesity-remains-alarmingly-high-in-europe/) - A new WHO/Europe report, drawing on data from Round 6 of the Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI), confirms that levels of childhood overweight and obesity remain critically high across the WHO European Region. Among children aged 7–9 years, one in four is living with overweight and one in ten with obesity, increasing the risk of
- [EHAA Publishes Follow-Up Statement on EU Wine Package Vote](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehaa-publishes-follow-up-statement-on-eu-wine-package-vote/) - The European Health Alliance on Alcohol (EHAA) has published a follow-up statement welcoming the outcome of the European Parliament’s vote on the EU Wine Package in the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRI) on 5 November. In its statement, EHAA highlights the Committee’s decision to reaffirm the use of the scientifically accurate and legally
- [Health organisations call on EU Member States to safeguard support for health and civil society in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/health-organisations-call-on-eu-member-states-to-safeguard-support-for-health-and-civil-society-in-europe/) - On 12 December, 38 health and patient advocacy organisations from the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance, including the European Heart Network (EHN), issued a joint statement addressed to EU Member States, urging them to support: The reinstatement of operating grants in the 2026 EU4Health Work Programme A strong, dedicated health budget in the next Multiannual Financial
- [Prevention over Profit: Breaking the Silos to Put Health First](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/prevention-over-profit-breaking-the-silos-to-put-health-first/) - Europe can reduce mortality from non-communicable diseases by curbing exposure to commercial risk factors Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes, account for over 80% of deaths in the European Union. Almost two-thirds of these deaths are directly linked to modifiable risk factors and could be prevented by reducing exposure.
- [EHN Position Paper – A European Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/ehn-position-paper-a-european-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to present its new position paper outlining EHN’s proposed priorities and recommendations for the forthcoming European Cardiovascular Health Plan: a comprehensive roadmap to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD), strengthen prevention, empower patients, and address longstanding inequalities across Europe. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the EU,
- [EHN launches Position Paper on its vision for a European Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-launches-position-paper-on-its-vision-for-a-european-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - On 9 December 2025, the European Heart Network (EHN) launched a new Position Paper outlining its vision, priorities and recommendations for the forthcoming European Cardiovascular Health Plan. The paper calls on EU institutions to take decisive, coordinated action to tackle cardiovascular disease (CVD), Europe’s leading cause of death. CVD affects more than 60 million people
- [EHN Position Paper – A European Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/ehn-position-paper-a-european-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to present its new position paper outlining EHN’s proposed priorities and recommendations for the forthcoming European Cardiovascular Health Plan: a comprehensive roadmap to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD), strengthen prevention, empower patients, and address longstanding inequalities across Europe. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the EU,
- [Sweden Announces National Plan for Heart Health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/sweden-announces-national-plan-for-heart-health/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the Swedish Government’s announcement of a forthcoming National Action Plan for Heart Health, a development that marks a significant step towards strengthened cardiovascular prevention, treatment and patient meaningful engagement in Sweden. Cardiovascular diseases are Sweden's most common cause of death and affect approximately one in five people. Announced on
- [EHN Response to EMA Survey on Patient Experience Data (PED)](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-ema-survey-on-patient-experience-data-ped/) - The European Heart Network has submitted its response to the European Medicines Agency’s survey on Patient Experience Data (PED), which seeks to understand how patients’ perspectives are gathered and used across therapeutic areas. In its submission, EHN highlights ongoing shortcomings in incorporating patient perspectives into cardiovascular research, medicine development, regulatory assessment and reimbursement decisions. While
- [WHO Tobacco Conference (COP11) Delivers Progress on Environment and Liability, but Stalls on Key Nicotine Measures](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/who-tobacco-conference-cop11-delivers-progress-on-environment-and-liability-but-stalls-on-key-nicotine-measures/) - The Eleventh Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) concluded in Geneva on 22 November, bringing together 160 Parties to advance global tobacco control. Parties adopted several important decisions, including measures addressing the environmental impact of tobacco and nicotine products. These aim to strengthen
- [ECDA Joint Statement on Tobacco Taxation Hearing](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ecda-joint-statement-on-tobacco-taxation-hearing/) - On Thursday, 20 November 2025, the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Tax Matters (FISC) will hold a public hearing on the Tobacco Taxation Directive. The Directive aims to update the current legal framework for excise duty on tobacco in line with the objectives of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, by better aligning the taxation of tobacco and related nicotine products with
- [EHN Joins the European Health Alliance on Alcohol (EHAA)](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-joins-the-european-health-alliance-on-alcohol-ehaa/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to announce that, as of 11 November 2025, it has officially joined the European Health Alliance on Alcohol (EHAA). The Alliance brings together 23 leading European health organisations to advocate for stronger alcohol policy across Europe. By joining this coalition, EHN strengthens its long-standing commitment to advancing evidence-based
- [Launch of the European Declaration on Reducing Harm from Tobacco, Nicotine, Alcohol and Unhealthy Food](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/european-declaration-on-reducing-harm-from-tobacco-nicotine-alcohol-and-unhealthy-food/) - On 3–4 November 2025, the FILTERED Project held its Final Conference in Brussels, marking the launch of the European Declaration on Reducing Harm from Tobacco, Nicotine, Alcohol and Unhealthy Food. The declaration was endorsed by the European Heart Network (EHN) alongside the FILTERED project and associate partners: European Alcohol Policy Alliance (Eurocare) International Youth Health
- [JACARDI Holds Third Annual General Assembly in Madrid](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/jacardi-holds-third-annual-general-assembly-in-madrid-advancing-european-collaboration-on-cardiovascular-and-diabetes-care/) - The Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes (JACARDI) held its Third Annual General Assembly in Madrid, Spain, from 14 to 16 October 2025, hosted by the Spanish Ministry of Health and the Ilustre Colegio Oficial de Médicos de Madrid. The meeting gathered over 200 experts and representatives from 21 European countries, including national health
- [FILTERED Conference – “Prevention over Profit: Breaking the Silos to Put Health First”](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/events/filtered-conference-prevention-over-profit/) - FILTERED Conference 2025 Prevention over Profit: Breaking the Silos to Put Health First 3–4 November 2025, Brussels Despite mounting evidence on the impact of alcohol, tobacco and unhealthy food on public health and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), policies addressing these risk factors remain fragmented and under-resourced across Europe. The FILTERED project, From Silos to Synergies to
- [New EU Criteria for Sustainable and Healthy Food Procurement](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-eu-criteria-for-sustainable-and-healthy-food-procurement/) - The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) has published a new report "Criteria for Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) for Food, Food Services, and Vending Machines", designed to help public institutions, including schools, hospitals, and workplaces, serve healthier and more sustainable meals. The report supports the goals of the European Green Deal and the Vision for
- [EHN and ESO Call for a European Life-Course Action Plan for Cardiovascular and Brain Health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/ehn-and-eso-joint-statement-at-the-75th-session-of-the-who-regional-committee-for-europe/) - At the 75th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe in Copenhagen, the European Heart Network (EHN) and the European Stroke Organisation (ESO) jointly submitted and presented a statement in support of WHO/Europe’s vision of lifelong health, from the first heartbeat to healthy ageing. EHN and ESO highlight that cardiovascular disease and stroke remain
- [EHN Response: Tobacco Taxation – Excise Duties for Manufactured Tobacco Products (Updated Rules)](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-tobacco-taxation-excise-duties-for-manufactured-tobacco-products-updated-rules/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted its response to the European Commission’s consultation on the Tobacco Taxation Directive (TED). EHN welcomes the proposal as an opportunity to strengthen public health, ensure smooth internal market functioning, and increase Member State revenues. As a member of the Smoke Free Partnership (SFP), EHN also supports SFP’s submission.
- [Joint Public Statement: Health Community Urges EU Finance Ministers to Back a Strong Tobacco Taxation Directive](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/joint-public-statement-health-community-urges-eu-finance-ministers-to-back-a-strong-tobacco-taxation-directive/) - Ahead of the Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) meeting on 10 October, the European Heart Network (EHN) has joined leading public health organisations in a joint public statement urging EU Finance Ministers to support a strong Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD) that protects the health of all Europeans. The health community calls on Member States
- [Join EHN’s New AI Community of Practice](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/join-ehns-new-ai-community-of-practice/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is delighted to announce the launch of its AI Community of Practice (CoP) – a new initiative bringing together members interested in exploring the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) in cardiovascular health. The CoP will be chaired by Richard Dodd, Director of AI and Technology at the British
- [EHN Members activities on World Heart Day 2025](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/world-heart-day-2025/ehn-members-activities-on-world-heart-day-2025/) - EHN Members activities on World Heart Day 2025 As part of World Heart Day (WHD) 2025, EHN members are running exciting campaigns and initiatives across Europe. Below you can explore the activities planned by our network. Hungarian Society of Cardiology & Hungarian National Heart Foundation World Heart Day Hungary 2025 will take place on 28
- [World Heart Day 2025](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/world-heart-day-2025/) - EHN joins the World Heart Federation campaign: Don’t Miss a Beat This year, the European Heart Network (EHN) is joining the World Heart Federation campaign, “Don’t Miss a Beat. – Join our mission to make every heartbeat count.” For EHN, this mission is inseparable from advancing population-wide primordial prevention policies, tackling food and nutrition, alcohol
- [New WHO Policy Brief Urges Stronger Food Taxation to Improve Public Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-who-policy-brief-urges-stronger-food-taxation-to-improve-public-health/) - On 5 September, WHO/Europe launched a new policy brief titled “Food taxes for a healthy diet: time for action” during an online event. Developed in collaboration with the Centre for Health Economics & Policy Innovation at Imperial College London, the brief outlines evidence-based strategies to help countries design and implement effective fiscal policies, such as
- [Six EU Countries Call for Stronger Alcohol Measures in the EU CVH Plan](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/six-eu-countries-call-for-stronger-alcohol-measures-in-cvd-health-plan/) - Six EU member states, Austria, Belgium, France, Latvia, Slovenia and Spain, are calling on the European Commission to strengthen alcohol control measures in its upcoming cardiovascular health plan. According to an internal document seen by POLITICO, the countries stressed the importance of EU-wide action to reduce alcohol consumption. Their requests include higher excise taxes on
- [EHN Meeting with European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare Olivér Várhelyi](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-meeting-with-european-commissioner-for-health-and-animal-welfare-oliver-varhelyi/) - On 2 September, EHN Vice President Martin Vestweber and CEO Birgit Beger met with European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, Olivér Várhelyi. Also attending from the European Commission were Marianne Takki (Head of Unit, DG SANTE, Disease Prevention and Health Promotion), Katri Teedumäe (Deputy Head of Cabinet), and Csaba Kontor (Policy Assistant). Report The
- [New EU4Health call on lifelong prevention with focus on cardiovascular diseases now open](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/new-eu4health-calls-launched-over-e56-million-available-for-public-health-projects-in-2025/) - On 23 September 2025, the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA), on behalf of the European Commission, launched new open calls for proposals under the 2025 EU4Health Work Programme. Among the nine topics published, one is particularly relevant to EHN and its members: EU4H-2026-SANTE-PJ-05 – Call for proposals on lifelong prevention for a healthy
- [Spotlight on Leadership: Dutch Heart Foundation’s Vision as a Unified Organisation](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/dutch-heart-foundations-vision-as-a-unified-organisation/) - At the European Heart Network (EHN), we are highlighting the leadership of key organisations in our network. In this edition, we feature the Dutch Heart Foundation and its recent merger with patient organisation Harteraad. As of 1 September 2025, the two organisations joined forces to strengthen efforts in cardiovascular prevention, care, and patient advocacy in
- [Health organitions file complaint to European Ombudswoman on EU4Health 2025 operating grants](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/health-organitions-file-complaint-to-european-ombudswoman-on-eu4health-2025-operating-grants/) - On 22 September, 25 health and patient advocacy organisations, including the European Heart Network (EHN), submitted a formal complaint to the European Ombudswoman regarding the 2025 EU4Health operating grant procedure for Framework Partnership Agreement (FPA) holders. The complaint follows unanswered outreach to the European Commission and HaDEA on 2 September 2025. It raises three concerns:
- [Open letter to Commissioner: expert organisations call for healthy and affordable diets in EU Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/open-letter-to-commissioner-expert-organisations-call-for-healthy-and-affordable-diets-in-eu-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - On World Heart Day, 20 expert organisations representing civil society, health associations and medical professionals, including the European Heart Network (EHN), issued an open letter to Commissioner Várhelyi. They stress that addressing unhealthy diets is amongst the most impactful and cost-effective ways to reduce cardiovascular disease across the EU. As the EU develops its Cardiovascular
- [Slovenia Joins European Momentum for National Cardiovascular Health Programmes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/slovenia-joins-european-momentum-for-national-cardiovascular-health-programmes/) - As cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death in Europe, Slovenia is taking a significant step toward strengthening its national response. Building on successful examples from Spain, Poland, and the Czech Republic, Slovenia is currently in the process of developing its own National Cardiovascular Health Programme, aligning with growing momentum across the European
- [Greece Showcases National CVH Programme as a Model for Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/greece-showcases-national-cvh-programme-as-a-model-for-europe/) - On 1 September, Greece’s Alternate Minister of Health, Irini Agapidaki, presented the national cardiovascular prevention programme “PROLAVAINO” to EU Member States at a special event hosted by EFPIA during the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Congress. Described as “the largest public health investment in Greece in the past 40 years,” the programme demonstrates how large-scale,
- [EuroHealthNet Publishes Policy Brief Outlining Vision for the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/a-blueprint-for-change-eurohealthnet-lays-out-vision-for-an-ambitious-eu-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - EuroHealthNet has released a policy brief setting out its vision for the European Commission’s forthcoming Cardiovascular Health (CVH) Plan. The organisation calls for a comprehensive approach that tackles the root causes of cardiovascular diseases, placing health equity and prevention at the centre. The brief highlights three key recommendations: Integrating Cardiovascular Health in All Policy Sectors: The
- [World Heart Day 2025: Prevention at the Heart of Europe’s Response to Cardiovascular Disease](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/world-heart-day-2025/) - Brussels, 29 September 2025 – Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death in Europe and worldwide, as well as one of the greatest social and economic challenges of our time. It causes 1 in 3 deaths in the EU, many of them premature and preventable. This year, the European Heart Network (EHN) marks
- [World Patient Safety Day: In Conversation with Mehitabel Holler](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/world-patient-safety-day-2025/) - To mark World Patient Safety Day, Mehitabel Holler, Patients and Research Manager at the European Heart Network (EHN), shares her unique perspective as both a patient living with cardiovascular disease and a healthcare policy professional. She underscores the urgent need to embed patient engagement into healthcare systems and cardiovascular health policy to ensure safer, more
- [Food and Nutrition](https://ehnheart.org/activities/prevention/food-and-nutrition/) - Food and Nutrition In the European Region, unhealthy diets are associated with over 1.5 million deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) each year (769 093 in men and 775 406 in women). Dietary risks are responsible for an estimated 37% of all CVD deaths in the region and almost 45% of all the years lost to
- [EHN Priorities for an EU Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/about-cvd/ehn-priorities-for-an-eu-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - EHN’s PRIORITIES for an EU CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH PLAN Download EHN Priorities (PDF) The Burden of Cardiovascular Disease in Europe 80% of premature CVD deaths are preventable The EU’s Role in Fighting CVD: While healthcare is managed by Member States, the EU can drive change through Public Health Interventions Research & Innovation Cross-border Coordination EHN calls
- [EU Action on CVD](https://ehnheart.org/about-cvd/eu-action-on-cvd/) - Fighting cardiovascular disease – a blueprint for EU action The burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is greater than that of any other disease and the leading cause of death in Europe and in the world. To address this burden, the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology have developed a Blueprint for EU action.
- [CVD Prevention](https://ehnheart.org/activities/prevention/) - Prevention of cardiovascular disease One of EHN's three pillars of work is dedicated to the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). A greater reduction of exposure to the main risk factors for CVD would increase the number of years lived in good health. Effective population-wide interventions to prevent CVD have the potential to
- [EHN Response on the European Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-on-the-european-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted its response to the European Commission’s Call for Evidence on the upcoming European Cardiovascular Health Plan. EHN stresses that cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain Europe’s leading cause of death and disability, costing the EU over €280 billion annually. The response highlights the urgent need for a coherent EU strategy
- [New WHO Report Calls for Urgent Action to Curb Avoidable NCD Deaths in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/new-who-report-calls-for-urgent-action-to-curb-avoidable-ncd-deaths-in-europe/) - Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses, remain the leading cause of death and disability in the WHO European Region. A new WHO/Europe report, Avoidable mortality, risk factors and policies for tackling noncommunicable diseases – leveraging data for impact, published on 27 June 2025, reveals that 1.8 million deaths
- [EHN Responds to Draft UN Political Declaration on NCDs](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-responds-to-draft-un-political-declaration-on-ncds/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has raised concerns about the weakening of global health commitments in the latest draft of the United Nations Political Declaration on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs). The current draft, obtained by Politico, notably removes the proposed target for 80% of countries to implement taxes on sugary drinks in line with World Health
- [Save the Date: EACH Cardiovascular Health Summit](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/events/save-the-date-each-cardiovascular-health-summit/) - Save the Date: EACH Cardiovascular Health Summit As a founding Member of the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH), the European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to announce the inaugural EACH Cardiovascular Health Summit, taking place at the Palais des Académies in Brussels at the on 10–11 December 2025. Date 10–11 December 2025 Location Palais des Académies, Brussels A Decisive
- [Cardiovascular Diseases Remain Leading Cause of Death in the EU, Says Eurostat](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/cardiovascular-diseases-remain-leading-cause-of-death-in-the-eu-says-eurostat/) - Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death across the European Union, accounting for 1.68 million deaths in 2022, equivalent to 32.7% of all deaths, according to the latest Eurostat data (extracted in July 2025). This is considerably higher than deaths from cancer (22.3%), underlining the persistent health burden posed by circulatory conditions. Stark
- [Dutch Heart Foundation and Harteraad to Merge for Stronger Cardiovascular Action](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/harteraad-and-dutch-heart-foundation-join-forces-for-a-heart-healthy-netherlands/) - As of 1 September 2025, Dutch patient organisation Harteraad and the Dutch Heart Foundation (Hartstichting) will merge their operations to strengthen efforts in cardiovascular prevention, care, and support in the Netherlands. While both organisations will continue using their names until January 2026, they will gradually move towards operating under the single brand Hartstichting. The merger
- [EU Cardiovascular Health Plan: Call for Evidence Open Until 15 September](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eu-cardiovascular-health-plan-call-for-evidence-open-until-15-september/) - The European Commission has officially launched a Call for Evidence to shape the upcoming EU Cardiovascular Health Plan, inviting all stakeholders to contribute their views before 15 September 2025. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death in the EU, claiming 1.7 million lives annually. Beyond their toll on individuals and families, CVDs are
- [World Heart Day 2025 – Call for Member Contributions](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/world-heart-day-2025-share-your-activities-with-ehn/) - As part of EHN’s communications strategy for World Heart Day (WHD) 2025, we invite members to share their planned campaigns, initiatives, and events taking place throughout World Heart Month. This is a valuable opportunity to showcase your work across the EHN network and among EU policymakers, European media, and other public health stakeholders. Submitted activities
- [AI4HF Podcast – AI4HF and the future of cardiology: how federated analysis is transforming cardiovascular research](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/projects/ai4hf-and-the-future-of-cardiology-how-federated-analysis-is-transforming-cardiovascular-research/) - The AI4HF consortium has released a new episode of its podcast as part of the Cardio Talk: Latest Research series. In this episode, Professors Pim van der Harst and Folkert Asselbergs, together with Assistant Professor Jessica van Setten, discuss how federated learning enables researchers to generate synthetic, fully anonymous cardiology data across sites. This approach
- [EHN Statement on the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework: Health is Not a Commodity](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-statement-on-the-2028-2034-multiannual-financial-framework-health-is-not-a-commodity/) - On 16 July, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented the proposal for the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). In response, the European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted a statement expressing strong concern over the proposed integration of the EU4Health programme into the new European Competitiveness Fund (ECF). EHN warns that embedding health in
- [Co-creation of a National Action Plan for Heart Health in the Netherlands](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/co-creation-of-a-national-action-plan-for-heart-health-in-the-netherlands/) - In July 2025, the Dutch Heart Foundation published an article in the European Heart Journal, the official peer-reviewed journal of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC):“Co-creation of a national action plan to increase heart health in The Netherlands: the Dutch cardiovascular agenda.” The article outlines the process that led to the development of the Dutch Cardiovascular
- [Early Revision of EU Medical Device Regulation on the Horizon](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/early-revision-of-eu-medical-device-regulation-on-the-horizon/) - We have learned that the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR) is set for a comprehensive, but fast-tracked, revision by the end of 2025, significantly ahead of the originally expected 2027 timeline. Both the European Parliament and the Council are expected to play an active role in shaping the reform. The upcoming changes are anticipated to
- [Critical Medicines Act: A Breakthrough for Medicine Security](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/critical-medicines-act-a-breakthrough-for-medicine-security/) - On 11 March 2025, the European Commission unveiled the Critical Medicines Act, a legislative proposal designed to strengthen the EU’s supply of essential medicines, in particular antibiotics, insulin and treatments for rare diseases. The Act introduces incentives for EU-based manufacturing, a “Buy European” preference in procurement, and formal mechanisms for joint EU purchasing. Momentum is
- [Eurostat: 1.1 Million Avoidable Deaths in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eurostat-1-1-million-avoidable-deaths-in-the-eu/) - A new article recently published by Eurostat highlights that in 2022, nearly 1.1 million deaths among people under 75 in the European Union were classified as avoidable, meaning they could have been prevented through effective public health action or timely, high-quality medical care. This corresponds to a standardised death rate of 257.8 per 100,000 inhabitants
- [EHN joins AWARE Alliance to strengthen cardiac emergency preparedness in European workplaces](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-joins-aware-alliance-to-strengthen-cardiac-emergency-preparedness-in-european-workplaces/) - As of July 2025, the European Heart Network (EHN) has joined the AWARE Alliance – the Alliance for Workplace Awareness and Response to Emergencies, which is led by the European Resuscitation Council (ERC). Given the prevalence of sudden cardiac arrest in and around workplaces, the Alliance aims to ensure that workers feel capable and equipped
- [New EU4Health 2025 funding opportunities on cardiovascular diseases](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/new-eu4health-2025-funding-opportunities-on-cardiovascular-diseases/) - On 23 July 2025, the European Commission published the EU4Health 2025 work programme. The EU4Health Programme, the Union’s main financial instrument for health initiatives, is implemented through annual work programmes. The 2025 programme outlines several funding opportunities highly relevant to EHN and its members working on cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention, screening, artificial intelligence (AI) and
- [Membership Package](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/membership-package/) - Membership Package EHN Statutes Information EHN at a glance Benefits of being a member of the EHN EHN Governance Papers Internal Rules for the EHN Composition of the Board of the EHN Duties and Responsibilities of the Board and the Members of the Board of the EHN The Role of President of the EHN The
- [EHN welcomes the European Commission’s proposal to revise the Tobacco Taxation Directive](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-welcomes-the-european-commissions-proposal-to-revise-the-tobacco-taxation-directive/) - On 16 July 2025, the European Commission published its long-awaited proposal to revise the Tobacco Taxation Directive. Tobacco remains one of the leading causes of preventable death in Europe, claiming nearly 700,000 lives each year. In the WHO European Region, tobacco use is linked to 16% of all cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths, an estimated 674,693
- [EHN Response on Consumer Agenda 2025-2030 and action plan on consumers in the Single Market](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-consumer-agenda-2025-2030-and-action-plan-on-consumers-in-the-single-market/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted its response to the European Commission’s public consultation on the Consumer Agenda 2025–2030 and the accompanying Action Plan on Consumers in the Single Market. EHN highlights the need to strengthen consumer protection to support healthier environments and reduce the burden of avoidable non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly cardiovascular diseases
- [Annual Report 2024](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/the-european-heart-network-annual-report-2024-a-year-of-progress-and-partnership/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to present its Annual Report 2024, reflecting a year of growing political momentum, strategic expansion of its membership, and meaningful action to strengthen the patient voice in cardiovascular health. The report highlights EHN’s key achievements and initiatives within the evolving European policy landscape. “Given the global, political volatility
- [The European Heart Network Annual Report 2024 – A Year of Progress and Partnership](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/the-european-heart-network-annual-report-2024-a-year-of-progress-and-partnership/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to present its Annual Report 2024, reflecting a year of growing political momentum, strategic expansion of its membership, and meaningful action to strengthen the patient voice in cardiovascular health. The report highlights EHN’s key achievements and initiatives within the evolving European policy landscape. “Given the global, political volatility
- [Croatian Heart House Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/croatian-heart-house-foundation/) - Croatian Heart House Foundation The Foundation was established with the aim of supporting the treatment of individuals with cardiovascular diseases, promoting cardiovascular health prevention and the advancement of cardiology, informing and educating the public about the preventability of cardiovascular diseases and the importance of their active role in prevention, early detection, elimination, and treatment of
- [EHN Annual Reports](https://ehnheart.org/who-we-are/ehn-annual-report/) - EHN Annual Reports EHN Annual Reports showcase EHN activities throughout the years. DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD DOWNLOAD
- [MEP Cardiovascular Health Group](https://ehnheart.org/network/alliances/mepcardiovascularhealthgroup/) - MEP Cardiovascular Health Group The MEP Cardiovascular Health (CVH) Group is the successor to the MEP Heart Group, which was established in 2007 by the European Heart Network (EHN) and jointly run with the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) for 15 years (2008–2023).
- [2024](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2024-board-meetings/) - 2024 Board Meetings 26 November 2024 Agenda Minutes 27 September 2024 Agenda Minutes 29 May 2024 Agenda Minutes 26 March 2024 Minutes Agenda
- [EHN position paper on the impact of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/ehn-position-paper-on-the-impact-of-alcohol-consumption-on-cardiovascular-disease/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to announce the publication of its new position paper on the impact of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular disease. This comprehensive paper challenges long-held beliefs and provides a critical overview of the latest evidence regarding alcohol and heart health. This position paper was developed based on extensive research and
- [Health4Europe: A Strategic Blueprint for the Next EU Health Programme](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/health4europe-a-strategic-blueprint-for-the-next-eu-health-programme/) - On 30 June 2025, the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance (CSA) launched Health4Europe, a forward-looking proposal for the next EU Health Programme. The initiative aims to reinforce the European Health Union and ensure that health remains a political and financial priority in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). Building on the progress of the current EU4Health
- [EHN General Assembly 2024](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/ehn-general-assembly/) - EHN General Assembly 2024 – Amsterdam, the Netherlands. All information from the 2024 General Assembly can be found here. Agenda Minutes Combined supporting documents file
- [Governance](https://ehnheart.org/who-we-are/governance/) - Governance The European Heart Network (EHN) is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organisations independent of political parties, commercial and other economic interests. EHN is funded by its members and receives no funding from any industry. The General Assembly, represented by all EHN members, is the highest governing body of our organisation and meets once per year. Please
- [Health missing from EU budget talks, despite strategic importance](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eu-budget-and-policy-time-to-prioritise-health-again/) - Despite the rising economic and societal burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), health remains largely absent from EU budget discussions. The European Commission’s February 2025 communication on the future Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) mentioned health only once, and the topic was missing entirely from the June EU Budget Conference. A new report by the Partnership for
- [New Report Highlights Need for Stronger Safeguards in Alcohol Policy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-report-highlights-need-for-stronger-safeguards-in-alcohol-policy/) - A new report by the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) and Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems (SHAAP) sheds light on how the alcohol industry in the UK continues to influence public discourse undermining effective action to reduce alcohol-related harm. “Spin the Bottle: How the UK alcohol industry twists the facts on harm and responsibility”
- [France Introduces Nationwide Outdoor Smoking Ban to Protect Children’s Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/france-introduces-nationwide-outdoor-smoking-ban-to-protect-childrens-health/) - From 1 July 2025, France will ban smoking in public outdoor areas such as beaches, parks, gardens, bus stops, school surroundings and sports facilities. This decision, announced by Health and Family Minister Catherine Vautrin, marks a significant and tangible step forward in the country's efforts to control tobacco consumption. As stated by Vautrin “Where there
- [EU Health Ministers Call for Stronger Action on Tobacco, Nicotine Products and Alcohol to Tackle Non-Communicable Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eu-health-ministers-call-for-stronger-action-on-tobacco-nicotine-products-and-alcohol-to-tackle-non-communicable-diseases/) - At the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs (EPSCO) Council meeting on 20 June, EU health ministers held a dedicated discussion on disease prevention, with a particular focus on reducing tobacco, nicotine product and alcohol consumption — three major risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) including cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer and liver disease. The
- [EHN Featured in New Guide on NCD Prevention and Care Through Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-contributes-to-new-guide-on-ncd-prevention-and-care-through-physical-activity/) - Published in June 2025, the latest HEPA Guide — Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Care: The Potential of Health-Enhancing Physical Activity — highlights the crucial role of inclusive, health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to have contributed a dedicated chapter on cardiovascular diseases (CVD), the leading
- [JACARDI on Effective Screening for Cardiovascular Disease: In Conversation with Hanna Tolonen](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/jacardi-highlights-the-role-of-screening-in-eu-cardiovascular-strategy/) - Hanna Tolonen, leader of Work Package 8 on screening in the JACARDI project and Director at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), was featured in a recent interview during the JACARDI Executive Board Meeting in Budapest. She highlighted how JACARDI is helping shape the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan, particularly its approach to
- [EU Health Ministers Take Action on Youth Mental Health and Social Media](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eu-health-ministers-take-action-on-youth-mental-health-and-social-media/) - With the latest Council conclusions on promoting and protecting the mental health of children and adolescents in the digital era, European health ministers are calling for measures to ensure that children and adolescents can use digital tools in a safe and healthy way, without risking their mental health. The Council Conclusions call for better digital
- [Members Area](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/) - Welcome to the EHN members area Use the menu above to access members-only content and files.
- [AI4HF Podcast – Artificial Intelligence Implementation and Implications in Clinical Practice](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/projects/ai4hf-podcast-artificial-intelligence-implementation-and-implications-in-clinical-practice/) - The AI4HF consortium presents a new episode of its podcast, released as part of the Cardio Talk: Latest Research series. In this episode, Professor Kazem Rahimi (University of Oxford) explores how to leverage large-scale clinical data — such as electronic health records, biobanks, or hospital registries — to develop AI-based predictive models with the potential
- [Call for Participants: FILTERED Training on Public Speaking](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/call-for-participants-filtered-training-on-public-speaking/) - EHN invites members and partners to apply for a public speaking training under the FILTERED project, in collaboration with Joint Action Prevent NCDs, with the goal of strengthening communication and collaboration across NCD prevention efforts. Programme Details The training includes four online sessions and a two-day workshop in Valencia (20–21 Oct 2025). Hereafter, it will
- [Annual Workshop 2025 Presentations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/ehn-annual-workshop-2025/annual-workshop-2025-presentations/) - Annual Workshop 2025 Presentations Please click on the links below to access all the inspiring presentations from the 2025 Annual Workshop in Stockholm, Sweden. Day 1 Keynote speech Prof. Cecilia Linde – President-Elect, European Society of Cardiology (2024–2026) The European Cardiovascular Health Plan – Prevention Commercial determinants of health New Nicotine Products: How Industry Has
- [Photo Gallery EHN AW 2025](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/ehn-annual-workshop-2025/photo-gallery-aw25/) - Below, you will find a gallery showcasing EHN members and the EHN Board. Download photo 1 Download photo 2 Download photo 3 Download photo 4 Download photo 5
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2025](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/ehn-annual-workshop-2025/) - EHN Annual Workshop and General Assembly Stockholm, Sweden 16-18 June 2025 Hosted by the Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation, together with the Swedish Heart and Lung Association European Cardiovascular healthTrailblazing campaigns forEuropean and national plans This year’s workshop will explore the latest developments in European and national cardiovascular disease (CVD) plans, the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- [Annual Workshop 2024 Presentations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/annual-workshop-2024-presentations/) - Annual Workshop 2024 Presentations Please click on the links below to access all the inspiring presentations from the 2024 Annual Workshop in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. DAY 1 The Dutch Heart's Foundation's 60-year journey - Hans Snijder (Dutch Heart Foundation) From Patient to Researcher - Rogier Veltrop Our Right to Health - Brigit Toebes Spotlight on
- [EHN Position Paper on the Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Cardiovascular Disease](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-toolkits/ehn-position-paper-on-the-impact-of-alcohol-consumption-on-cardiovascular-disease/) - EHN Position Paper on the Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Cardiovascular Disease - Toolkit for EHN Members This comprehensive paper challenges long-held beliefs and provides a critical overview of the latest evidence on alcohol and cardiovascular health. Despite widespread public perception, there is no conclusive scientific evidence that low-to-moderate alcohol consumption protects against cardiovascular disease
- [EHN Launches New Position Paper on the Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Cardiovascular Disease](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/ehn-launches-new-position-paper-on-the-impact-of-alcohol-consumption-on-cardiovascular-disease/) - Brussels, 12 June 2025 – The European Heart Network (EHN) unveils its new position paper, "The Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Cardiovascular Disease," a decisive call for action, underpinned by the most up-to-date scientific evidence. The EHN position paper is based on research performed by Tim Stockwell at the University of Victoria, Canada. It dismantles
- [EHN position paper on the impact of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/ehn-position-paper-on-the-impact-of-alcohol-consumption-on-cardiovascular-disease/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to announce the publication of its new position paper on the impact of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular disease. This comprehensive paper challenges long-held beliefs and provides a critical overview of the latest evidence regarding alcohol and heart health. This position paper was developed based on extensive research and
- [EHN Toolkits](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-toolkits/) - Toolkits for EHN Members EHN Toolkits are practical resources to support members with the communication and dissemination of EHN’s work — including campaigns, reports, and policy papers. EHN Position Paper on the Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Cardiovascular Disease
- [EHN communication toolkit for launch of new Strategic Plan](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-communication-toolkit-for-launch-of-new-strategic-plan/) - We are delighted to inform EHN Members that the public launch of the new EHN Strategic Plan 2023-2030, “Europe’s Cardiovascular Health Opportunities: Leadership for Change,” will take place on Monday 30 October 2023. EHN’s new strategy is a product of months of continuous work and support from all of you, and we welcome all members to
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2024](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2024-2/) - EHN Annual Workshop 2024: United in Diversity We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who participated in the EHN Annual Workshop in Amsterdam. Your engagement and expertise in sharing skills, experiences, and best practices for CVD research, patient involvement, fundraising, AI, and advocacy were invaluable. Thank you for your dedication, which undoubtedly advances our collective
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2023](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2023-2/) - EHN Annual Workshop 2023 - Mainz, Germany The European Heart Network's 2023 Annual Workshop took place in Mainz, Germany, from 31 May to 2 June 2023. Hosted by the German Heart Foundation, the event brought together members and partners to discuss New Approaches for Cardiovascular Health in Times of Crises. The programme included plenary discussions,
- [World No Tobacco Day 2025: Together for a Tobacco-Free Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/world-no-tobacco-day-2025/) - To mark this year’s World No Tobacco Day, the European Heart Network (EHN) reaffirmed its commitment to stronger tobacco control policies and the protection of cardiovascular health, particularly among younger generations. On 27 May 2025, EHN’s Manager for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Policies, Marleen Kestens, participated in the high-level event "Unmasking the Industry Tactics: Safeguarding Europe’s
- [European Parliament Interest Group Launches Declaration on Health Inequalities, Prevention, and Risk Factors](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/european-parliament-interest-group-launches-declaration-on-health-inequalities-and-prevention/) - On 21 May, the European Parliament Interest Group on Health Inequalities, Prevention and Risk Factors launched its Declaration, calling for stronger EU action to address the structural drivers of ill health. With non-communicable diseases causing 80% of deaths in the EU and health inequalities on the rise, the Declaration urges policymakers to prioritise prevention, strengthen
- [New Podcast: EHN CEO Highlights Gender Gaps in Cardiovascular Care](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/new-podcast-ehn-ceo-highlights-gender-gaps-in-cardiovascular-care/) - Birgit Beger, CEO of the European Heart Network (EHN), joined the Women’s Health Uncovered podcast to discuss the under-recognised burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women. Speaking alongside cardiologist Dr Bharati Shivalkar and KinArmat Initiative founder Mariam Harutyunyan, the episode explores why symptoms in women are often misdiagnosed, how gender bias persists in research and
- [EU Signals Intent to Revise Tobacco Legislation During Current Mandate](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/eu-signals-intent-to-revise-tobacco-legislation-during-current-mandate/) - Recent developments at EU level suggest that the long-awaited revision of the European Union’s tobacco legislation will be undertaken during the current mandate of the European Commission – a move widely welcomed by the public health community. Over the past two weeks, multiple signals from EU institutions indicate growing momentum to update the EU’s Tobacco
- [WHO Launches 2025 State of the World’s Nursing Report](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/who-launches-2025-state-of-the-worlds-nursing-report/) - The World Health Organization (WHO), together with global partners, launched the State of the World’s Nursing 2025 report on 12 May 2025, marking International Nurses Day. This second edition provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date evidence on the global nursing workforce, including new indicators on education capacity, advanced practice nursing, and remuneration. Drawing on data
- [EHN Patient Advocacy Handbook – Volume I](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/ehn-patient-advocacy-handbook-volume-i/) - The EHN Patient Advocacy Handbook is designed to empower patients living with cardiovascular disease (CVD) by providing the knowledge, skills, resources, and practical guidance needed to advocate effectively for their rights, quality care, and supportive policies. Developed by the European Heart Network (EHN), with the essential input and contribution of EHN member organisations and patient
- [EHN Patient Advocacy Handbook – Volume I](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/patients/ehn-patient-advocacy-handbook-volume-i/) - The EHN Patient Advocacy Handbook is designed to empower patients living with cardiovascular disease (CVD) by providing the knowledge, skills, resources, and practical guidance needed to advocate effectively for their rights, quality care, and supportive policies. Developed by the European Heart Network (EHN), with the essential input and contribution of EHN member organisations and patient
- [From Failure to Future](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/from-failure-to-future/) - Caius Ovidiu Merșa discusses the power of social media platforms like TikTok in counteracting unhealthy food marketing, particularly targeting young people and children. He emphasises the importance of using these platforms to promote healthier lifestyles and encourage better food choices. Your Voice Matters — Be Part of the Change Heart failure and cardiovascular disease affect
- [MEPs join people living with heart failure to call for stronger patient involvement in cardiovascular health policies](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/meps-join-people-living-with-heart-failure-to-call-for-stronger-patient-involvement-in-cardiovascular-health-policies/) - Brussels, 5 May 2025 - To mark Heart Failure Awareness Week (5–11 May 2025), the European Heart Network (EHN) is launching its campaign From Failure to Future, highlighting the urgent need for stronger cardiovascular health policies and more meaningful patient involvement at EU level. Over 10 million people in the European Union live with heart
- [Join EACH Webinar Series on the EU Council Conclusions](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/each-webinar-series-shaping-the-future-of-cardiovascular-health-in-europe-join-our-exclusive-public-advocacy-webinars-on-the-eu-council-conclusions/) - The European Cardiovascular Health Alliance (EACH) is launching a special series of public advocacy webinars to empower patients, advocates, and the wider community, kindly hosted by the FH Europe Foundation. Hear directly from Ms Kitti Almer, Hungarian Public Health Attaché, who led the efforts toward the EU Council Conclusions on the Improvement of Cardiovascular Health,
- [Launch of the MEP Cardiovascular Health Group and Publication of the EACH Roadmap](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/launch-of-the-mep-cardiovascular-health-group-and-publication-of-the-each-roadmap/) - On 23 April, the European Heart Network (EHN), as a founding partner of the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH), took part in the launch of the MEP Cardiovascular Health Group at the European Parliament.
- [Slovenia Bans Flavoured E-Cigarettes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/slovenia-bans-flavoured-e-cigarettes/) - As of 24 April 2025, Slovenia has officially banned all flavours in e-cigarettes and their refills — except tobacco. Only products containing one or more of 16 authorised substances that give a tobacco flavour are permitted for sale, following a model introduced by the Netherlands. The ban aims to reduce the attractiveness of e-cigarettes, particularly
- [Over 120 Organisations Back Health Ministers’ Urgent Call to Revise EU Tobacco Directives](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/over-120-organisations-back-health-ministers-urgent-call-to-revise-eu-tobacco-directives/) - More than 120 organisations have signed a joint letter urging the European Commission to urgently revise the Tobacco Products Directive, the Tobacco Advertising Directive, and the Tobacco Taxation Directive. The initiative follows a call from 12 EU Member States to update legislation in response to the growing use of novel tobacco and nicotine products. Tobacco
- [Join Our Team: Event & Communications Internship](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/join-our-team-event-communications-internship/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is looking for a motivated Event & Communications Intern to join our Brussels-based team from June to December 2025. This paid internship offers a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in communications, event organisation, and EU public health advocacy. The intern will support the preparation of a high-level conference on
- [EU4Health Alliance Issues Open Letter Urging Swift Action on 2025 Work Plan and Funding](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/eu4health-alliance-issues-open-letter-urging-swift-action-on-2025-work-plan-and-funding/) - On 10 April, the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance — a coalition of over 30 health organisations, including the European Heart Network — addressed an open letter to the European Commission and President Ursula von der Leyen, urging immediate adoption of the 2025 EU4Health Work Plan and full-year operational funding for civil society organisations under existing
- [Spotlight on Leadership: Swedish Heart and Lung Association's Vision for the Future](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/spotlight-on-leadership-swedish-heart-and-lung-associations-vision-for-the-future/) - At the European Heart Network (EHN), we are highlighting the leadership of key patient organisations in our network. In this edition, we feature the Swedish Heart and Lung Association and its new leadership. We spoke with Ulrica Sundholm about their vision, priorities, and the evolving role of patient advocacy in Sweden and across Europe. A
- [MEP Cardiovascular Health Group Launch and EHN Members Engagement](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/mep-cardiovascular-health-group-and-ehn-member-engagement/) - About the MEP Cardiovascular Health Group The MEP Cardiovascular Health Group, established in October 2024 by the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Heath (EACH), provides a platform for MEPs to foster dialogue, drive outreach, and support cardiovascular health initiatives at the EU and national levels. Chaired by MEP Romana Jerković (S&D, Croatia), the group comprises 15
- [EHN Response to European Parliament SANT Committee Consultation on Women's Health](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-european-parliament-sant-committee-consultation-on-womens-health/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has submitted its response to the European Parliament’s SANT Committee consultation on women’s health, highlighting the urgent need to shift from a male-centric medical model to a gender-responsive approach. This consultation will inform upcoming initiatives within the SANT Committee, aiming to drive more equitable healthcare policies. We encourage all stakeholders
- [EHN Joins EU4Health Event on Prioritising Health in the Next Multiannual Financial Framework](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/ehn-participates-in-crucial-european-parliament-discussion-on-public-health/) - On 26 March 2025, the European Heart Network (EHN) took part in a pivotal event at the European Parliament discussing the future of public health in the EU. The EU4Health Civil Society Alliance event, titled “Unlocking Europe’s Future: Prioritising Health under the next Multiannual Financial Framework,” brought together over 150 participants and was hosted by
- [European Commission Proposes Critical Medicines Act to Strengthen Supply of Essential Medicines](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/european-commission-proposes-critical-medicines-act-to-strengthen-supply-of-essential-medicines/) - On 11 March 2025, the European Commission proposed the Critical Medicines Act to improve the availability of essential medicines in the EU by strengthening pharmaceutical manufacturing and diversifying supply chains. This builds on the Union List of Critical Medicines, covering antibiotics, anti-thrombotics, cancer treatments, and cardiovascular medicines. However, key cardiovascular medicines like ACE inhibitors and
- [New WHO Report Highlights Quick Public Health Measures for Tackling Chronic Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/new-who-report-highlights-quick-wins-for-tackling-chronic-diseases/) - A new Lancet Regional Health – Europe report by WHO/Europe reveals that just 25 public health interventions—termed ‘Quick Buys’—can deliver measurable health benefits within five years, making them highly effective within a single political cycle. Quick Buys: Fast and Effective Interventions WHO has previously identified the Best Buys—proven, cost-effective measures to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
- [New Lancet Report Warns of Rising Obesity Rates](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-lancet-report-warns-of-rising-obesity-rates/) - A new study published in The Lancet warns that by 2050, over 60% of adults and 30% of children worldwide will be overweight or obese unless urgent action is taken. With obesity being a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), these projections highlight the pressing need for effective prevention policies. According to the study,
- [Call for Contributions: EHN Annual Report 2024](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/call-for-contributions-ehn-annual-report-2024/) - As we prepare the EHN Annual Report for 2024, we would like to extend our gratitude to all member organisations that contributed to last year’s edition. The EHN Member Activities Spotlight showcased key initiatives in cardiovascular health prevention, advocacy, and promotion throughout 2023. You can find the EHN Annual Report 2023 here. Once again, we
- [Health and finance ministers ask the EU Commission for stricter measures on vapes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/health-and-finance-ministers-ask-the-eu-commission-for-stricter-measures-on-vapes/) - In December 2024, sixteen EU finance ministers asked the EU to implement stricter measures on taxing tobacco products and to include vapes in the EU Tobacco Taxation Directive (TTD). They requested a revision of the current TTD to include new products such as electronic cigarettes (vapes), which are not covered under existing legislation. The initiative
- [EHN Response to Commission Consultation: Targeted Evaluation of EU Rules on Medical Devices and In Vitro Diagnostics](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-commission-public-consultation-targeted-evaluation-of-eu-rules-on-medical-devices-and-in-vitro-diagnostics/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the opportunity to contribute feedback to the Commission’s targeted evaluation of EU rules on medical devices and in vitro diagnostics. Improved access to life-saving medical devices is crucial, particularly for cardiovascular patients, with a focus on paediatric and rare disease care. A more balanced regulatory approach is needed, one
- [FP10 Joint Statement: Healthcare Stakeholders’ Priority Areas and Recommendations](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/fp10-joint-statement-strengthening-health-research-and-innovation-for-europes-future/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has joined forces with leading health stakeholders to address the critical challenges facing Europe's health research landscape. In this joint statement, we highlight the need to protect and effectively fund health research and innovation within the next European Framework Programme (FP10). As Europe's health systems face increasing pressures, it is
- [World Heart Day 2024](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/world-heart-day-2024/) - EHN Press Kit Discover our newly updated public press kit, created for World Heart Day 2024. This valuable resource is aimed at equipping media professionals with essential information about EHN, its mission, and its activities. The kit includes a range of materials to support media coverage of EHN's initiatives and to enhance understanding of cardiovascular
- [EU4Health Alliance Calls for Urgent Clarity on 2025 Work Programme and Grants](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/concerns-over-the-lack-of-information-on-the-publication-of-the-2025-calls-for-operating-grants-under-the-eu4health-programme/) - The European Heart Network (EHN), alongside 27 health civil society organisations, has signed a joint statement from the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance, calling for urgent clarity on the 2025 operating grants under the EU4Health programme. Despite the framework partnership agreements in place for 2025–2026, no information has been provided on the availability or timeline of
- [The EU4Health Civil Society Alliance expresses concerns about restrictions on civil society’s activities in the new mandate](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/the-eu4health-civil-society-alliance-expresses-concerns-about-restrictions-on-civil-societys-activities-in-the-new-mandate/) - The EU4Health Civil Society Alliance, representing over 30 health-focused civil society organisations (CSOs) across Europe, has expressed concerns over new restrictions under the EU LIFE programme. These restrictions prevent CSOs from using LIFE operating grants for policy and advocacy activities targeting EU policymakers, potentially limiting their role in policy-making and reducing diverse perspectives in the
- [WHO Member States Call for the Regulation of Digital Marketing of Baby Foods](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/who-member-states-call-for-the-regulation-of-digital-marketing-of-baby-foods/) - On 10 February 2025 - amid political and budgetary challenges following the US withdrawal from the WHO - the 156th WHO Executive Board has recommended that a Draft Resolution on regulating the digital marketing of breast-milk substitutes be presented at the 78th World Health Assembly in May. The Resolution is calling on Member States to
- [EHN Highlights the Role of Nutrition in Preventing CVDs at European Parliament Event](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/the-role-of-nutrition-in-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-a-key-discussion-at-the-european-parliament/) - On 4 February 2025, in recognition of World Cancer Day, the European Heart Network (EHN) participated in a pivotal event at the European Parliament focusing on the role of nutrition in the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and cancer. Marleen Kestens, Prevention Policies Manager at EHN, spoke at a high-level roundtable
- [WHO Report Highlights the Need for Health Warnings on Alcohol Labels in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/who-report-highlights-the-need-for-health-warnings-on-alcohol-labels-in-the-eu/) - The WHO European Region has published a report emphasising the importance of health warnings on alcohol labels in the EU. The report highlights that the European Union has the highest levels of alcohol consumption in the world, twice the global average. It stresses that labelling is an effective tool for raising awareness and driving change,
- [European Health Report 2024](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/european-health-report-2024/) - WHO European Region Publishes European Health Report 2024 The WHO European Region has released its European Health Report 2024, highlighting key public health challenges and trends across the Region. Some of the most striking findings include: While the risk of premature death from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) is declining, they remain a major cause of premature
- [European Commission’s Vision on Agriculture and Food](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/european-commissions-vision-on-agriculture-and-food/) - On 19 February 2025, the European Commission published its new vision on agriculture and food. Since December 2024, the EU has had a new Commissioner for Health (Olivér Várhelyi, Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare) and a new Commissioner for Agriculture and Food (Christophe Hansen). Notably, responsibility for food has now shifted entirely to Commissioner
- [EHN Statement on the EU Vision on Agriculture and Food](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-the-eu-vision-on-agriculture-and-food/) - On 19 February 2025, the European Commission unveiled its Vision for Agriculture and Food, describing it as "an ambitious roadmap aimed at ensuring a competitive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food system for Europe." The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the recognition of sustainability and innovation but regrets the missed opportunity to shift to plant-based diets, which
- [Plant-Based Meat Alternatives and Their Impact on Cardiovascular Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/plant-based-meat-alternatives-and-their-impact-on-cardiovascular-health/) - The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has published a report on plant-based meat alternatives (PBMAs) and their impact on cardiometabolic health. The study found that: Replacing meat with PBMAs was associated with significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and body weight. No significant changes were observed in HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, or fasting glucose levels.
- [Birgit Beger Discusses the Need for an EU Cardiovascular Health Plan in JACARDI Interview](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/birgit-beger-ceo-of-ehn-discusses-the-need-for-an-eu-cardiovascular-health-plan-in-jacardi-interview/) - We are pleased to share an insightful interview with Birgit Beger, CEO of the European Heart Network (EHN), as she speaks about her role as a member of JACARDI’s Advisory Board. In the interview, Birgit highlights the urgent need for an EU Cardiovascular Health Plan to tackle the rising burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). She
- [EHN Welcomes Mehitabel Holler as Manager, Patients and Research](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-welcomes-mehitabel-holler-as-manager-patients-and-research/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is delighted to welcome Mehitabel Holler as our new Manager, Patients and Research. In this key role, Mehitabel will collaborate closely with EHN’s patient member organisations and stakeholders across Europe to advocate for cardiovascular health, amplify patients' voices, and support impactful research initiatives. As someone with lived experience of atrial
- [EHN Attends Launch of European Parliament Interest Group on Health Inequalities, Prevention & Risk Factors](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/ehn-attends-launch-of-european-parliament-interest-group-on-health-inequalities-prevention-risk-factors/) - On 18 February 2025, EHN participated in the launch of the European Parliament Interest Group on Health Inequalities, Prevention, and Risk Factors. This newly established group brings together MEPs, WHO Europe, civil society, and key stakeholders to advance prevention, address health inequalities, and uphold evidence-based policymaking. Unlike disease-specific initiatives, it takes a broad approach, tackling
- [Israeli Heart Association](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/israeli-heart-association/) - Israeli Heart Association Israeli Heart Association is a nonprofit nongovernmental heart & cardiovascular patient organisation. IHA aim to lower heart & cvd morbidity and mortality in Israel , by raising public awareness to heart and cardiovascular diseases risk factors and symptoms and by promoting heart healthy lifestyle. IHA was Founded in 2019 by Gil Meltzer,
- [Annual Workshop 2023 Presentations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2023-2/annual-workshop-2023-presentations/) - Annual Workshop 2023 Presentations Please click on the links below to access all the inspiring presentations from the 2023 Annual Workshop in Mainz, Germany. DAY 1 - Patient voice in all policies The case for patient involvement in health research, policy and practice - by Anca Toma (European Patients' Forum) HerzFit App: A digital tool for
- [Reforming VAT on Food: Health, Environmental, and Economic Benefits](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/reforming-vat-on-food-health-environmental-and-economic-benefits/) - A new study published in Nature Food highlights the impact of VAT reforms on food and their potential to improve public health and sustainability. The research shows that increasing VAT rates on meat and dairy while reducing VAT rates on fruit and vegetables can lead to healthier diets and a more sustainable living environment. Without
- [Press](https://ehnheart.org/who-we-are/press/) - EHN Press Kit The European Heart Network (EHN) Press Kit is a comprehensive resource designed to provide media professionals with essential information about EHN, its mission and its activities. This kit includes a variety of materials to support media coverage of EHN's initiatives and to facilitate a deeper understanding of cardiovascular disease (CVD) issues across
- [Commissioner Várhelyi Reaffirms Commitment to a European Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/commissioner-varhelyi-reaffirms-commitment-to-a-european-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the recent confirmation by Olivér Várhelyi, the new European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, of his commitment to launching a European Cardiovascular Health Plan. In his first public statements since taking office, Commissioner Várhelyi emphasized that the majority of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are preventable, yet they remain the
- [EHN Annual Workshop in Stockholm: Call for Fundraising Best Practices](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-annual-workshop-in-stockholm-call-for-fundraising-best-practices/) - EHN is excited to announce the upcoming EHN Annual Workshop, taking place in Stockholm from 16 to 18 June 2025. As part of this event, we will host a dedicated Fundraising Session on Wednesday morning, 18 June, focusing on digital tools and AI in fundraising. We are calling on all EHN members to share best
- [Parliament’s Public Health Committee Begins Work](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/parliaments-public-health-committee-begins-work/) - On Wednesday, 29 January, the newly established standing committee on public health (SANT) held its constitutive meeting and elected MEP Adam Jarubas (EPP, Poland) as its Chair, along with four Vice-Chairs. The elected Bureau leading the committee consists of: Chair: Adam JARUBAS (EPP, Poland) – elected by acclamation First Vice-Chair: Tilly METZ (Greens/EFA, Luxembourg) –
- [WHO/Europe Public Hearings on the Future of Health: Engage in the Discussion](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/who-europe-public-hearings-on-the-future-of-health-engage-in-the-discussion/) - WHO/Europe has launched a series of five public hearings to shape the Second European Programme of Work (EPW2) 2026–2030—a shared vision for health and well-being across the European Region. These hearings offer a platform for stakeholders to contribute insights on key health challenges, including noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), ageing, health security, and climate change. EHN, as
- [Promoting Healthier Hearts and Lives: The Power of Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/promoting-healthier-hearts-and-lives-the-power-of-physical-activity-we-are-pleased-to-share-an-insightful-editorial-by-birgit-beger-ceo-of-the-european-heart-network-ehn-featured-in-europeactive/)
- [FILTERED Capacity Building On Pro Health Taxes](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/events/filtered/) - Save the date! FILTERED Capacity Building On Pro Health Taxes The Smoke Free Partnership (SFP) will be organising a 2.5-day capacity building event on pro-health taxes. This event aims to equip civil society representatives, decision-makers, journalists, and other relevant stakeholders with the knowledge and tools necessary to advocate for pro-health taxes (on alcohol, tobacco, and
- [Open Consultation on Medical Devices: EHN to Respond](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/open-consultation-on-medical-devices-ehn-to-respond/) - The European Commission has launched a public consultation and call for evidence as part of its targeted evaluation of EU legislation on medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices. This consultation is an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute feedback on the current regulatory framework. EHN's incoming Patient Manager, who will join the team on
- [EHN Featured in EMA’s December 2024 Big Data Highlights](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/ehn-featured-in-emas-december-2024-big-data-highlights/) - The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has published the latest edition of its Big Data Highlights newsletter, which provides updates on the implementation of the joint Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA)–EMA Big Data workplan. This initiative aims to optimise the use of big data to support innovation and public health in the European Union. A key
- [EU Council Approves New European Health Data Space Regulation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/eu-council-approves-new-european-health-data-space-regulation/) - On 21 January 2025, the EU Council adopted the European Health Data Space (EHDS) regulation, marking a significant milestone in the digital transformation of healthcare across Europe. This regulation is set to improve the management, access, and sharing of health data, driving innovation and enhancing patient care. Key Highlights Control Over Health Data – Patients
- [EHN is Leaving X – Let's Stay Connected on Other Platforms](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-is-leaving-x-stay-connected-with-us-on-other-platforms/) - After careful consideration, the European Heart Network (EHN) has decided to leave the platform X (formerly Twitter) as of 31 January 2025. Since its acquisition in 2022, the platform has undergone significant changes that have impacted its role as a safe and supportive space for civil society organisations to engage in constructive dialogue. The amplification
- [More than 130 organisations call for EU Action Plan for Plant-based Foods](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/more-than-130-organisations-call-for-eu-action-plan-for-plant-based-foods/) - More than 130 groups representing farmers, health professionals, consumers, animal welfare, and environmental interests have written to European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, urging him to develop an EU Action Plan for Plant-Based Foods by 2026. The groups, including 30 national organisations, as well as European and international-level bodies, add to the growing
- [Swedish Heart and Lung Association](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/swedish-heart-and-lung-association/) - Swedish Heart and Lung Association The Swedish Heart and Lung Association is a Non-Governmental Organisation that unites persons with cardiovascular and lung diseases. Their most important objective is to improve living conditions for persons with cardiovascular and lung diseases. They are a politically and religiously independent association; founded in 1939, they have been by its members ever
- [AI4HF Patient Feedback Survey – Contribute to the Development of AI Solutions for Heart Failure Care](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/ai4hf-patient-feedback-survey-contribute-to-the-development-of-ai-solutions-for-heart-failure/) - The AI4HF project, Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence for Personalised Risk Assessment in Chronic Heart Failure (AI4HF), has launched its patient feedback survey. This survey seeks to gather insights from individuals living with heart failure to understand their preferences for learning about new AI solutions in heart failure care. Take the survey About AI4HF AI4HF is a
- [European Awareness Week on Alcohol Related Harm 2024 Successfully Concludes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/european-awareness-week-on-alcohol-related-harm-2024-successfully-concludes/) - The European Awareness Week on Alcohol Related Harm (AWARH) 2024, held from 2 to 6 December, highlighted the critical issue of alcohol-related harm in Europe. The campaign successfully captured the attention of policymakers, Members of the European Parliament, and other key stakeholders, emphasizing the urgent need for mandatory alcohol labelling across the European Union and
- [EU Council Approves Smoke- and Aerosol-Free Environment Guidelines Amid Parliamentary Setback](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/eu-council-approves-smoke-and-aerosol-free-environment-guidelines-amid-parliamentary-setback/) - On 3 December 2024, the Council of the EU adopted updated recommendations on smoke- and aerosol-free environments. These measures aim to protect public health by addressing the risks of second-hand exposure to tobacco smoke and emissions from e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. This decision replaces the 2009 recommendation and expands its scope to include outdoor
- [Czech Government Approves National Cardiovascular Plan for 2025-2035](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/czech-government-approves-national-cardiovascular-plan-for-2025-2035/) - On 11 December 2024, the Czech government took a significant step forward in tackling cardiovascular disease (CVD) by approving the National Cardiovascular Plan (NCP). This marks a milestone for the country, positioning it as the third EU nation, after Spain and Poland, to adopt a dedicated strategic framework for addressing cardiovascular health. The NCP, covering
- [SAVE THE DATE: Transforming the NCD and Mental Health Agendas](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/save-the-date-transforming-the-ncd-and-mental-health-agendas/) - 18-20 March 2025 | Athens, GreeceThe WHO Regional Office for Europe is hosting the event "Breaking Barriers, Building Bridges: Transforming the NCD and Mental Health Agendas for 2030 and Beyond." This event will bring together member states, civil society, youth, and people with lived experience ahead of the 4th High-Level Meeting of the UN General
- [COMBINE Programme for Clinical Trials and Medical Devices Endorsed by Member States](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/combine-programme-for-clinical-trials-and-medical-devices-endorsed-by-member-states/) - National authorities in EU Member States have endorsed a new strategy for the COMBINE programme, a cross-sector initiative aimed at streamlining combined studies of medicines, medical devices, and diagnostics. This programme is designed to enhance collaboration and improve efficiency in clinical trials involving both medicinal products and medical devices. The COMBINE programme will be implemented
- [Parliament Approves New Public Health Committee (SANT)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/parliament-approves-new-public-health-committee-sant/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the European Parliament’s decision to establish a dedicated Public Health Committee (SANT) with full legislative powers starting in 2025. This new committee marks a significant development in strengthening the EU’s focus on public health, particularly cardiovascular health, which remains the leading cause of death in Europe. Adam Jarubas (EPP,
- [AI4HF Clinician Requirements Survey – Help Shape the Future of Heart Failure Management](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/ai4hf-clinician-requirements-survey-help-shape-the-future-of-heart-failure-management/) - The AI4HF project, Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence for Personalised Risk Assessment in Chronic Heart Failure (AI4HF), has launched its clinician requirements survey. This survey seeks to gather insights from heart failure healthcare professionals about their knowledge, perceptions, and informational needs regarding the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in heart failure management. Take the survey About AI4HF
- [European Heart Network Welcomes Landmark Council Conclusions on Cardiovascular Health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-heart-network-ehn-welcomes-landmark-council-conclusions-on-cardiovascular-health/) - On 3 December 2024, the Council of Ministers adopted Council Conclusions on the Improvement of Cardiovascular Health in the EU , a move enthusiastically welcomed by the European Heart Network (EHN) and its 31 members across Europe. A Strong Commitment from the EU EHN is delighted that the Council Conclusions explicitly invite the European Commission to
- [MEPs Reject Smoke-Free Guidelines: EHN Urges Action Before Council Meeting](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/meps-reject-smoke-free-environment-guidelines-as-health-organisations-call-for-action/) - On 28 November 2024, the European Parliament rejected a resolution supporting the European Commission’s recommendations to expand smoke- and aerosol-free environments. The resolution failed with 378 votes against, 152 in favour, and 26 abstentions, leaving public health organisations deeply disappointed Divided Parliament Fails to Prioritise Public Health The Commission’s proposal aimed to strengthen existing smoke-free
- [Videos from the Ljubljana Conference Now Available: Insights on Prevention and Collaboration](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/videos-from-the-ljubljana-conference-now-available-insights-on-prevention-and-collaboration/) - We are excited to share two videos from the Challenging Big Industry Narratives conference, held on 27–28 June 2024 in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The event brought together policymakers, advocates, researchers, patients, youth, and health practitioners to explore strategies for reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by managing their key risk factors. Both videos feature Dr Rüdiger Krech, Director
- [Olivér Várhelyi Confirmed as EU Health Commissioner](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/oliver-varhelyi-confirmed-as-eu-health-commissioner/) - Olivér Várhelyi, a Hungarian national, has been confirmed as the European Union’s new Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare following discussions in the European Parliament. His portfolio includes leading efforts on the Critical Medicines Act, a key initiative to address medicines shortages across the EU. However, oversight of the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority
- [EU Funding Cuts Threaten Health NGOs](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eu-funding-cuts-threaten-health-ngos/) - European health non-governmental organisations (NGOs) may face significant challenges as the European Commission plans to slash annual grants by 50 percent next year, according to sources familiar with the situation. Currently, the EU provides approximately €9 million annually through its EU4Health budget to support NGOs’ operational costs. However, while the number of eligible NGOs is
- [FILTERED Social Media Campaign: Keeping Harmful Industries Out of Public Health Decision-Making](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/filtered-social-media-campaign-keeping-harmful-industries-out-of-public-health-decision-making/) - In November, the European Heart Network (EHN), in collaboration with Eurocare, the Smoke Free Partnership, and the International Youth Health Organisation, launched the FILTERED social media campaign to expose the harmful influence of industries such as tobacco, alcohol, junk food, and fossil fuels on public health decision-making. Website Launch: CanWeBeSeriousNow.org To accompany the campaign, we’re
- [EHN Delegation Attends EACH Event in Brussels](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-delegation-attends-each-event-in-brussels/) - On 18 November 2024, the European Heart Network (EHN) delegation attended the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) event in Brussels, titled "Rising to the Challenge: Time for Action on Cardiovascular Health." The event brought together policymakers, healthcare professionals, patient advocates, and experts to discuss comprehensive strategies for improving cardiovascular health (CVH) across Europe. Photo
- [WHO Publications Launch Event: Evidence on Population-Level Screening for Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/who-publications-launch-event-evidence-on-population-level-screening-for-cardiovascular-disease-and-diabetes/) - On 18 November 2024, the European Heart Network (EHN) participated in an insightful webinar hosted by WHO/Europe, marking the launch of three new evidence synthesis reports on population-level screening for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. The webinar featured an in-depth discussion of the second edition of the report: "What is the effectiveness of systematic population-level
- [EU Health at a Glance 2024 Report](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/eu-health-at-a-glance-2024-report/) - On 18 November, the latest EU Health at a Glance 2024 report was launched. This report, prepared by the OECD in cooperation with the European Union, highlights two major themes. Shortage of Healthcare Workforce in the EU The growth of health workforces has not kept pace with the increase in the ageing population. Moreover, Europe’s
- [Current projects](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/current-projects/) - Current Projects The European Heart Network (EHN) is actively involved in EU-funded research projects, contributing as a patient representative partner and as a key player in prevention-focused initiatives. EHN’s role includes fostering collaboration, advocating for health equity, and ensuring structured patient engagement throughout. Below, you can explore EHN’s work under two main categories: Patients Projects
- [Patient Projects](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/current-projects/patient-projects/) - Patient Projects EHN is involved in several ongoing EU-funded research projects as a patient representative partner in each consortium. EHN's primary role is to bring the patient perspective to the design and development of each project and to facilitate active and structured patient engagement in each project. HYPERMARKER HYPERMARKER is a four-year international research project
- [EHN Projects](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/) - Projects EHN facilitates meaningful and structured patient involvement in projects to enable patients to be active partners in creating person-centred cardiovascular research and innovation. Current projects View current projects Completed projects View completed projects Criteria for Collaboration Key principles for EHN involvement: EHN will collaborate on projects that aim to promote cardiovascular health, prevent cardiovascular
- [Filtered Project](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/prevention-projects/filtered-project/) - Filtered Project The main goal of the FILTERED Project (From sILos To synErgies to pRevEnt ncDs) is to stimulate collaborative advocacy, health promotion, action and accountability at European and national level, for the prevention of NCDs among civil society organisations specialised in advocacy linked to the reduction of alcohol-related harm, tobacco control and the reduction of
- [JACARDI](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/prevention-projects/jacardi/) - JACARDI JACARDI (Joint Action on CARdiovascular Diseases and Diabetes) is an EU initiative supporting 21 European countries in addressing the burdens of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and diabetes at both individual and systemic levels. The European Heart Network (EHN) actively contributes to the JACARDI Project through representation on the Strategic Advisory Board by EHN Board member
- [EHN is Hiring a Patients and Research Manager](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-is-hiring-a-patients-and-research-manager/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is looking for an experienced and motivated Manager Patients and Research to support our mission in promoting cardiovascular health, advocating for patients, and reducing the impact of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) across Europe. Start Date: As soon as possibleContract: Permanent (Contrat à durée indéterminée (CDI))Report to: EHN Chief Executive OfficerLocation: Brussels
- [74th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/european-heart-network-attends-who-regional-committee-meeting-in-copenhagen/) - The 74th Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe takes place on 29–31 October 2024. Health ministers and high-level delegates from the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region, as well as representatives of partner organizations and civil society meet in Copenhagen, Denmark, to discuss current health issues and set the direction for future activities.
- [40,000 Premature Deaths Linked to Gas Stoves Annually in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/40000-premature-deaths-linked-to-gas-stoves-annually-in-europe/) - A recent study reports that gas stoves are linked to an estimated 40,000 premature deaths each year across Europe. Researchers found that using gas stoves regularly releases harmful nitrogen dioxide, which is associated with heart and lung diseases, asthma, and shorter lifespans, with life expectancy reduced by up to two years on average. With gas
- [New Studies Highlight the Global Impact of Reducing Tobacco Use on Life Expectancy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/new-studies-highlight-the-global-impact-of-reducing-tobacco-use-on-life-expectancy/) - A series of newly published studies in The Lancet Public Health reveal that reducing smoking worldwide could lead to significant increases in life expectancy and prevent millions of premature deaths by 2050. Two studies modelled potential health gains from reducing and eliminating smoking, underscoring the immense impact of tobacco reduction. The first study shows that
- [EU adopts stricter clean air rules](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/eu-adopts-stricter-clean-air-rules/) - On 14 October 2024, the EU Council of Ministers adopted the new directive on ambient air quality and cleaner air for Europe, setting updated (stricter) air quality standards across the EU. The new Directive aligns air quality standards more closely with WHO Recommendations, and strengthens emission norms compared to the previous ambient air quality directive.
- [EACH Establishes New MEP Cardiovascular Health Group](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/each-establishes-new-mep-cardiovascular-health-group-brussels-21-october-2024-the-european-alliance-for-cardiovascular-health-each-is-proud-to-announce-the-establishment-of-the-mep-cardio/) - Brussels, 21 October 2024 — The European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) is proud to announce the establishment of the MEP Cardiovascular Health Group, a new initiative designed to create a dedicated forum for Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) interested in addressing cardiovascular health issues. This informal group aims to foster dialogue, outreach, and
- [World Stroke Day 2024: Raising Awareness and Action for Stroke Prevention](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/world-stroke-day-2024-harnessing-the-power-of-sport-for-stroke-prevention/) - October 29, 2024 — The European Heart Network (EHN) joins the World Stroke Organization in observing World Stroke Day, highlighting stroke as a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. With an estimated 1 in 4 people experiencing a stroke in their lifetime, the statistics are alarming: every three seconds, someone is affected, and over
- [Várhelyi Prioritises Cardiovascular Health but Sidesteps Commitment to Food and Alcohol Labels](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/varhelyi-prioritises-cardiovascular-health-but-sidesteps-commitment-to-food-and-alcohol-labels/) - The European Parliament has published the responses to written questions from the Committees to Commissioner-Designates. The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes Commissioner-Designate Olivér Várhelyi’s recognition of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) as a significant public health priority. In his response, Várhelyi acknowledged the critical impact of CVD, noting, “Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality and
- [Registrations Open for EHN's Patient Advocacy Handbook Workshop](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/empowering-patients-with-cardiovascular-disease-through-advocacy-registrations-open-for-ehns-patient-advocacy-handbook-workshop/) - Date: 5 December 2024Time: 10.30 - 16.00Location: Brussels (location to be defined)Registration Deadline: 21 November 2024 Register Here The European Heart Network (EHN) is excited to introduce the EHN Patient Advocacy Handbook, Empowering Patients with Cardiovascular Disease Through Advocacy, a comprehensive guide designed to empower individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD) by equipping them with essential
- [EHN Statement on the Framework for Resilient and Sustainable Health Systems in the WHO European Region 2025-2030](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-framework-for-resilient-and-sustainable-health-systems-in-the-who-european-region-2025-2030/) - The European Heart Network (EHN), World Heart Federation (WHF), and European Stroke Organization (ESO) have jointly prepared a statement for the Seventy-Fourth Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, endorsing the Framework for Resilient and Sustainable Health Systems in the WHO European Region 2025–2030. Emphasising the urgent need to address air pollution—linked to 1.4
- [EHN Statement on Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience in the WHO European Region 2024-2029](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-health-emergency-preparedness-response-and-resilience-in-the-who-european-region-2024-2029/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) and World Heart Federation (WHF) have expressed strong support for the Health Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Resilience Strategy for the WHO European Region 2024–2029 (Preparedness 2.0) during the Seventy-Fourth Session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. The organisations emphasise the importance of maintaining essential health services during emergencies, particularly
- [EACH event - Rising to the challenge: time for action on cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/events/each-event-rising-to-the-challenge/) - EACH event - Rising to the challenge: time for action on cardiovascular health At present, more than 60 million people in the EU live with cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which remain the main cause of death and disability in Europe, accounting for over €282 billion in healthcare expenditure in the EU every year. The upcoming Council
- [Stroke Cases Surge Worldwide, Linked to Environmental and Lifestyle Factors](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/stroke-cases-surge-worldwide-linked-to-environmental-and-lifestyle-factors/) - A new study published in The Lancet Neurology reveals a worrying rise in stroke cases and related deaths over the past few decades, primarily attributed to environmental and health risk factors. The research estimates that approximately 12 million people experience strokes annually, leading to over 7 million fatalities. From 1990 to 2021, the incidence of
- [International research challenge to tackle critical knowledge gaps in women’s cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/international-research-challenge-to-tackle-critical-knowledge-gaps-in-womens-cardiovascular-health/) - The Global Cardiovascular Research Funders Forum (GCRFF) – an international alliance of 12 major funders of cardiovascular research across the world, is inviting researchers to compete in a new research challenge that aims to transform the landscape of women’s cardiovascular health. Taking strides to better understand and improve women’s cardiovascular health around the world, the
- [Superbugs projected to cause nearly 40 million deaths by 2050: A Call to Action](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/superbugs-projected-to-cause-nearly-40-million-deaths-by-2050-a-call-to-action/) - A recent study from the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM) Project, published in The Lancet, warns that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) could directly lead to nearly 40 million deaths over the next 25 years. The research forecasts that AMR will result in 1.91 million annual deaths by 2050, a staggering increase from the 1.14 million
- [Takeaways from Draghi’s Plan for EU Pharma Revival](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/takeaways-from-draghis-plan-for-eu-pharma-revival/) - Mario Draghi’s recent report highlights the need for Europe to enhance its pharmaceutical sector’s global competitiveness through increased investment, streamlined regulation, and innovation. Here are the key takeaways: Increased Investment in R&D: Draghi emphasises that Europe’s lag in pharmaceutical innovation stems from insufficient R&D funding. In 2022, European governments allocated €11.2 billion to health research,
- [The European Commission recommends stronger measures on smoke-free environments](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/the-european-commission-recommends-stronger-measures-on-smoke-free-environments/) - The European Commission has recommended stronger measures to protect people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke and aerosols by revising the Council Recommendation on smoke-free environments. The updated initiative encourages Member States to expand smoke-free policies to key outdoor areas such as playgrounds, amusement parks, swimming pools, and transport stops. These areas are particularly
- [Scotland Becomes First UK Nation to Ban Single-Use Vapes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/scotland-becomes-first-uk-nation-to-ban-single-use-vapes/) - On 25 September 2024, the Scottish Parliament unanimously approved the draft Environmental Protection (Single-use Vapes) (Scotland) Regulations 2024, making Scotland the first UK nation to officially ban disposable e-cigarettes. The ban addresses health concerns linked to single-use vapes, which often contain high levels of addictive nicotine and toxic chemicals. With this regulation, Scotland aims to
- [EU4Health Civil Society Alliance Urges President von der Leyen to Prioritise Health in Upcoming Commissioner Nomination](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/eu4health-civil-society-alliance-urges-president-von-der-leyen-to-prioritise-health-in-upcoming-commissioner-nomination/) - On 25 September 2024, the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance, representing over 30 health organisations, submitted a letter to President Ursula von der Leyen. The letter expresses collective concerns regarding the upcoming nomination for the next Commissioner for Health. The Alliance emphasised the need to prioritise health in the new European Commission and European Parliament mandates.
- [New Commissioner designate for Health is Hungarian Olivér Várhelyi](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/new-commissioner-designate-for-health-is-hungarian-oliver-varhelyi/) - Currently, Mr Várhelyi is a Commissioner in the Von der Leyen Cabinet, holding responsibilities for neighbourhood policy and enlargement. His nomination comes as a surprise to the Brussels health community, as he has no prior experience in this field. Although he is theoretically apolitical, he certainly has the backing of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.
- [EHN Members activities on World Heart Day 2024](https://ehnheart.org/activities/ehn-campaigns/world-heart-day-2024/ehn-members-activities-on-world-heart-day-2024/) - EHN Members activities on World Heart Day 2024 Discover EHN Members activities on World Heart Day 2024. Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke's Heart Failure Campaign The Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS) has recently launched its Heart Failure Campaign in conjunction with World Heart Day, aiming to educate the public about heart failure
- [EHN Members activities on International Women's Day 2024](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/international-womens-day-2024-the-ehn-meps-call-for-gender-equity-in-cardiovascular-research/ehn-members-activities-on-international-women039s-day-2024/) - EHN Members activities on International Women's Day 2024 Discover EHN Members activities on International Women's Day 2024. Spanish Heart Foundation
- [World Heart Day 2024: EHN Calls for Urgent EU Action on Cardiovascular Health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/world-heart-day-2024-ehn-calls-for-urgent-eu-action-on-cardiovascular-health/) - 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
- [Letter from the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance to President Ursula von der Leyen](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/letter-from-the-eu4health-civil-society-alliance-to-president-ursula-von-der-leyen/) - The EU4Health Civil Society Alliance, representing a coalition of over 30 health organisations—including professionals, patients, citizens, and public health advocates—has submitted a letter to President Ursula von der Leyen. This correspondence seeks to address our collective concerns regarding the upcoming nomination for the next Commissioner for Health. In our electoral manifesto, we have emphasised the
- [European Heart Network and European Society of Cardiology Sign New MOU to Strengthen Partnership](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-heart-network-and-european-society-of-cardiology-sign-new-mou-to-strengthen-partnership/) - Brussels, 12 September 2024: The European Heart Network (EHN) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) have renewed their commitment to advancing cardiovascular health with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement builds on years of successful collaboration between the two organisations, aimed at improving cardiovascular health policies and practices across
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2024 - Highlights Video](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/aw-2024-film/)
- [Watch the Highlights from EHN Annual Workshop 2024: Video Now Available!](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/watch-the-highlights-from-ehn-annual-workshop-2024-were-excited-to-announce-that-the-highlights-video-from-the-ehn-annual-workshop-2024-which-took-place-over-three-days-in-amsterdam-this-p/) - This film captures the essence of the EHN Annual Workshop 2024, which took place over three days in Amsterdam this past May and June, showcasing highlights from key sessions, interviews with notable speakers, and the vibrant energy of the participants. Click here and relive the impactful moments from this year’s workshop, "United in Diversity," hosted
- [Anti-Vape Movement Gains Momentum Across Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/uk-doctors-call-for-stricter-vape-regulations-as-vaping-epidemic-grows/) - As concerns over the rise in youth vaping intensify, a wave of anti-vape sentiment is sweeping across Europe. Public health officials and governments are pushing for stricter regulations to curb the growing use of e-cigarettes among young people. This movement is gaining traction in the UK and throughout the European Union, where countries are adopting
- [EMA: Wegovy Shows Promise for Reducing Cardiovascular Risks](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/ema-wegovy-shows-promise-for-reducing-cardiovascular-risks/) - The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has concluded that Wegovy, Novo Nordisk’s weight-loss drug containing semaglutide, can help reduce major cardiovascular risks in overweight and obese individuals. The EMA's human medicines committee found that Wegovy lowers the incidence of non-fatal heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related deaths in people with established cardiovascular disease and a BMI of
- [UK Considers Stricter Outdoor Smoking Bans Amid Health Concerns](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/uk-considers-stricter-outdoor-smoking-bans-amid-health-concerns/) - The UK government is exploring stricter outdoor smoking bans in an effort to reduce pressure on the National Health Service, Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed. Leaked documents suggest the proposed measures could ban smoking in pub gardens, outdoor restaurants, and near hospitals and sports grounds. These actions may be included in an updated Tobacco &
- [City HeartBeat Index: London Leads European Cities in Tackling Cardiovascular Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/city-heartbeat-index/) - London has once again been recognised as a leader in combating cardiovascular diseases (CVD), topping the list of European cities in the World Heart Federation's latest City Heartbeat Index. This comprehensive report assessed 50 cities worldwide based on their efforts to understand, prevent, and address CVD across five key domains: social determinants, physical environment, health
- [ESC Congress 2024: Spotlight on 'Personalising Cardiovascular Care'](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/esc-congress-2024-spotlight-on-personalising-cardiovascular-care/) - The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) is set to host its highly anticipated ESC Congress 2024, scheduled to take place in London from August 31 to September 2. As the world's largest gathering of cardiovascular professionals, the ESC Congress will bring together thousands of healthcare experts, researchers, and industry leaders from around the globe to
- [CVD Risk Assessment Programmes - under review](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/cvd-risk-assessment-programmes-under-review-2/) - The EHN Screening Task Force is currently reviewing its 2014 paper on cardiovascular risk assessment programmes. The 2014 paper reviews the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of programmes aimed at identifying people at high risk of developing and dying prematurely from CVD. The update takes into account findings from recent studies on the topic. EHN recommends that the
- [New Call for Proposals on Reducing Cardiovascular Mortality in European Cities](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/new-call-for-proposals-on-reducing-cardiovascular-mortality-in-european-cities/) - The Innovative Health Initiative (IHI) has launched a call for proposals focused on heart disease in urban areas, specifically targeting the reduction of cardiovascular mortality across Europe. Topic 1: A City-Based Approach to Reducing Cardiovascular Mortality in Europe This initiative aims to develop scalable models, interventions, and practices to improve the management of cardiovascular diseases
- [Europe Remains the World's Top Alcohol Consumer, WHO Reports](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/europe-remains-the-worlds-top-alcohol-consumer-who-reports/) - The WHO has released a stark report highlighting that adults in the European Region consume an average of 9.2 liters of pure alcohol per year, making them the heaviest drinkers globally. The report, based on 2019 data, underscores that Europe faces the highest levels of alcohol consumption and related harms, with nearly 800,000 alcohol-related deaths
- [European Heart Network Supports "Call to Lead on NCDs"](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/european-heart-network-supports-call-to-lead-on-ncds/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) has signed "The Call to Lead on NCDs," a pivotal initiative spearheaded by the Noncommunicable Diseases Alliance (NCDA). This global appeal demands increased action against noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. The Call outlines three essential actions for governments: Mobilize Investment: Increase sustainable health funding and
- [Save the Date! EHN Annual Workshop 2025 in Stockholm and Programme Committee Meeting](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/save-the-date-ehn-annual-workshop-2025-in-stockholm-and-programme-committee-meeting/) - We are excited to announce that the European Heart Network’s 2025 Annual Workshop and General Assembly will take place in Stockholm, Sweden, from Monday to Wednesday, 16-18 June 2025. The event will be held in the heart of Stockholm, offering a vibrant and accessible venue for all attendees. The workshop is proudly hosted by the
- [Save the date! EHN Annual Workshop 2024 - United in Diversity](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/save-the-date-ehn-annual-workshop-2024-united-in-diversity/) - We are pleased to announce that EHN’s 2024 Annual Workshop and General Assembly will take place in Amsterdam, the Netherlands from 29 - 31 May 2024. The Annual Workshop will be hosted by the Dutch Heart Foundation on the occasion of its 60th anniversary and will take place at the Double Tree Hilton, located in
- [Projects & Research](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/)
- [Ursula von der Leyen Re-Elected as President of the European Commission with Ambitious Health and Cybersecurity Agenda](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/ursula-von-der-leyen-re-elected-as-president-of-the-european-commission-with-ambitious-health-and-cybersecurity-agenda/) - Ursula von der Leyen has secured a second term as President of the European Commission, promising a comprehensive policy program for 2024-2029. In her newly released political guidelines, von der Leyen emphasises preventive health, cybersecurity, and strategic technological advancements. One of the key highlights is her commitment to advancing preventive health measures, focusing particularly on
- [Health Ministers Gather in Budapest to Shape Future EU Health Policies - Focus on CVD Prevention](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/health-ministers-gather-in-budapest-to-shape-future-eu-health-policies-focus-on-cvd-prevention/) - On 25 July 2024, European health leaders convened in Budapest for an informal meeting to address pressing health issues affecting millions across the continent. Hosted by Hungary, the discussions focused on collaborative efforts to combat cardiovascular diseases, enhance organ donation and transplantation, and implement the European Health Data Space (EHDS). Collaborative Efforts Against Cardiovascular Diseases
- [EHN Participates in High-Level Cardiovascular Health Conference in Budapest](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/ehn-participates-in-high-level-cardiovascular-health-conference-in-budapest/) - The EHN was proud to participate in the High-Level Ministerial Conference on Cardiovascular Health, hosted by the Hungarian Ministry of Interior in Budapest on July 4, 2024. This event, aligned with Hungary’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, gathered Europe’s leading experts, policymakers, and key stakeholders to address the continent’s foremost health challenge:
- [Consumers and Pharmacists Criticise Drug Watchdog Over Ozempic Shortages](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/consumers-and-pharmacists-criticise-drug-watchdog-over-ozempic-shortages/) - Consumer and pharmacy groups are urging stricter actions against pharmaceutical companies for the ongoing shortages of weight loss and diabetes drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. They argue that companies' advertising practices, rather than users and prescribers, are driving surging demand and subsequent shortages. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recently advised health professionals not to prescribe
- [European Heart Network Welcomes Gregorio Sambataro as New EU Projects Officer](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/european-heart-network-welcomes-gregorio-sambataro-as-new-eu-projects-officer/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is thrilled to announce the newest addition to our team, Gregorio Sambataro! Gregorio joins us as the EU Projects Officer, bringing over a decade of experience working on various action grants awarded by European, national, and regional institutions. In his new role, Gregorio will coordinate EHN’s activities across four major
- [CVD Statistics](https://ehnheart.org/about-cvd/the-burden-of-cvd/) - CVD Statistics Cardiovascular disease is a group of disorders, all related to the heart and circulatory (vascular) system, including stroke. For some people, heart disease and stroke can cause sudden and unexpected death; for others, death comes after a sometimes lengthy period of ill health. CVD can have devastating consequences on the lives of individuals.
- [FILTERED Conference: "Challenging Big Industry Narratives: Alcohol, Tobacco, Unhealthy Food and Drinks: Population Measures and Policies"](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/events/save-the-date-filtered-conference-challenging-big-industry-narratives-alcohol-tobacco-unhealthy-food-and-drinks-population-measures-and-policies/) - Save the date! FILTERED Conference: "Challenging Big Industry Narratives: Alcohol, Tobacco, Unhealthy Food and Drinks: Population Measures and Policies" The conference aims to provide a platform for policymakers, advocates, researchers, patients, youth, and health practitioners to collectively address the challenges of reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by effectively managing their main risk factors. Date: 27–28 June 2024
- [EACH Summit “Vision to policy: Cardiovascular Health 12 months on” From 11 to 14 December 2023 in Strasbourg](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/events/save-the-date-each-summit-vision-to-policy-cardiovascular-health-12-months-on-from-11-to-15-december-in-strasbourg/) - Save the date! EACH Summit “Vision to policy: Cardiovascular Health 12 months on” From 11 to 15 December in Strasbourg The upcoming EACH Summit, “Vision to policy: Cardiovascular Health 12 months on” will take place from 11 to 14 December 2023 at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. It represents a unique opportunity to discuss the
- [Events Diary](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/events/)
- [Annual Report 2023](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2023/) - EHN proudly presents its 2023 Annual Report, reflecting on a year where challenges were transformed into opportunities and the organisation’s vision for a life free from avoidable cardiovascular disease (CVD) for every European was steadfastly pursued. Key Achievements in 2023 In October 2023, EHN launched its ambitious 7-year strategic plan, “Europe’s Cardiovascular Health Opportunities: Leadership for Change”
- [European Heart Network publishes its Annual Report 2023](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-heart-network-publishes-its-annual-report-2023/) - Brussels, 17 July 2024: In a year defined by both unprecedented challenges and groundbreaking advancements, the European Heart Network (EHN) has emerged stronger and more determined in its fight against cardiovascular diseases. EHN proudly presents its 2023 Annual Report, reflecting on a year where challenges were transformed into opportunities and the organisation’s vision for a
- [Fighting cardiovascular disease – a blueprint for EU action](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/publications-cvdblueprintforeuactions/) - The burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is greater than that of any other disease and the leading cause of death in Europe and in the world. To address this burden, the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology have developed a Blueprint for EU Action (without a hyperlink). Please click here for facts
- [EHN General Assembly 2023](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2023-2/) - EHN General Assembly 2023 - Mainz, Germany All information from the 2023 General Assembly can be found here. Agenda Minutes Combined supporting documents file
- [WHO publishes new report on Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/who-publishes-new-report-on-physical-activity/) - In its latest report on Physical Activity (PA), published in The Lancet, WHO is warning for the decreasing levels of PA world wide, with about 1 in 3 people worldwide (1.8 billion) at risk of disease from lack of PA. According to the report, between 2010 and 2022, physical inactivity levels increased by 5%. WHO
- [Ireland raises minimum age for tobacco sale to 21](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/ireland-raises-minimum-age-for-tobacco-sale-to-21/) - The measure will be applied gradually, meaning that those who are now over 18 will still be allowed to buy tobacco. For vapes, however, the minimum age will remain at 18. According to Irish health minister Stephen Donnelly, who announced the measure, U.S. evidence shows that increasing the age of sale to 21 "will act
- [European Heart Network Welcomes New Members](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-heart-network-welcomes-new-members/) - Brussels, 27 June 2024: The European Heart Network (EHN) is pleased to announce the addition of three new members to our network: the Czech Alliance for Cardiovascular Disease (CAKO), the Latvian Heart Health Promotion Alliance, and SPELS Onlus (Italy). Enhancing our network with these new members strengthens our commitment to improve cardiovascular health across Europe,
- [EHN welcomes proposal to prohibit flavoured heated tobacco products](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-welcomes-proposal-to-prohibit-flavoured-heated-tobacco-products/) - EHN welcomes the European Commission's latest proposal to prohibit the sale of flavoured heated tobacco products (HTPs) in the EU. The proposal to prohibit the sale of flavoured HTPs is a welcome and important step towards a smoke-free generation. EHN's 2021 position paper on HTPs shows that HTPs are particularly harmful to the cardiovascular system as they increase
- [New EHN paper on Heated Tobacco Products](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/new-ehn-paper-on-heated-tobacco-products/) - Heated Tobacco Products are particularly harmful to the cardiovascular system as they increase the heart rate and blood pressure (similar to conventional cigarettes). HTPs have similar devastating effects on cardiovascular health as conventional cigarettes. This information can be found in the new EHN position paper on Heated Tobacco products (HTPs). EHN's recommendations with regard to HTPs
- [Commercial determinants of health : new WHO publication](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/commercial-determinants-of-health-new-who-publication/) - On 12 June 2024, WHO European Region launched the new publication on commercial determinants of health. The report shows clearly that four corporate products – tobacco, ultra-processed foods, fossil fuels and alcohol are wholly or partly responsible for 2.7 million deaths per year in the WHO European Region. The report explains how consolidation of these
- [Council calls on Commission to keep Health as an EU priority](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/council-calls-on-commission-to-keep-health-as-an-eu-priority/) - On 21 June, the Health Council of the EU adopted Council conclusions on Health. The Council calls on the European Commission to keep the focus on Health as an EU priority. In the field of prevention, the Council invites the Commission and the Member States to strengthen EU policies on health promotion, including mental health
- [Commission Communication on Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/commission-communication-on-health/) - The European Commission adopted a communication on ‘The European Health Union: acting together for people's health’ on 22 May 2024. The document gives an overview of the achievements over the last 5 years. Under the topic of ‘Prevention’ the communication refers to the Healther Together Initiative and its 5 strands covered (one of these is
- [Strengthening efforts to protect children from direct marketing and sale of tobacco and nicotine products](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/strengthening-efforts-to-protect-children-from-direct-marketing-and-sale-of-tobacco-and-nicotine-products/) - Nine EU countries, under the guidance of Denmark, have adopted a statement (information note) to ask the European Commission to come with a proposal to protect children and young people from tobacco and nicotine products. The statement mentions that 'despite all our efforts tobacco remains the single greatest cause of premature death in the EU.
- [New Global Heart Journal Policy Brief: More People, More Active, More Often for Heart Health – Taking Action on Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/new-global-heart-journal-policy-brief-more-people-more-active-more-often-for-heart-health-taking-action-on-physical-activity/) - In May 2024, the Global Heart Journal published a policy brief on physical activity: "More People, More Active, More Often for Heart Health – Taking Action on Physical Activity". EHN CEO, Birgit Beger, contributed to this publication as a member of the World Heart Federation (WHF) Advocacy Committee. The World Heart Federation's (WHF) policy brief
- [Call for Third-Party Evaluation Sites: AI4HF Model in Heart Failure Management](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/call-for-third-party-evaluation-sites-ai4hf-model-in-heart-failure-management/) - The AI4HF open call for Third-Party Evaluation Sites is now online! This initiative seeks to assess the AI4HF model in heart failure (HF) management. Interested institutions are encouraged to apply. Overview: AI4HF Project: A 4-year EU-funded project developing AI tools for personalized HF care. Objective: Evaluate the AI model's usability, clinical integration, and utility in
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2024: United in Diversity](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-annual-workshop-2024-united-in-diversity-2/) - We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all who participated in the EHN Annual Workshop in Amsterdam. Your engagement and expertise in sharing skills, experiences, and best practices for CVD research, patient involvement, fundraising, AI, and advocacy were invaluable. Thank you for your dedication, which undoubtedly advances our collective mission to tackle cardiovascular disease in Europe.
- [Hungary Prioritises Cardiovascular Health in EU Council Presidency](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/hungary-prioritises-cardiovascular-health-in-eu-council-presidency/) - Hungary has announced its priorities for its six-month presidency of the European Council, placing a significant focus on cardiovascular health. According to the Hungarian Presidency’s Programme for the second half of 2024, "The health policy priority of the Presidency is action against cardiovascular disease, with planned Council Conclusions." This emphasis on cardiovascular health aligns with
- [Photo Gallery](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/photo-gallery/) - Below, you will find a gallery showcasing memorable moments from these wonderful days.
- [EHN Response to EU4Health Annual Work Programme 2025](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-eu4health-annual-work-programme-2025/) - EHN responded to the Targeted Stakeholders’ Consultation about EU4Health Annual Work Programme 2025. This targeted consultation is intended to seek the opinion of stakeholders about current and future Union health priorities and strategic orientations and on key health needs to be addressed through the EU4Health Annual Work Programme 2025, providing inputs for reflection on the
- [Science for the Prevention and Education of Heart Health (SPELS)](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/science-for-the-prevention-and-education-of-heart-health-spels/) - Science for the Prevention and Education of Heart Health (SPELS) Dedicated to enhancing public health outcomes in Italy, SPELS, an Italian non-profit organization established in 2001 and rebranded in 2011, focuses its work on advocating for cardiovascular health promotion and disease prevention. Operating with a non-profit agenda, it maintains independence from political and economic influences,
- [Latvian Heart Health Promotion Alliance](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/latvian-heart-health-promotion-alliance/) - Latvian Heart Health Promotion Alliance The Latvian Heart Health Promotion Alliance is a non-governmental organisation dedicated to advancing cardiovascular healthcare in Latvia. The alliance operates as a network comprising medical professionals, researchers, patient organisations, and various NGOs working in health and social issues.The alliance actively contributes to the development of Latvia's governmental cardiovascular health plan,
- [Czech Alliance for Cardiovascular Diseases (CAKO)](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/czech-alliance-for-cardiovascular-diseases-cako/) - Czech Alliance for Cardiovascular Diseases (CAKO) The Czech Alliance for Cardiovascular Diseases (CAKO, Česká Aliance pro kardiovaskulární onemocnění) was established in January 2023 as a patient organisation based in Czechia. It serves as a representative body for patients across various cardiovascular conditions, including dyslipidaemias, familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH), hypertension, heart attack survivors, individuals with chronic heart
- [S&D Targets Tobacco, Mental Health, and Drug Shortages for Next Mandate](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/sd-targets-tobacco-mental-health-and-drug-shortages-for-next-mandate/) - The S&D group has outlined its health priorities for the upcoming mandate, focusing on tobacco legislation, mental health strategies, and addressing drug shortages. These priorities are set to be taken up by the Parliament’s Committee on Environment, Public Health, and Food Safety (ENVI) over the next five years. Key legislative efforts include the Revision of
- [Commission Launches Project to Streamline Combined Studies](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/commission-launches-project-to-streamline-combined-studies/) - In a newly published report, the European Commission, in collaboration with national authorities, ethics committees, the European Medicines Agency, and stakeholders, has analyzed the current challenges in conducting combined studies and proposed solutions to streamline the regulatory landscape. The next phase of this project will explore the development of these proposed solutions. The aim of
- [Atrial fibrillation is associated with 2,6 years of loss in life-expectancy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/atrial-fibrillation-is-associated-with-26-years-of-loss-in-life-expectancy/) - A recent study showed that atrial fibrillation (AF) can be associated with a significant loss of life. The study looked at more than 200.000 patients diagnosed with AF and followed them over time. The study concluded that there was an expected loss of life-expectancy of 2,6 years, meaning that people with AF die sooner than
- [Cancer and atrial fibrillation tend to co-exist](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/cancer-and-atrial-fibrillation-tend-to-co-exist/) - A recent study in the European Heart Journal showed that atrial fibrillation (AT) and cancer occur more often together than on their own. In a group of people with AT, there tend to be more cancer over time, but similarly, in a group of people with cancer, AT tends to occur more over time. In
- [Estonia taxes soft drinks](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/estonia-taxes-soft-drinks/) - On 2 May, the Estonian Parliament passed the first reading of the sweet drink tax bill. The aim is to reduce sugar consumption and push industry towards reformulation of sweet drinks. The Estonian Health minister stressed that 'with today's price increases, we don't want to make basic food items like bread or yogurt more expensive,
- [WHO Europe launches new Salt and Hypertension report](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/who-launches-salt-and-hypertension-report/) - On 15 May, WHO launched the report 'Action on salt in hypertension : reducing CVD burden in WHO European Region.' During the launch of the report, WHO urged countries to set legal limits on the amount of salt in manufactured foods, restaurants and canteens. Nearly all WHO European regiona countries have a salt intake which
- [2023](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2023-2/) - 2023 Board Meetings 20 November 2023 Minutes Agenda 22 September 2023 Minutes Agenda 24 May 2023 Minutes Agenda 29 March 2023 Minutes Agenda
- [IAS Publishes New Film: Exploring the Nexus Between Alcohol and Cardiovascular Disease Risk](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/ias-publishes-new-film-exploring-the-nexus-between-alcohol-and-cardiovascular-disease-risk/) - The Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) recently published a film on the nexus between Alcohol and Cardiovascular Disease Risk. The film delves into which cardiovascular diseases alcohol causes, why observational studies often suggest moderate drinking is cardio-protective, and how the alcohol industry has tried to influence research on the topic.
- [Belgian Presidency Hosts EU Health Minister Meeting: Addressing Critical Health Challenges](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/belgian-presidency-hosts-eu-health-minister-meeting-addressing-critical-health-challenges/) - Under the auspices of the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the European Union, a crucial two-day informal meeting of health ministers was held on April 23 and 24. This high-stakes summit aimed to confront and strategize solutions for pressing health issues impacting citizens across the EU. Tackling three paramount themes, the discussions revolved around
- [UK Parliament Introduces Bill to Ban Cigarette Sales for Those Born After 2009](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/uk-parliament-introduces-bill-to-ban-cigarette-sales-for-those-born-after-2009/) - In a bid to tackle smoking among the younger generation, the UK government has unveiled a pioneering Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which has begun its legislative journey in Parliament. Spearheaded by Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the proposed law seeks to progressively increase the legal age for purchasing cigarettes, effectively prohibiting sales to individuals born after 2009.
- [Nutriscore helps consumers make healthier choices](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/nutriscore-helps-consumers-make-healthier-choices/) - A recent study published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity shows that displaying the Nutri-Score on food products can help consumers to make healthier food choices. The study is based on a randomized controlled trial involving 27,085 participants from the NutriNet-Santé cohort in France, randomly divided into three groups. Participants in
- [Antidepressant Use May Exacerbate CVD Risk in Major Depressive Disorder](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/antidepressant-use-may-exacerbate-cvd-risk-in-major-depressive-disorder/) - A recent study in the BMJ Mental Health showed that having major depressive disorder is linked with an increased risk of CVD. However, the use of antidepressants is linked with an even greater risk for CVD than major depression. While other studies have also seen the link between major depression and CVD, the reason why
- [Mortality rates and burden related with CVD have stopped decreasing in both the U.S.A. and Western Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/mortality-rates-and-burden-related-with-cvd-have-stopped-decreasing-in-both-the-u-s-a-and-western-europe/) - A study looking at mortality rates in both the United States and Western European countries, found that CVD-related mortality rates have stopped declining. While from 1990 to 2015 there was a continuous decrease, this has stopped plateaued or even increased 2015 to 2019. Reasons for the plateauing or increase are diverse. For example, smoking behaviour
- [European Parliament Endorses European Health Data Space (EHDS)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/european-parliament-endorses-european-health-data-space-ehds/) - In a significant development, the European Parliament has endorsed the provisional agreement on the European Health Data Space (EHDS) with resounding support. The EHDS, aimed at revolutionizing healthcare data management across the EU, garnered a substantial majority of 445 votes in favour, 142 against, and 39 abstentions during the final plenary vote. This endorsement represents
- [Belgian Council Presidency Proposes Reform of Pharma Legislation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/belgian-council-presidency-proposes-reform-of-pharma-legislation/) - The Belgian Council presidency has presented a fourth compromise text on pharmaceutical legislation, suggesting significant revisions to existing rules. Among these proposals is a plan to reduce drugmakers' mandatory warning period ahead of medicine supply disruptions. This compromise text, discussed in the Council working party on pharmaceuticals, outlines amendments primarily focused on addressing drug shortages
- [EU Parliament Approves New Rules for Substances of Human Origin (SoHO)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/eu-parliament-approves-new-rules-for-substances-of-human-origin-soho/) - European lawmakers have overwhelmingly approved new regulations governing substances of human origin (SoHO), marking a significant update to existing rules that have been in place for two decades. The legislation, finalized after inter-institutional talks in December, received strong support in the European Parliament, with 461 votes in favor, 56 against, and 66 abstentions. These updated
- [EHN suggestions to improve the SANT Committee Draft Report on non-communicable diseases (NCDs)](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-proposal-to-amend-the-sant-committee-draft-report-on-non-communicable-diseases-ncds/) - Suggestions proposed by the European Heart Network (EHN) to improve the DRAFT REPORT on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) (2023/2075(INI)) from the Subcommittee on Public Health (SANT).
- [Portugal adopts Nutri-Score](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/portugal-adopts-nutri-score/) - Portugal joins 7 other EU Member States (France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, The Netherlands and Spain) plus Switzerland in adopting the Nutri-Score front of pack labelling system as a public health system to promote healthy eating. According to the EU Farm to Fork Strategy, the Commission was supposed to present a proposal for front of pack
- [EHN Response to Commission Consultation on Revision of EU legislation on Food Information to Consumers](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-commission-consultation-on-revision-of-eu-legislation-on-food-information-to-consumers/) - The European Commission adopted the “Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system” on 20 May 2020, as part of the European Green Deal. This strategy aims to reduce the environmental and climate footprint of the EU food system and facilitate the shift to healthy and sustainable diets. The strategy
- [Interview with Manfred Weber - Towards a European Cardiovascular Health Plan](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/interview-with-manfred-weber-towards-a-european-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - The Chairman of the European People's Party's (EPP) - Manfred Weber - and the President of the European Society of Cardiology - Franz Weidinger - discussed the disparities, challenges, and opportunities in tackling cardiovascular disease across the European Union (EU). They emphasize the commitment to creating a European Cardiovascular Health Plan in the next term.
- [Presentation of EHN Poster at the European Commission's Webinar on the Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/presentation-of-ehn-poster-at-the-european-commissions-webinar-on-the-prevention-of-non-communicable-diseases/) - On 20th March 2024, the European Heart Network (EHN) Poster on the reduction of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) was selected to be presented at the European Commission's (EC) stakeholders webinar within the framework of the Healthier Together – EU non-communicable diseases initiative. As part of the Healthier Together – EU non-communicable diseases initiative, EU-level health associations
- [EU Mortality Data: CVD are the first cause of mortality in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eu-mortality-data-cvd-are-the-first-cause-of-mortality-in-the-eu/) - In 2021, circulatory diseases emerged as the primary cause of mortality within the European Union, accounting for 1.71 million total deaths, representing 32% of all deaths. Despite advancements in medical science, lifestyle factors such as smoking, unhealthy diet, and sedentary behavior continue to contribute significantly to the prevalence of circulatory diseases. Public health initiatives targeting
- [UK Government Introduces Landmark Bill for a Smoke-Free Generation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/uk-government-introduces-landmark-bill-for-a-smoke-free-generation/) - The United Kingdom is taking a bold step towards a healthier future with the introduction of a landmark bill aimed at phasing out smoking entirely. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the government's commitment to tackling the single biggest preventable cause of ill-health, disability, and death: smoking. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill, set to be presented
- [Pharma Package ready to be voted on the next European Parliament Plenary](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/pharma-package-ready-to-be-voted-on-the-next-european-parliament-plenary/) - After intense negotiations, the majority of Members of the European Parliament’s health committee have voted for the two legal texts – a directive and a regulation - comprising the pharmaceutical package. The Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) saw a majority in favour of the compromise proposals. This clears the way
- [MEPs vote to ban PFAS in toys](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/meps-vote-to-ban-pfas-in-toys/) - The European Parliament has taken a significant step towards safeguarding children's health by voting to ban per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) and bisphenols from toys. With a resounding majority of 603 votes in favour, five against, and 15 abstentions, MEPs endorsed the Toy Safety Directive, expanding existing bans on carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic substances
- [European Health Data Space (EHDS) Approval Update](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/european-health-data-space-ehds-approval-update/) - After extensive deliberation, EU lawmakers have reached an agreement on the European Health Data Space (EHDS), marking a significant milestone in EU health policy. The agreement addresses crucial aspects such as patient opt-out rights, data localization, and exceptions for public interest research. Citizens will have the right to opt out of health data sharing for
- [Microplastics and nanoplastics can cause earlier cardiovascular events](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/microplastics-and-nanoplastics-can-cause-earlier-cardiovascular-events/) - A study in the New England Journal Of Medicine, the leading medical journal in the world, showed that having micro and nano plastics in carotid artery plaque (which is when a patient has plaques, or fatty deposits, that limit the movement of blood through the heart and thus increases the chance of stroke) led to
- [Regular physical activity might prevent heart failure in older women](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/regular-physical-activity-might-prevent-heart-failure-in-older-women/) - A recent study published in JAMA Cardiology (Journal of the American Medical Association) showed that doing some light physical activity every day was associated with better heart health and reduced risk of heart failure in women. Not doing any physical activity was associated with a higher risk of heart failure. The study focused on older
- [Sexual minorities have more cardiovascular risks compared to heterosexual adults](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/sexual-minorities-have-more-cardiovascular-risks-compared-to-heterosexual-adults/) - A recent study published in JAMA Cardiology (Journal of the American Medical Association) showed that cardiovascular health among sexual minorities is generally worse compared to heterosexual adults. Especially bisexual women had worse scores on Body Mass Index (BMI) and cardiovascular health compared to heterosexual females. An exception is gay men, who had better cardiovascular health
- [Food Policy Coalition Letter on recommendations to the next European Commission](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/food-policy-coalition-letter-on-recommendations-to-the-next-european-commission/) - EHN, as a member of the Food Policy Coalition, calls on the next Commission to make the transition to sustainable food systems a high political priority. The next Commission must uphold a holistic food systems approach to policy-making, relying on a multi-DG governance structure, and bring forth the long-awaited proposal for a legislative framework for
- [EHN, together with 285 organisations urge Commission President to stick to Sustainable Food System Law timeline](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-together-with-285-organisations-urge-commission-president-to-stick-to-sustainable-food-system-law-timeline/) - Political resistance against sustainable food policies is threatening to derail the process for an EU Sustainable Food Systems Law. Against this backdrop, 286 organisations have issued an open letter urging European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to ensure the Commission proposal is presented by September 2023, as planned.
- [The European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health welcomes the EPP’s call for a ‘European Cardiovascular Health Plan’](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/the-european-alliance-for-cardiovascular-health-welcomes-the-epps-call-for-a-european-cardiovascular-health-plan/) - On 6th March 2024, the European People's Party (EPP) adopted its political manifesto for the 2024 EU elections. The manifesto includes the EPP's commitment to launch a European Cardiovascular Health Plan. In today's press release, the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) strongly welcomes and supports the EPP manifesto and the party's commitment to make
- [Health Taxes on HFSS Food](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/health-taxes-on-hfss-food/) - A recent (2024) review on Effectiveness and policy implications of health taxes on foods high in fat, salt has been published. The Review showed that while sugar-sweetened beverages have been the primary focus of such taxes, taxation of high-fat, salt, or sugar (HFSS) foods, and the impact of such taxes are less clear. The review
- [A new European Heart Health Charter for a new Europe](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/a-new-european-heart-health-charter-for-a-new-europe/) - Brussels, 29 September 2023: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally and costs the EU economy 282 billion euros per year. The European Heart Health Charter, launched today on World Heart Day, by the European Society of Cardiology and the European Heart Network, aims to improve cardiovascular health by preventing where possible and
- [Cardiovascular patients’ fears in a time of Coronavirus](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/cardiovascular-patients-fears-in-a-time-of-coronavirus/) - Patients with cardiovascular disease worry greatly about the effects of the Coronavirus on their health. With the outbreak of the Coronavirus, cardiovascular patients feel uncertain as to how they should relate to the general recommendations issued by governments or public health institutions. They need targeted advice, relevant to their particular diagnosis.
- [EHN publishes its Annual Report 2022](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/ehn-publishes-its-annual-report-2022/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) Annual Report 2022 encapsulates the challenges faced by Europe's heart and stroke patients, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. It also tells the story of how EHN has turned the ensuing permacrisis into opportunities whereby innovative solutions have been found to address the burdens and to accomplish its vision of a
- [International Women's Day 2024: the EHN & MEPs call for gender equity in cardiovascular research](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/international-womens-day-2024-the-ehn-meps-call-for-gender-equity-in-cardiovascular-research/) - On International Women's Day, the European Heart Network (EHN) affirms its commitment to advocating for gender equity in cardiovascular research. On International Women's Day, MEP Frances Fitzgerald (EPP, Ireland), MEP Sirpa Pietikäinen (EPP, Finland) and MEP Estrella Durá Ferrandis (S&D, Spain) are joining our Network and calling on European Union's policymakers to ensure that cardiovascular health
- [EACH Plenary Meeting discussed key achievements of 2023 and work plan for 2024](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/each-plenary-meeting-to-discuss-key-achievements-of-2023-and-work-plan-for-2024/) - On Friday 16th February, the plenary meeting of the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) was held to acknowledge the goals accomplished during last year and discuss the main objectives for the current year. 2023 Key Achievements 2023 was a remarkable year for the alliance; EACH can count quite remarkable accomplishments: For the first time
- [Ursula Von der Leyen is cutting unpopular files which are likely to cost votes in June's European election](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/ursula-von-der-leyen-is-cutting-unpopular-files-that-are-likely-to-cost-votes-at-junes-european-election/) - Ursula Von der Leyen recently announced that she will run for re-election as President of the European Commission (EC). As a result, she is now cutting unpopular files targeting files on health, climate and agriculture, which could cost her votes in June's European election. Cut on vote-losing policies: from sustainable food systems to smoke-free environments
- [Request to complete WHF Emerging Leaders group survey on the attitudes of health professionals towards influenza vaccination](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/request-to-complete-whf-emerging-leaders-group-survey-on-the-attitudes-of-health-professionals-towards-influenza-vaccination/) - The World Heart Federation (WHF) is requesting your support in completing a survey into the attitudes of physicians towards influenza vaccination in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). About the survey The survey is being carried out by one of the research groups established through the WHF Emerging Leaders project. It is open to all physicians
- [Save the date! Spanish Heart Foundation's conference on CVD in Women - "Mujer y Corazón" - will be held on March 6th](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/save-the-date-spanish-heart-foundation-conference-on-cvd-in-women-mujer-y-corazon-will-be-held-on-march-6th/) - On International Women's Day, the EHN member organisation Spanish Heart Foundation, in collaboration with the Spanish Society of Cardiology, is organising a conference on cardiovascular health in women. The conference will be held on March 6th, 2024 at Casa del Corazón in Madrid. The conference aims at spreading social and medical awareness of cardiovascular diseases
- [Save the date! Event on sport and female inclusion will be held on March 7th in Rome](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/save-the-date-event-on-sport-and-female-inclusion-will-be-held-on-march-7th-in-rome/) - On International Women's Day, the National Research Council of Italy (Cnr), in collaboration with the Italian Society for Cardiovascular Prevention (SIPREC), is organising an event on sport and female inclusion. The event will be held in Rome, Italy on March 7th and will focus on how to promote and spread health and well-being through physical
- [Calorie labelling on menus may help to reduce CVD.](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/calorie-labelling-on-menus-may-help-to-reduce-cvd/) - A study published in The Lancet concludes that calorie labelling might result in a reduction in obesity prevalence and cardiovascular disease mortality without widening health inequalities. According to the study, menu energy labelling can lead to a small decrease in energy purchased by consumers in the out-of-home food sector. The study also concludes that governments
- [European Commission prepares for an evaluation of the MDR and IVDR](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/european-commission-prepares-for-an-evaluation-of-the-mdr-and-ivdr/) - The European Commission is preparing for a targeted evaluation of the Medical Devices (MDR) and In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices (IVDR) regulations in 2024, three years ahead of the mandatory deadline of May 27, 2027. This early evaluation aims to address challenges and potential pitfalls that have plagued the implementation of these regulations, causing repeated
- [The Global Coalition on Aging releases a report on Antimicrobial Resistance](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/the-global-coalition-on-aging-releases-a-report-on-antimicrobial-resistance/) - In anticipation of a crucial high-level meeting at the United Nations General Assembly in September, a recent progress review has raised concerns about the pace of efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The Global Coalition on Aging (GCOA) has released a report card evaluating the initiatives of the 11 major global economies in the fight
- [ENVI Committee Endorses Revised Rules on Substances of Human Origin (SoHO)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/envi-committee-endorses-revised-rules-on-substances-of-human-origin-soho/) - In a significant development, the Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in the Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) voted in favour of adopting updated rules on Substances of Human Origin (SoHO). This legislative update, aimed at modernizing regulations that have been in place for two decades, focuses on harmonizing safety and quality standards,
- [EU reaches deal on air pollution targets](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/eu-member-states-delay-air-pollution-targets/) - The EU is in the process of reviewing its clean air targets. The Commission proposal causes tension between the European Parliament (in favour of the EU aligning its targets with the WHO guidelines by 2035) and the Council of Ministers (saying that more flexibility (read delay) is needed to implement the proposed targets. A provisional
- [EHN calls to protect children from the marketing of nutritionally poor food](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-calls-to-protect-children-from-the-marketing-of-nutritionally-poor-food/) - The European Union (EU) must adopt legislation to effectively protect children from the harmful impacts of the widespread, ubiquitous and insidious marketing of nutritionally poor food. This Call to protect children from the marketing of nutritionally poor food comes from a coalition of 20 European health, medical, consumer, child and family organisations, including the European Heart Network. It
- [Women gain more from regular physical activity than men](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/women-gain-more-from-regular-physical-activity-than-men/) - A recent study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology shows that women compared with men derived greater gains in all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk reduction from equivalent doses of leisure-time physical activity. These findings could enhance efforts to close the “gender gap” by motivating especially women to engage in any regular
- [Celebrate Valentine's Day with a healthy heart](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/celebrate-valentines-day-with-a-healthy-heart/) - On Valentine’s Day, we call for European policies that are conducive to a healthy heart to achieve a society free from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Heart healthy policies include: Food policy measures that make the healthy choice the default choice. Tobacco control measures that discourage smoking and the use of any type of tobacco products. Policy measures that
- [The public health community mourns the death of John Ryan, former DG SANTE Deputy Director General](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/the-public-health-community-mourns-the-death-of-john-ryan-former-dg-sante-deputy-director-general/) - After years of collaboration with our network, the passing of John Ryan deeply saddens us. As the former DG SANTE Deputy Director General, his contribution to the EU4Health Strategy and his efforts to the development of EU policies in public health, particularly non-communicable diseases, will always be remembered and cherished. The European Heart Network (EHN)
- [Smoke-free policies are no longer on the EU agenda – influence of the tobacco industry is omnipresent](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/smoke-free-policies-are-no-longer-on-the-eu-agenda-influence-of-tobacco-industry-is-omnipresent/) - In 2020, the Commission published the EU Beating Cancer Plan, including a series of measures in the field of tobacco control and smoke free generations. Sadly, none of these measures have been realized until now (although the end of 2023 was the deadline for the Commission’s planning). In the EU Beating Cancer Plan, the Commission
- [Public Health Community United Against Alcohol-Related Harm in the SANT Report on Non-Communicable Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-fao-report-on-the-state-of-food-and-agriculture/public-health-community-united-against-alcohol-related-harm-in-the-sant-report-on-non-communicable-diseases/) - As the European Parliament prepares for the vote on the Subcommittee on Health (SANT)’s Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) report, leading health organisations across the EU are actively highlighting the need for more robust public health policies in Europe. These policies should effectively address the harms caused by the alcohol industry and prioritise evidence-based approaches in public
- [PGEU Medicine Shortages Report: Europe’s drug shortages worsened in 2023](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/pgeu-medicine-shortages-report-europes-drug-shortages-worsened-in-2023/) - On 30 January 2024, the European Community Pharmacists lobby group (PGEU) published a new report of the yearly survey conducted to map the impact of medicine shortages across Europe. Despite new EU measures aimed at tackling this issue, the report highlights that drug shortages worsened in 2023 in most countries, and PGEU is now calling
- [New LSE-report on the life-saving potential of secondary prevention in CVD patients](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/new-lse-report-on-the-life-saving-potential-of-secondary-prevention-in-cvd-patients/) - Commissioned and funded by EFPIA (European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries), the new study by the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) investigates the impact of improved secondary prevention in patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease (CVD). The report highlights that better control and management of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood glucose and
- [Belgian Presidency's Key Focus: Advancing the European Health Data Space](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/belgian-presidencys-key-focus-advancing-the-european-health-data-space/) - As Belgium assumes the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU from January 1 to June 30, 2024, one of its top priorities lies in greenlighting the European Health Data Space (EHDS). The EHDS is set to transform the landscape of healthcare data management with a dual-purpose approach. The first facet, termed "primary use,"
- [European Health Union is better prepared for health threats, reports reveal](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/european-health-union-is-better-prepared-for-health-threats-reports-reveal/) - In a significant development, two reports recently published underscore the European Union's commitment to fortifying its health systems against potential crises, demonstrating a proactive response to emerging health threats. The 2023 State of Health Preparedness Report and the State of Health in the EU Report collectively provide insights into the strides made and areas requiring
- [Study supporting the monitoring of availability of medical devices on the EU market](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/study-supporting-the-monitoring-of-availability-of-medical-devices-on-the-eu-market/) - The European Commission's Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE), together with the European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA), has initiated a commissioned study titled "Supporting the Monitoring of Medical Device Availability on the EU Market." Commencing in December 2022 and spanning 36 months until December 2025, the study is entrusted to a
- [EHN patient spotlight: Wendy Davis and her longstanding commitment to patient empowerment in Artificial Intelligence for cardiovascular care](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/ehn-patient-spotlight-wendy-davis-and-her-longstanding-commitment-to-patient-empowerment-in-artificial-intelligence-for-cardiovascular-care/) - Wendy Davis is a patient consultant who started collaborating with EHN in 2022 on the EU-funded Horizon Europe project, AIDAVA (“AI-powered Data Curation and Publishing Virtual Assistant"). After experiencing heart failure and undergoing open heart surgery at a young age, Wendy realized the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (Al) in cardiovascular care and started advocating for patient empowerment
- [Challenges for the Medical Devices Industry as EU AI Act nears Implementation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/challenges-for-the-medical-devices-industry-as-eu-ai-act-nears-implementation/) - The medical devices industry voices disappointment and concern following the recent political agreement on the European Union's Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act, asserting that it falls short in addressing sector-specific worries. The Act agreed upon last Friday raises apprehensions within the medical devices industry about potential duplication and confusion in compliance. Viktoriia Shportiuk, Senior Manager for
- [EACH Exhibition in Strasbourg sparks Momentum for Cardiovascular Health in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/each-exhibition-in-strasbourg-sparks-momentum-for-cardiovascular-health-in-europe/) - The EACH (European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health) Exhibition was held at the European Parliament (EP) in Strasbourg from 11-14 December. Colleagues and patients representing various corners of the European Union gathered in Strasbourg for crucial meetings with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), focusing on cardiovascular health in their respective countries and the pressing need
- [The EU must vote to create a health plan that tackles the biggest killer](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/the-eu-must-vote-to-create-a-health-plan-that-tackles-the-biggest-killer/) - Strasbourg, 8 December 2023 – Members of Parliament (MEPs) at 2023’s ending plenary session, 11-14 December, are being urged to prioritise health and help defeat the continent’s most pervasive health threat: cardiovascular disease (CVD). Leading the call is a grouping of 18 partners making up the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH). They emphasise an
- [OECD report on CVD and Diabetes](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/oecd-report-on-cvd-and-diabetes/) - Please click here for the EHN statement on the OECD report "Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes: Policies for Better Health and Quality of Care", published 17 June 2015.
- [Dutch Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/dutch-heart-foundation/) - Dutch Heart Foundation The Dutch Heart Foundation wants to detect and treat cardiovascular diseases at an earlier stage. We look for solutions for a strong heart. We are a non-profit organization. To achieve our goals, we are completely dependent on donations from individuals and companies. A healthy heart for everyone, for now and in the
- [New FAO report on the State of Food and Agriculture](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-fao-report-on-the-state-of-food-and-agriculture/) - On 6 November 2023, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) published a new report on the State of Food and Agriculture. This edition’s report focuses on the true cost of agri-food systems, that is, the impacts that these have on our health, the environment and society. Conducting a national-level assessment of
- [EU-funded JACARDI project launched to address cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/eu-funded-jacardi-project-launched-to-address-cardiovascular-diseases-and-diabetes-in-europe/) - On 27 November 2023, the Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes (JACARDI) project was launched in Rome by the Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), the main center for research, control and technical-scientific consultancy in the field of public health in Italy. The project scope is to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)
- [New PhD position in cardiovascular research at the Karolinska Institute](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/new-phd-position-at-the-karolinska-institute/) - The Karolinska Institute is inviting applications for a Doctoral (PhD) student position in cardiovascular research within the Department of Medicine, in Solna (Sweden). The project's focus is red blood cell-mediated endothelial dysfunction in type 2 diabetes. Applications are open until January 9, 2024. Doctoral Project The aim of this project is to characterize the function
- [Heart failure patient shares first-hand experience participating in the AI4HF project](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/heart-failure-patient-shares-first-hand-experience-participating-in-the-ai4hf-project/) - Sheilagh Foley shares her first-hand experience participating in the first in-person workshop for the EU-funded AI4HF project in September 2023. The workshop was held in Brussels and co-organised by the European Heart Network (EHN) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Sheilagh, a columnist for the Irish Medical Times and an EHN patient consultant, was
- [EACH Summit fast approaching](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/each-summit-fast-approaching/) - The EACH Summit will take place in a weeks time, from 11-14 December, at the European Parliament in Strasbourg. The European Heart Network (EHN) and the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) community will be present to meet with MEPs, calling for a comprehensive EU policy response to improve the cardiovascular health of European citizens.
- [AIDAVA Project Launches Animated Video](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/projects/aidava-project-launches-animated-video/) - An AI powered virtual assistant delivering personal health data records that benefits patients and healthcare professionals: AIDAVA Project Launches Animated Video Integrated, high-quality personal health data (PHD) represents a potential wealth of knowledge for healthcare systems, but there is no reliable conduit for this data to become interoperable, AI-ready and reuse-ready at scale across institutions
- [Update on European Health Data Space (EHDS)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/update-on-european-health-data-space-ehds/) - In a pivotal step towards transforming health data management in the European Union, the EHDS legislation has successfully cleared the joint health and civil liberties committees (ENVI and LIBE) in the European Parliament. These committees are responsible for scrutinizing the legislation on Environment, Public Health, and Food Safety (ENVI) and Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home
- [World Heart Awards 2024](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/world-heart-awards-2024/) - Started in 2018, the World Heart Awards is an initiative organized by the World Heart Federation (WHF) aimed at celebrating and rewarding those individuals and organisations that stand out in the field of cardiovascular health. There are three different award categories to make your nominations: Lifetime Achievement Award – to be awarded to one or
- [New EEA’s briefing on the harm to human health from air pollution in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/new-eeas-briefing-on-the-harm-to-human-health-from-air-pollution-in-europe/) - On 27 November 2023, the European Environmental Agency (EEA) published a new briefing on the harm to human health caused by air pollution, the prevalent environmental risk factor in Europe today. Burden of disease EEA’s briefing assesses the harm caused to human health by three key air pollutants: fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxide and ozone.
- [Serbian Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/serbian-heart-foundation/) - Serbian Heart Foundation Coming soon Learn more about this member Organisation Information Website: Coming soon Tel: + 381 11 362 90 55 Address: Fondacija Srbije za Vase SrceBulevar Oslobodjenja 56a (Hotel M)11000 BeogradSerbia Contact information Contact name: Dr Miodrag C. Ostojic Email: mostojic2003[at]yahoo.com Tel: + 381 11 361 36 53
- [Foundation of Health and Heart, Bosnia & Herzegovina](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/bosnia-herzegovina-foundation-of-health-and-heart/) - Foundation of Health and Heart, Bosnia & Herzegovina The mission of the Foundation of Health and Heart is to timely and professionally organize the conduction of the Program for Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Heart Federation (WHF), the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Learn more about this
- [Faroese Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/faroese-heart-foundation/) - Faroese Heart Foundation Coming soon Learn more about this member Organisation Information Website: https://hjartafelag.fo/ Tel: +298 219938 Address: Faroese Heart FoundationPostbox 3120FO-110 TórshavnFaroe Islands Via Denmark Contact information Contact name: Ms Eyðna Joensen, Chairperson Email: eydnajmj[at]gmail.com Tel: +29 8313422
- [New EHN paper on CVD Risk Assessment Programmes](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/new-ehn-paper-on-cvd-risk-assessment-programmes-3/)
- [WHF publishes a policy brief with guidelines for policy makers on physical activity](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/whf-publishes-a-policy-brief-with-guidelines-for-policy-makers-on-physical-activity/) - In the policy brief, which also makes reference to the EHN paper on physical activity and to the EHN paper on rehabilitation, WHF outlines the health benefits of regular physical activity and includes recommendations on effective interventions for increasing population levels of physical activity. Whereas physical activity strategies are relevant in all countries, this paper
- [AI and Digital Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/)
- [WHO is looking for experts on marketing of unhealthy foods to children](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/who-is-looking-for-experts-on-marketing-of-unhealthy-foods-to-children/) - The WHO Regional Office for Europe (WHO/Europe) is seeking experts to serve as members on the Technical Advisory Group on brand marketing and restricting its use in the marketing of unhealthy foods to children (further called TAG on brand marketing or TAG-BM for ease). This call for experts provides information about the TAG-BM, the expert profiles
- [EACH launches its Social Media Campaign “Check Your Numbers”](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/each-launches-its-social-media-campaign-check-your-numbers/) - In September 2023, the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) launched its social media strategy, “Check your Numbers”, to spread awareness of the burden of CVD in Europe and stimulate responses from EU policymakers in order to improve the cardiovascular health of EU citizens. “Numbers don’t lie. Take charge of your cardiovascular health.” First formed
- [Ban on nicotine pouches in Belgium from 1 October](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/ban-on-nicotine-pouches-in-belgium-from-1-october/) - Starting from 1 October 2023, the Belgian government enforced a complete ban on the sale of nicotine pouches. This is the result of the anti-tobacco campaign endorsed by the Belgian Health Minister, Frank Vandenbroucke, and other 23 ministries, which sets out to achieve a Smoke-Free generation in Belgium by 2040. Protecting the health of young
- [Freedom from nicotine and tobacco: WHO guide for schools](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/freedom-from-nicotine-and-tobacco-who-guide-for-schools/) - WHO has published a toolkit to help school administrators, teachers and administrative staff to support them with a step-by-step approach in developing and implementing the nicotine and tobacco-free school policy. It is intended for schools with students from 11 years and above. The guide includes tobacco and nicotine products (so including e-cigarettes and heated tobacco
- [TAXINOMISIS Project: Developing a new risk stratification model for patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/taxinomisis-project-a-multidisciplinary-approach-for-the-development-of-a-new-risk-stratification-model-for-patients-with-asymptomatic-carotid-artery-stenosis/) - The EU-funded project, TAXONOMISIS, harnesses the power of AI and advances the idea of personalised medicine in patients with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (ACAS). This six-year project is due to finish in December 2023. ACAS may cause future stroke, and current risk stratification for patients with ACAS is largely based on outdated randomized-controlled trials that
- [EHN Paper on Cardiac & Stroke Rehabilitation](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/ehn-paper-on-cardiac-stroke-rehabilitation/) - On the 25th of January, the European Heart Network published its paper on cardiac and stroke rehabilitation programmes. This paper aims at providing information to stakeholders about rehabilitation programmes for patients that have suffered a cardiac event or a stroke.
- [Attendee List for EACH Summit and exhibition in Strasbourg, 12-13 December 2023](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/attendee-list-for-each-summit-and-exhibition-in-strasbourg-12-13-december-2023/) - As reported in our previous newsletter, EACH is organizing an exhibition and event entitled, “Vote Cardiovascular Health 2024”, in the European Parliament in Strasbourg from 11-14 December 2023. During this event, we will stress the importance of having a European Cardiovascular Health Plan which is envisaged to become a major topic for the European Parliament
- [European Heart Health Charter](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/european-heart-health-charter/) - European Heart Health Charter The European Society of Cardiology and the European Heart Network, with the support of the European Commission and the World Health Organization – Regional Office for Europe, have developed the first European Heart Health Charter designed to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Europe.Each year, CVD kills over 4.35 million people in
- [European Commission’s plan to combat drug shortages](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/european-commissions-plan-to-combat-drug-shortages/) - The European Commission published a communication with new measures to tackle the pressing issue of drug shortages, encompassing both immediate and long-term measures, and hinting at potential future legislation. Key initiatives include synchronized procurement of medicines, innovative stockpiling methods, a cutting-edge digital platform for monitoring drug supply and demand, and subsidies to support the production
- [WHO’s regulatory considerations on artificial intelligence for health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/whos-regulatory-considerations-on-artificial-intelligence-for-health/) - The World Health Organization (WHO) published a set of regulatory considerations on artificial intelligence for the health domain. This publication underscores the urgency and necessity of establishing a robust framework to ensure the safety, efficacy, and ethical deployment of AI systems in healthcare. WHO's guidelines place a strong emphasis on transparency and accountability, advocating for
- [EHN launches new seven-year Strategic Plan 2023-2030](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/ehn-launches-new-seven-year-strategic-plan/) - Brussels, 30 October 2023: Today, the European Heart Network (EHN) launches its new Strategic Plan 2023-2030. The new plan outlines how this Brussels-based alliance of European foundations and associations representing patients and people in Europe will be a key driver of leadership for change in cardiovascular health across Europe and lays out its renewed vision,
- [EHN Strategy 2023-2030](https://ehnheart.org/who-we-are/strategy-2019-2023/) - EHN Strategy 2023 - 2030 Europe's Cardiovascular Health Opportunities: Leadership for Change EHN’s seven-year strategic plan is a central governance, management, and communications tool and will enable stakeholders to understand and contribute towards EHN’s vision, mission and key goals. EHN’s vision is that “every person in Europe can grow up and live in a sustainable
- [Annual Report 2022](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2022/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) Annual Report 2022 encapsulates the challenges faced by Europe’s heart and stroke patients, in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. It also tells the story of how EHN has turned the ensuing permacrisis into opportunities whereby innovative solutions have been found to address the burdens and to accomplish its vision of a
- [Mission & Vision](https://ehnheart.org/who-we-are/mission-vision/) - Mission The European Heart Network (EHN) is a Brussels-based alliance of foundations and associations dedicated to preventing cardiovascular diseases (CVD), representing patient interests and funding research throughout Europe. EHN’s mission is to play a leading role, on behalf of patients and people in Europe, in promoting cardiovascular health and the prevention and reduction of cardiovascular
- [Annual Report 2021](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2021/) - During the second challenging year of the pandemic, EHN together with its members, took the initiative to bring cardiovascular health higher on the European policy agenda. EHN is therefore pleased to present its Annual Report 2021. The Covid-19 pandemic caused a lot of disruption across Europe, however it also put the spotlight on health and sparked
- [Heart Failure and Cardiovascular Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/heart-failure-and-cardiovascular-diseases/) - Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in Europe as well as in the European Union (EU), where it is responsible for 3.9 and 1.8 million deaths respectively every year. CVD mortality is falling in most European countries. However, declining death rates do not go hand in hand with declining morbidity. The
- [European Restart a Heart Day Symposium](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-activities/reports/european-restart-a-heart-day-symposium/) - European Restart a Heart Day Symposium On 16/10/13, Laurent Louette, EHN Policy Officer, attended the symposium organised by the British Heart Foundation and the UK Resuscitation Council at the occasion of the first European Restart a Heart Day. Please find here a small report of the meeting and below the presentations of the different speakers: - Mickey
- [Reports](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-activities/reports/) - Reports EHN attends WHO European meeting of National NCD Directors and Programme Managers - On 8-9 June 2017, EHN attended the WHO European meeting of National NCD Directors and Programme Managers. EU seminar on trans fatty acids - On 4 April 2016 the Hungarian Permanent Representation to the EU organised an EU seminar on trans
- [Public Health Impact of Investor-State Dispute](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-activities/reports/public-health-impact-of-investor-state-dispute/) - Public Health Impact of Investor-State Dispute On December the 3rd 2013, Susanne Logstrup, EHN Director participated in a meeting on the public health impact of investor-state dispute settlement. The event was organised by MEPs Linda McAvan (S&D, UK) and Carl Schlyter (Greens, SE). Please find here below the report of the meeting as well as the presentations
- [LiveWell for Life workshop on healthy, sustainable diets](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-activities/reports/livewell-for-life-workshop-on-healthy-sustainable-diets/) - LiveWell for Life workshop on healthy, sustainable diets On 11-12 June 2014, LiveWell for life, together with Friends of Europe, organised a two day workshop on "Facilitating the adoption of sustainable, healthy diets in the EU". Marleen Kestens attended the workshop on behalf of EHN. The short synopsis of the meeting can be found here. The document
- [Expert Meeting on Added Sugars](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-activities/reports/expert-meeting-on-added-sugars/) - Expert Meeting on Added Sugars On 18 January, DG Santé organised an expert meeting on added sugars. Marleen Kestens and Mike Rayner attended on behalf of EHN. The following documents can be found here Agenda of the meeting Short report from the meeting Presentation by the Dutch Council Presidency Presentation by Nestlé Presentation by FoodDrinkEurope
- [EHN Activities](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-activities/) - EHN Activities Find here all the meetings' reports and presentations made by EHN at public meetings.
- [EHN Presentations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/ehn-activities/ehn-presentations/) - EHN Presentations EU seminar on trans fatty acids - On 4 April 2016 the Hungarian Permanent Representation to the EU organised an EU seminar on trans fatty acids. Susanne Lángstrup, Director of the EHN, attended the meeting and outlined the EHN position on trans fatty acids. Food Product Improvement: make the healthy choice easy -
- [Member Documents](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/) - Member Documents Lobby Documents Food Taxation Dossier Marketing to Children Dossier Food Reformulation Dossier Trade and Health Dossier Corporate Sponsorship CVD Patients Charter Other Documents
- [Other documents](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/other-documents/) - Other documents Overview of the groups/projects that EHN is involved in Heart Foundations work plans for 2016 EHN Work Programme 2016 Heart foundations work plans 2015 EHN Evaluation 2015 - Final Report; an evaluation of EHN has been carried out by consultants Blomeyer & Sanz with both internal and external stakeholders. Please find the final
- [EHN Strategy Paper (May 2009)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/other-documents/ehn-strategy-paper-may-2009/) - EHN Strategy Paper (May 2009) Please click below to read the EHN Strategy Paper and appendices, as approved by the EHN members at its Annual General Assembly held in Amsterdam on 14 May 2009. EHN Strategy Paper 2010-2013 Appendix 1 Matrix Appendix 2 Financial Plan Appendix 2 Subscriptions Appendix 2 Principles for calculation
- [Public chooses research priorities for Dutch Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/other-documents/public-chooses-research-priorities-for-dutch-heart-foundation/) - Public chooses research priorities for Dutch Heart Foundation The Dutch Heart Foundation surveyed the public, scientists, patients and carers for their preference on cardiovascular research priorities. Based on the results, the Dutch Heart Foundation will now prioritise its research on these 5 domains: - earlier recognition of cardiovascular disease - cardiovascular disease in women -
- [Heart foundations work plans 2015](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/other-documents/heart-foundations-work-plans-2015/) - Heart foundations work plans 2015 In January 2015, EHN members were asked to share information about their annual workplans for 2015-2016. Eight EHN member organisations responded to the questionnaire and shared their work plans for 2015-2016 with EHN. You can find two documents here: The compiled version of these work plans. A summary of the common/different fields EHN member
- [First AI4HF workshop with EHN patient consultants held in Brussels](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/projects/first-ai4hf-workshop-with-ehn-patient-consultants-held-in-brussels/) - The first AI4HF project workshop with patients with heart failure (HF) was co-organised by the European Heart Network (EHN) and the European Society of Cardiology in Brussels, Belgium on 15 September. Fourteen HF patients recruited by EHN Members in Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Romania participated in a one-day interactive workshop to support the
- [Heart Foundations work plans for 2016](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/other-documents/heart-foundations-work-plans-for-2016/) - Heart Foundations work plans for 2016 All members of the European Heart Network were asked to share information about their work plans for 2016. Here is the overview of all the work plans which were sent to the EHN secretariat. It allows members to see which heart foundations are working in the fields you are interested in.
- [European Heart Health Charter - 2023 Revision](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-heart-health-charter-2023-revision/) - Brussels, 29 September 2023: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally and costs the EU economy 282 billion euros per year. The European Heart Health Charter, launched today on World Heart Day, by the European Society of Cardiology and the European Heart Network, aims to improve cardiovascular health by preventing where possible and
- [Ensuring the full potential of EHDS: Stakeholders’ recommendations on how to make the digital transformation a success across Europe](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/ensuring-the-full-potential-of-ehds-stakeholders-recommendations-on-how-to-make-the-digital-transformation-a-success-across-europe/) - In a joint statement, EHN joins 34 stakeholders in welcoming the proposal for a Regulation on the European Health Data Space (EHDS; COM 197/2022). This regulation has the potential to harness digital health for better health outcomes and to be an enabler for important EU health initiatives such as the Healthier Together Non-Communicable Diseases initiative. “It
- [AIDAVA: New EU Research Project Launches to Automate Curation and Publishing of Personal Health Data Through Artificial Intelligence](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/projects/aidava-new-eu-research-project-launches-to-automate-curation-and-publishing-of-personal-health-data-through-artificial-intelligence/) - The European Heart Network will collaborate with 13 partners over the next four years in the new EU-funded research project, AIDAVA (AI-powered Data Curation & Publishing Virtual Assistant). Integrated, high-quality personal health data is a critical resource to ensure quality and continuity of care for patients, and to enhance the secondary use of this data.
- [HYPERMARKER: Horizon Europe grant for research into better, personalised treatment for high blood pressure](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/projects/sed-diam-nonumy-eirmod-tempor-invidunt-ut-labore-et/) - An international research team received a 10 million euro grant from Horizon Europe and UK Research and Innovation to roll out the HYPERMARKER project. The HYPERMARKER team, including EHN, will develop and test tools supported by artificial intelligence that allow clinicians to select the best treatment for each individual patient with high blood pressure. The
- [Belgian Heart League](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/belgian-heart-league/) - Belgian Heart League The Belgian Heart League has been the national cardiovascular prevention organization for more than 50 years. Its goal is to reduce cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in the country, as well as to improve the quality of life of Belgians.The Belgian Heart League is aimed at the general public but also at patients
- [CVD Patients Charter](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/cvd-patients-charter/) - CVD Patients Charter The Charter for CVD Patients was drafted by EHN and its members which are patient organisations in the framework of the EU co-funded project EUROHEART II, of which the EHN was the main partner. Following the publication of the EHN Charter for European CVD Patients in January 2012, members agreed to take
- [Corporate Sponsorship](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/corporate-sponsorship/) - Corporate Sponsorship Guiding principles for engagement with corporate entities - On 4 June 2020 the EHN General Assembly adopted 'Corporate relationships - principles and guidance document'. EHN Guidelines on industry-sponsored events A LONG SPOON? Finding the balance between benefits and risks of Heart Foundations' engagements with food industry Guidelines on corporate relations and sponsorship &
- [Trade and Health Dossier](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/trade-and-health-dossier/) - Trade and Health Dossier TTIP, ISDS and the Implications for Irish Public Health Policy TTIP, international trade and cardiovascular health - EHN Paper The right to food: WHO report Unhealthy foods, non-communicable diseases and the right to health WTO Agreements on public health WHO resolutions on trade and health Will the next generation of preferential
- [Unhealthy foods, non-communicable diseases and the right to health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/trade-and-health-dossier/unhealthy-foods-non-communicable-diseases-and-the-right-to-health/) - Unhealthy foods, non-communicable diseases and the right to health Report of the WHO Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, Anand Grover Two documents are linked to this dossier the report on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable
- [The right to food: WHO report](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/trade-and-health-dossier/the-right-to-food-who-report/) - The right to food: WHO report Two publications from the WHO Special repporteur on the right to food. Report submitted by the Special Rapporteur on the right to food, Olivier De Schutter The transformative potential of the right to food, report prepared by Special Rapporteur Olivier de Schutter
- [TTIP, ISDS and the Implications for Irish Public Health Policy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/trade-and-health-dossier/ttip-isds-and-the-implications-for-irish-public-health-policy/ttip-isds-and-the-implications-for-irish-public-health-policy/) - TTIP, ISDS and the Implications for Irish Public Health Policy The Irish Cancer Society has prepared a report on TTIP, which concludes that the economic benefits from TTIP are too small or speculative to justify the associated social risks. It also recommends negotiating TTIP without any form of ISDS. Here is the link to the summary
- [Covid-19](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/) - Covid-19 EHN Annual Workshop Covid-19 Strategy Meeting 25 February 2021 EHN webinar on Covid-19 - 8 April 2020 Hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin in times of Covid-19 News from EHN members News on Research and EHN members The missing heart attacks WHO working group on NCDs and COVID-19
- [WHO working group on NCDs and COVID-19](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/who-working-group-on-ncds-and-covid-19/) - WHO working group on NCDs and COVID-19 To help increase the reach of WHO’s efforts to stop the COVID-19 pandemic and prepare for the future, the WHO NCD/WIN Working Group on COVID-19 and NCDs has been established. The working group will support efforts to strengthen the design and implementation of policies, including for resilient health systems
- [The missing heart attacks](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/the-missing-heart-attacks/) - The missing heart attacks People suffering heart attacks during the Coronavirus outbreak may be putting their lives at risk by delaying seeking medical help. In many European countries, people who show symptoms of heart attacks do not call an ambulance or go to the hospital. Data indicate that there is a decrease of up to
- [News on Research and EHN members](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/news-on-research-and-ehn-members/) - News on Research and EHN members This page contains information and updates from EHN members on Covid-19 and cardiovascular research. Latest studies: 7 September 2020, COVID-19 patients suffer long-term lung and heart damage but it can improve with time, Austrian study of 86 COVID-19 patients, click here for details. 27 July 2020, Outcomes of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging in
- [News from EHN members](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/news-from-ehn-members/) - News from EHN members This page contains information, opinion pieces and updates from EHN members on Covid-19. (15 October 2020) BHF commentary: Rise in excess heart and circulatory disease deaths in under 65s since pandemic began. Click here for details. (18 May 2020) A new article from the Netherlands, suggest that that cancelling and postponing cardiological care will lead
- [Hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin in times of Covid-19](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/hydroxychloroquine-and-azithromycin-in-times-of-covid-19/) - Hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin in times of Covid-19 American Heart Association guidance document on potentially serious risks to people with cardiovascular disease from the drug combination antimalarial medicine hydroxychloroquine and the antibiotic azithromycin. On 8 April, the American Heart Association, the American College of Cardiology and the Heart Rhythm Society, published a guidance document on potentially
- [EHN webinar on Covid-19 - 8 April 2020](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/ehn-webinar-on-covid-19-8-april-2020/) - EHN webinar on Covid-19 - 8 April 2020 On 8 April 2020 EHN organised a webinar for its members on Covid-19. Please find here the following documents: Agenda and key messages (report) of the meeting Presentation Rebecca Schouten (Dutch Heart Foundation): Covid-19 and cardiovascular research Presentation Christine Dehn (German Heart Foundation): How do we communicate with patients? Presentation Dideke Van
- [EHN Annual Workshop Covid-19 Strategy Meeting 25 February 2021](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/covid-19/ehn-annual-workshop-covid-19-strategy-meeting-25-february-2021/) - EHN Annual Workshop Covid-19 Strategy Meeting 25 February 2021 On 25 February EHN organised a Covid-19 Strategy Meeting for its members in the framework of the EHN Annual Workshop 2021. This is the first of a series of three Annual Workshop Meetings. The following documents are available Programme of the meeting Session 1: Vaccination and patient communication
- [Screening Task Force](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/screening-task-force/) - Screening Task Force About The EHN Screening Task Force brings together experts to review the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of programmes aimed at identifying people at high risk of developing and dying prematurely from CVD. The result of the work of the Task Force is a EHN Policy Paper published in January, recommending that the European
- [Fundraising topics discussed](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/fundraising-topics-discussed/) - Fundraising topics discussed Heart Foundations and Fundraising Income surveys The European context presentation by Ellen Janssens on fundraising revenue in heart foundations; EHN seminar of 24-25 May 2016, Edinburgh, UK EHN members income survey; presentation by Marleen Kestens at the EHN seminar of 23 May 2012 - Leuven, Belgium Survey of EHN members incomes; presentation by Richard
- [EHN Fundraising Network](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/) - EHN Fundraising Network Fundraising Topics Discussed Fundraisers seminar - Puglia, Italy (21 May 2019) Fundraisers seminar - Lucerne, Switzerland (30 May 2018) Fundraisers workshop - Edinburgh, Scotland (24 -25 May 2016) Digital Fundraising webinar (12 December 2014) Fundraisers training session (21 May 2014) Webinar on cooperation with Unilever (21 January 2014) Fundraisers' webinar (13 December
- [Social Media Toolkit](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/social-media/) - Social Media Toolkit EHN Accounts EHN X (formerly Twitter): @ehnheart EHN LinkedIn: European Heart Network (coming soon) EHN Logo Download EHN logo with tagline (RGB) Download EHN logo without tagline (RGB) EHN Member Accounts Below you will find a list of EHN Member organisations with social media accounts. If your organisation has social media channels
- [Fundraisers' meeting (23 May 2012)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/fundraisers-meeting-of-23-may-2012/) - Fundraisers' meeting (23 May 2012) On 23 May 2012 EHN organised its first fundraisers' meeting at its annual workshop in Leuven. Please find here the links to the following documents: agenda of the meeting presentation Marleen Kestens on EHN members income survey short summary of the meeting list of participants
- [Fundraisers' webinar (13 December 2012)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/fundraisers-webinar-13-december-2012/) - Fundraisers' webinar (13 December 2012) On 13 December 2012 EHN organised a fundraisers' webinar on the subject of donations (most important source of income for most heart foundations). The focus was on direct mailings. Two presentations were given, by Aidan Stacey from the Irish Heart Foundation, and Kristina Sparreljung from the Swedish Heart Lung Foundation.
- [Webinar on cooperation with Unilever (21 January 2014)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/webinar-on-cooperation-with-unilever-21-january-2014/) - Webinar on cooperation with Unilever (21 January 2014) On 21 January 2014, EHN organised a webinar on cooperation with Unilever for its member organisatons. Please find here the following documents: Agenda Presentation Dutch Heart Foundation Presentation British Heart Foundation EHN members and their cooperation with Unilever
- [Fundraisers training session (21 May 2014)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/fundraisers-training-session-21-may-2014/) - Fundraisers training session (21 May 2014) On 21 May EHN organised a training session for fundraisers, which took place on Bucharest, Romania. Please find here the summary of the meeting and the presentation made by Sarah Dalling of the British Heart Foundation on Strategies for Legacies.
- [Digital Fundraising webinar (12 December 2014)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/digital-fundraising-webinar-12-december-2014/) - Digital Fundraising webinar (12 December 2014) On 12 December 2014, EHN organised a webinar on digital fundraising. Presentations and a short report from the meeting can be found here. Presentation British Heart Foundation: Amy Sharples and Joyce Dodd Presentation Dutch Heart Foundation: Michel Bleeker
- [Tobacco](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/)
- [Food and Nutrition](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/)
- [Cardiovascular health: an increasingly higher priority on the EU’s political agenda](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/cardiovascular-health-an-increasingly-higher-priority-on-the-eus-political-agenda/) - The Council of the European Union recently published the 18-month programme prepared by the future Spanish, Belgian and Hungarian Presidencies, setting out the main policy priorities of the next Presidency of the Council of the EU. For the first time in the history of the EU, cardiovascular health has been included as one of the top policy
- [OECD Health statistics 2023 available online](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/oecd-health-statistics-2023-available-online/) - The OECD Health Statistics 2023 database is now available online. Here is the link to the OECD database. When looking at country level data on the circulatory system, you will see that data for the most recent years are often missing!
- [EHN endorses the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance Manifesto to secure health as a top priority in the EU political agenda](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/ehn-endorses-the-eu4health-civil-society-alliance-manifesto-to-secure-health-as-a-top-priority-in-the-eu-political-agenda/) - In view of the 2024 European Parliamentary elections, the EU4Health Civil Society Alliance, of whom the European Heart Network (EHN) is a member and that gathers more than 30 civil society organizations advocating for health in Europe, published a manifesto calling for the prioritization of public health on the European Union’s political agenda. 10 priorities to secure
- [Fundraisers seminar - Puglia, Italy (21 May 2019)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/fundraisers-seminar-puglia-italy-21-may-2019/) - Fundraisers seminar - Puglia, Italy (21 May 2019) On 21 May 2019, EHN organised a training seminar for fundraisers amongst its members. Three main themes were discussed: donor acquisition, better use of database and legacies. List of documents from the meeting: Final programme participants list Report from the meeting Presentations Donor Acquisitions: The possibility of digitalising
- [Fundraisers workshop - Edinburgh, Scotland (24 -25 May 2016)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/fundraisers-workshop-edinburgh-scotland-24-25-may-2016/) - Fundraisers workshop - Edinburgh, Scotland (24 -25 May 2016) On 24 - 25 May 2016, EHN organised a fundraisers workshop in Edinburgh (Scotland) On this page you can find the following documents Agenda of the meeting and list of participants Report from the meeting Presentation by Ellen Janssens on the European context Presentation by Dan Gaita; Romanian Heart
- [New European Commission’s Report on health promotion and disease prevention indicators](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/new-european-commissions-report-on-health-promotion-and-disease-prevention-indicators/) - In 2014 the European Commission set up The Expert Group on Health Systems Performance Assessment with the aim of facilitating knowledge sharing and experiences in the field of Health Systems Performance Assessment (HSPA). The Expert Group recently published a new report on health promotion and disease prevention indicators, that primarily aims to investigate how health promotion and
- [Cardiovascular health will be a top priority of the next Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/cardiovascular-health-will-be-a-top-priority-of-the-next-spanish-presidency-of-the-council-of-the-european-union/) - From 1 July to 31 December 2023, Spain will take over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the fifth time. At the opening ceremony of the scientific dialogues, 'Emotion in Medicine: Brain and Heart. The perfect pairing', the Spanish Minister of Health, José Miñones, stated that cardiovascular health will be an integral
- [Fundraisers seminar - Lucerne, Switzerland (30 May 2018)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/fundraising-network/fundraisers-seminar-lucerne-switzerland-30-may-2018/) - Fundraisers seminar - Lucerne, Switzerland (30 May 2018) On 30 May, EHN organised a seminar for fundraisers in Heart Foundations. The focus was on innovation, digital marketing and donors. Please click here for the following documents Agenda of the meeting Report from the meeting List of Participants Presentation Lawrence Bate on innovation Presentation Ellen Janssens on crowd funding Presentation
- [WHO Europe declaration on childhood obesity](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/who-europe-declaration-on-childhood-obesity/) - On May 10, the Summit of the Spouses of 16 European leaders was held in Zagreb, Croatia to discuss approaches and initiatives to counter childhood obesity. On this occasion, they launched the first-ever Network of Spouses of European Leaders on the Prevention of Childhood Obesity in the WHO European Region and unanimously adopted the Zagreb Declaration
- [Public Health Subcommittee (SANT) held an exchange of views with Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/public-health-subcommittee-sant-held-an-exchange-of-views-with-stella-kyriakides-commissioner-for-health-and-food-safety/) - On April 20th, the Subcommittee of Public Health (SANT) held its first meeting, with the presence of the Commissioner of Health, Stella Kyriakides. Focus on Non-Communicable Diseaseses (NCDs), medicines shortages, and joint procurement One of the key highlights of the meeting was the announcement that the Subcommittee will request a legislative Own Initiative report on
- [Eurostat’s causes of death statistics: cardiovascular disease is the most frequent cause of death in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/eurostats-causes-of-death-statistics-cardiovascular-disease-is-the-most-frequent-cause-of-death-in-europe/) - The article published by Eurostat refers to the most recent statistics on the causes of death in the European Union (EU), which are available for the year 2020, and employs standardised death rates to better allow for comparison between European countries and between different age groups. The statistics highlight that cardiovascular disease (CVD) was the most frequent
- [Update on the European Parliament’s Public Health Subcommittee (SANT): the complete member list is now public](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/update-on-the-european-parliaments-public-health-subcommittee-sant-the-complete-member-list-is-now-public/) - The European Parliament (EP) Subcommittee on Public Health, also called SANT, was officially established in February 2023 and sits under the Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI), which will still retain the voting power. The complete list of 30 MEPs appointed to the Subcommittee was revealed on March 15 at a plenary session in Strasbourg.
- [European Parliament sets up subcommittee on Public Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/european-parliament-sets-up-subcommittee-on-public-health/) - On 18 January 2023 the European Parliament (EP) agreed on the establishment of a subcommittee on Public Health, which will sit under the existing Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI). The establishment of the committee stems from the necessity for a cohesive European Health Union and broader European health competencies, which were
- [WHO global report on hypertension](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/other-policy-areas/who-global-report-on-hypertension/) - WHO, together with 'Resolve to save lives' presented its latest report on hypertension on 20 September 2023. The research report, funded by the Bloomberg foundation, shows the high burden of hypertion in the world. It also show that At global level, 70% of deaths is due to NCDs; CVD is the biggest NCD; hypertension is the
- [Documents on CVD](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/) - Documents on CVD This section contains various documents on cardiovascular health and cardiovascular diseases. European Heart Health Charter - 2023 revision 2016 European Guidelines on CVD Prevention in Clinical Practice OECD Report on Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes Structural changes to promote cardiovascular health Council Conclusions on Chronic Diseases European Parliament Resolution on Action to Tackle
- [IPPC publishes new report on climate change: urgent action is needed to secure a liveable future](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/ippc-publishes-new-report-on-climate-change-urgent-action-is-needed-to-secure-a-liveable-future/) - On 20 March 2023, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which is the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change, released its latest report on climate change (full version will be available online soon). Scientists affirm the need for urgent action to tackle human-made climate change and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
- [EHN Seminars and Workshops](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/) - EHN Seminars and Workshops Please select the topic of EHN seminars and workshops that you would like to access. EHN Patients Seminars EHN Nutrition meeting 24 October 2022 Healthier Together Initiative Nutrition Advocacy Meeting 21 October 2020 Tobacco control webinar 4 June 2020 Nutrition and advocacy meeting 16 -17 October 2019 Nutrition and advocacy meeting
- [EHN Patients Seminars](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/patient-platform/) - EHN Patients Seminars EHN Patient Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (29-30 October 2019) EHN Patient Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (24 -25 October 2018) EHN Patients Seminar - Madrid, Spain (26-27 October 2017) EHN Patients Seminar - Frankfurt, Germany (27-28 April 2016) EHN Patients Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (21-22 October 2015) EHN Patients Seminar - Brussels, Belgium
- [EHN Research Platform](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/) - EHN Research Platform EHN Platform for Research-Funding Members, Brussels, 13-14 November 2018 Overview of research projects funded by EHN members Terms of Reference EHN Research Platform Meeting, 30-31 October 2019 EHN contribution to public consultation on Horizon Europe EHN Briefing Note on Brexit Concept Paper
- [Council Conclusions on Promoting Heart Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/council-conclusions-on-promoting-heart-health/) - Council Conclusions on Promoting Heart Health In 2004, the EU Council of Ministers adopted Council Conclusions on promoting heart health. The text can be downloaded here.
- [New European Environment Agency’s Assessment on environmental risk factors and cardiovascular diseases (CVD)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/new-european-environment-agencys-assessment-on-environmental-risk-factors-and-cardiovascular-diseases-cvd/) - According to the last assessment of the European Environment Agency (EEA), environmental risk factors are estimated to cause over 18% of cardiovascular disease (CVD) related deaths in Europe. For this reason, reducing pollution and adapting to climate change could significantly decrease the number of new CVD cases and resulting deaths. Cardiovascular disease prevention needs to target environmental
- [European Parliament Resolution on Action to Tackle Cardiovascular Disease](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/european-parliament-resolution-on-action-to-tackle-cardiovascular-disease/) - European Parliament Resolution on Action to Tackle Cardiovascular Disease On 12 July 2007, the European Parliament adopted a Motion for a Resolution on Action to tackle Cardiovascular Disease. In this resolution, the European Parliament among others: Calls on the Commission to propose a recommendation on cardiovascular disease and on early identification of high risk individuals
- [European Heart Health Charter](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/european-heart-health-charter/) - European Heart Health Charter Brussels, 29 September 2023: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally and costs the EU economy 282 billion euros per year. The European Heart Health Charter, launched today on World Heart Day, by the European Society of Cardiology and the European Heart Network, aims to improve cardiovascular health by
- [ENVI committee adopts resolution on air quality guidelines](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/envi-committee-adopts-resolution-on-air-quality-guidelines/) - On 27 June 2023, the European Parliament Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) voted in favour of a resolution to toughen the EU’s air quality guidelines and align them with the World Health Organization (WHO) global air quality guidelines. Javi López report on “Ambient Air Quality and cleaner air for Europe” With
- [Council Conclusions on Chronic Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/council-conclusions-on-chronic-diseases/) - Council Conclusions on Chronic Diseases In December 2010, the Council of Ministers adopted Council Conclusions on Chronic Diseases. The document can be downloaded here.
- [Structural changes to promote cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/structural-changes-to-promote-cardiovascular-health/) - Structural changes to promote cardiovascular health A paper published in the European Journal for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (EJCPR) reviewed the published evidence on the major modifiable CVD risk factors: food, physical inactivity, smoking, and alcohol. This position paper summarizes the evidence and recommends a number of structural strategies at international, national and regional levels
- [WHO Budapest Declaration on Environment and Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/who-budapest-declaration-on-environment-and-health/) - On 6 July, WHO members of the European Region undersigned the Budapest Declaration on the 7th Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health. The declaration prioritises urgent, wide-ranging action on health challenges related to climate change, environmental pollution, biodiversity loss and land degradation, along with, and in the context of, recovery from COVID-19. In the declaration, signatories agree
- [OECD Report on Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/oecd-report-on-cardiovascular-disease-and-diabetes/) - OECD Report on Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes Over the last few decades, mortality from cardiovascular disease has dropped faster than mortality from other causes. Despite this great success, prospects for making further inroads are threatened by rising levels of obesity and the lack of adherence to recommended treatments. The full OECD report can be downloaded here.
- [2016 European Guidelines on CVD Prevention in Clinical Practice](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/documents-on-cvd/2016-european-guidelines-on-cvd-prevention-in-clinical-practice/) - 2016 European Guidelines on CVD Prevention in Clinical Practice 2016 European Guidelines on CVD prevention in clinical practice: The Sixth Joint Task Force of the European Society of Cardiology and Other Societies on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Clinical Practice (constituted by representatives of 10 societies and by invited experts).Developed with the special contribution of the European
- [The Heart Foundation of the Hungarian Society of Cardiology is a new EHN member!](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/the-heart-foundation-of-the-hungarian-society-of-cardiology-is-a-new-ehn-member/) - We are delighted to announce that the EHN Network is expanding! On 24 May 2023, the EHN Board voted in favour of the re-admission of the Heart Foundation of the Hungarian Society of Cardiology based in Budapest, Hungary. The Foundation is led by its Secretary General, Zoltán Járai, and its President, Dávid Becker. Now at
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2023](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-annual-workshop-2023/) - The EHN Team would like to thank every member organisation, speaker and participant at the 2023 EHN Annual Workshop in Mainz last month! Such collaborative participation from our network was integral to making our workshop a success! A special thank you to the German Heart Foundation and to its Director, Martin Vestweber, for hosting us in such
- [World Heart Day 2023: highlights](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/world-heart-day-2023-highlights/) - World Heart Day is a reminder that everyone deserves a life free from avoidable cardiovascular diseases, and to live in environments that enable heart-healthy lifestyles. On this occasion, the European Heart Network (EHN) calls for European policymakers to address the leading burden of disease in Europe by developing a European strategy for cardiovascular health and
- [EHN Strategic Plan 2023-2030 launch: October 2023](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/ehn-strategic-plan-2023-2030-launch-october-2023/) - Next month, the European Heart Network (EHN) will launch its new seven-year Strategic Plan: “Europe’s CVD challenges: Leadership for Change”. The document represents a central tool to understand and contribute towards EHN’s strategic goals, mission and vision. EHN: a key actor for change in cardiovascular health at the European level and beyond The Strategic Plan
- [European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health Summit Awaits in Strasbourg](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/european-alliance-for-cardiovascular-health-summit-awaits-in-strasbourg/) - Scheduled from the 11th to the 14th of December, the EACH Summit will convene in the halls of the European Parliament, in Strasbourg. At its core, EACH Summit serves as a forum for Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and various political groups to publicly commit to advancing a Cardiovascular Health Plan in their election agendas
- [Update on the European Health Data Space](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/update-on-the-european-health-data-space/) - When it comes to European legislative dossiers, the hot topic in the field of health is the European Health Data Space (EHDS). After the European Commission's proposal in 2022, everyone saw the potential benefits of the dossier. However, since it involves sensitive personal data, it is crucial to clarify the relationship between the use of
- [Updates on the negotiations for an international convention on Artificial Intelligence (Al)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ai-and-digital-health/updates-on-the-negotiations-for-an-international-convention-on-artificial-intelligence-al/) - The Council of Europe (CoE) and the European Union (EU) are currently discussing the adoption of an international convention on Artificial Intelligence (Al). By the end of 2023, the European Union (EU) is expected to adopted harmonised rules on Al, that will bind all 27 EU member states. Exploiting the potential of Al systems while
- [Patient Issues](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/)
- [EHN News](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/ehn-news/)
- [BigData@Heart: new webinar and journal article](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/bigdataheart-new-webinar-and-journal-article/) - After six great years of research and collaboration, the BigData@Heart project is coming to an end in March of this year. On 11 November, an insightful BigData@Heart webinar took place. Dipak Kotecha, Professor of Cardiology at the University of Birmingham, and Folkert Asselbergs, Professor of Precision Medicine in Cardiovascular Disease at UCL Institute of Health Informatics and
- [Clinical trials in the EU: launch of a public consultation on the multi-stakeholder platform](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/clinical-trials-in-the-eu-launch-of-a-public-consultation-on-the-multi-stakeholder-platform/) - After a long planning period, the establishment of a multi-stakeholders' platform for improving clinical trials in the EU finally seems close to materialising, and is expected for the second quarter of 2023. The European Medicines Agency (EMA), the Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA), and the European Commission (EC) launched a public consultation for all relevant
- [EU-cofunded ArtOfHeart project set to design next-generation artificial hearts](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/eu-cofunded-artofheart-project-set-to-design-next-generation-artificial-hearts/) - ArtOfHeart is a Swedish project partially funded by the European Innovation Council (EIC) and coordinated by the medical technological company Scandinavian Real Heart AB. The project is investing €38 million to conduct clinical and pre-clinical trials on an artificial heart designed by the Scandinavian company, with the ambitious aim of producing the first Total Artificial Heart
- [New EU-funded euCanSHare course on cardiovascular cohorts identification and data harmonization](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/new-eu-funded-eucanshare-course-on-cardiovascular-cohorts-identification-and-data-harmonization/) - The euCanSHare project is funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by an international consortium of 17 partners from Europe and Canada with high expertise in biomedical data management and ethics, as well as cardiovascular research and personalised medicine. The project started in 2018 and is now in its final stage; its central mission of the
- [BEST-COST launches website](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/best-cost-launches-website/) - BEST-COST is a 4-year EU-funded research project undertaken by a consortium of 17 partners and led by Sciensano, the Belgian Institute for Health. The project aims to improve methodologies to assess the socioeconomic cost of environmental stressors, particularly noise and air pollution. By doing so, BEST-COST will improve policies and practices to reduce the disease burden.
- [The UK re-joins EU’s Horizon scheme](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/the-uk-re-joins-eus-horizon-scheme/) - On 7 September 2023, the United Kingdom and the European Commission reached a political agreement on the UK’s re-admission in the Horizon scheme, the world’s largest civil research and innovation programme. The EU and the UK at the forefront of global science and research After formally leaving the EU’s science funding system in 2020, the
- [EU-funded project to improve heart health through music therapy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/research/eu-funded-project-to-improve-heart-health-through-music-therapy/) - Music therapy methods are used in cardiovascular care as a non-pharmacological way to regulate heart rate and reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients. The European Research Council (ERC) is investing 150,000 euro in the HEART.FM project, which is hosted by the Kings College of London and aims at improving the therapeutic scope of music therapy in cardiovascular
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2016](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2016-2/) - 2016 EHN Annual Workshop - Edinburgh, Scotland Final Programme (downloadable link) Speakers' Abstracts and Biographies (downloadable link) Group Photograph - Annual Workshop 2016 (downloadable link) Group Photograph - Annual Workshop 2016 June 09th 2016 Final Programme 2016 Workshop Presentations Ms Kristina Sparreljung : How to Engage People and Connect Them with Research Ms Amarjit Kaur
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2017](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2017-2/) - 2017 EHN Annual workshop - Noordwijk, The Netherlands Final programme (downloadable link) Speakers' Abstracts and Biographies (downloadable link) 2017 Workshop presentations Simon Gillespie: Annual Workshop Opening Remarks Vera Regitz-Zagrosek: Are women adequately diagnosed and treated for cardiovascular diseases? Gunnar Gislason: Is there still a need for funding research with focus on special issues related to
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2015](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/ehn-annual-workshop-2015/) - Annual Workshop 2015 Evaluation December 08th 2015 Please find here a summary of the 26 evaluation forms received after the EHN Annual Workshop 2015. Dr Gauden Galea : Tackling NCDs - locally, nationally, regionally and globally June 04th 2015 Please click here for presentation. Dr Roberto Volpe : Fifteen years of first aid courses and cardiovascular prevention
- [EHN-funded research projects](https://ehnheart.org/activities/research/ehn-funded-research-projects/) - EHN-funded research projects A vending machine for a friend The aim of the pilot project has been to regulate and improve the nutritional quality of food and beverages served in vending machines, cafeterias and school canteens. Learn more about this project Scorecard Launched in 2016 and completed in April 2019, the HeartMan project's main goal
- [Film-makers](https://ehnheart.org/activities/research/ehn-funded-research-projects/film-makers/) - Doctors, Teachers, Students, Film-Makers, and Journalists Allied in Cardiovascular Prevention The Italian Society for Cardiovascular Prevention and the Slovenian Heart Foundation conducted a study aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle to protect public health, especially in the area of cardiovascular diseases. This study specifically focused on adolescents, who are notoriously more vulnerable and more exposed
- [EHN General Assembly 2020](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2020-2/) - EHN General Assembly 2020 - Virtual Please click on the relevant links below to read the supporting documentation in respect of the 2020 EHN General Assembly, which was held via virtual meeting on 4 June 2020. Item 1: Draft Minutes 4 June 2020 _virtual General Assembly Agenda 2020 Item 1: Minutes, Puglia, 2019 Item 2:
- [Scorecard](https://ehnheart.org/activities/research/ehn-funded-research-projects/scorecard/) - CVD Scorecard EHN partnered with the World Heart Federation (WHF) in 2022 on the CVD Scorecard project for the European region. The CVD Scorecard is an advocacy tool based on the WHF Roadmap that supports stakeholders in assessing the strengths and gaps in national CVD programmes and policies to promote future targeted policy action. EHN
- [A vending machine for a friend](https://ehnheart.org/activities/research/ehn-funded-research-projects/ehn-funded-research-projects/) - A vending machine a friend The project, “A vending machine for a friend", is aimed at encouraging healthy choices at school and reducing overweight and obesity among young people, as well as contrasting unregulated marketing of unhealthy products targeted to children. On May 18 2023, the results of the pilot project were published in the Journal of
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2018](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2018-2/) - 2018 EHN Annual Workshop - Lucerne, Switzerland Final programme Final Conference Pack Photos from the Annual Workshop 2018 Please click here to see the photos. Password: rigi Annual Workshop 2018 Presentations
- [EHN General Assembly 2016](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2016-2/) - EHN Annual General Assembly - Edinburgh, UK Supporting documents Please click on the relevant links below to read the supporting documentation in respect of the 2016 EHN Annual General Assembly, which was held in Edinburgh, UK on 26 May 2016. General Assembly Agenda 2016 List of Supporting Documents Item 1: Approval of Minutes of the 2015
- [EHN General Assembly 2017](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2017-2/) - EHN General Assembly 2017 - Noordwijk, the Netherlands Please click on the relevant links below to read the supporting documentation in respect of the 2017 EHN General Assembly, which was held in Noordwijk, the Netherlands, on 1 June 2017. General Assembly Agenda 2017 List of Supporting Documents Item 1: Approval of Minutes of the 2016 EHN
- [Annual Meetings](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/) - EHN Annual General Assembly The General Assembly occurs on an annual basis and comprises all the members of the EHN, each with the right to 1 vote. The General Assembly has the competence to: set broad policy guidelines; elect the Board and appoint its President; approve new members; agree budgets and approve accounts and auditors'
- [WHO-OECD report on lack of physical activity in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/who-oecd-report-on-lack-of-physical-activity-in-europe/) - On 17 February, WHO and the OECD will launch their joint report on the burden of insufficient physical activity in Europe. The joint report 'Step up! Tackling the burden of NCDs in Europe' focuses on the need to increase physical activity (PA) to reduce the burden of NCDs in Europe. The report will also provide information on: the
- [Air Pollution](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/air-pollution/)
- [New report on the benefits of physical activity in primary healthcare](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/physical-activity/new-report-on-the-benefits-of-physical-activity-in-primary-healthcare/) - The World Research Cancer Fund International recently published a report on the need for and benefits of implementing robust policies for the promotion of physical activity (PA) in the primary healthcare sector (PHS). The promotion of physical activity in primary healthcare is considered a significant, cost-effective option to increase the overall level of regular physical activity within
- [European Commission adopts proposal to extend the transition period of the Medical Devices Regulation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/european-commission-adopts-proposal-to-extend-the-transition-period-of-the-medical-devices-regulation/) - On 6 January 2023, the European Commission adopted a proposal to extend the transition period for companies required to adopt new regulations for medical devices, as established by the 2017 Medical Devices Regulation (MDR). This proposal stems from the urgent need to prevent a looming medical device shortage crisis, which may occur if the manufacturers failed to
- [EMA endorses measures to reduce JAK inhibitors side effects](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/ema-endorses-measures-to-reduce-jak-inhibitors-side-effects/) - EMA’s human medicines committee (CHMP) endorsed the measures recommended by the Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) to minimise the risk of serious side effects from Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. JAK inhibitors are oral medicines, such as Xeljanz, Cibinqo, Olumiant, Rinvoq and Jyseleca, that are used to treat several chronic inflammatory disorders and are known to cause side effects including cardiovascular conditions,
- [EU Pharmaceutical Legislation Reform](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/eu-pharmaceutical-legislation-reform/) - The discussion of the legislative proposal regarding the evaluation and revision of the EU general pharmaceutical legislation is imminent. The European Commission’s Directorate General of Health and Food Safety will discuss the proposal within the broader framework of the Pharmaceutical Strategy for Europe, adopted by the Commission in November 2020 and considered one of the main
- [The European Medicines Agency publishes the Human Medicines Highlights 2022](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/the-european-medicines-agency-publishes-the-human-medicines-highlights-2022/) - The European Medicines Agency's (EMA) Human Medicines Highlights 2022 provides an overview of the key recommendations from 2022 and figures on the authorisation of medicines and a selection of new treatments. In 2022, the EMA approved 89 new treatments– no new treatments for cardiovascular disease are found on that list. Two existing medicines for cardiovascular disease were
- [Delays on the implementation of the Medical Devices Regulation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/delays-on-the-implementation-of-the-medical-devices-regulation/) - The pandemic, shortages of raw materials, and low notified body capacity have slowed down the transition to the new rules, creating a backlog of around 23,000 certificates to be processed by May 2024. In the European Parliament, MEPs have recently supported urgent amendments to delay the implementation of the Medical Devices Regulation. The new certification
- [Further delay in the revision of the EU general pharmaceutical legislation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/further-delay-in-the-revision-of-the-eu-general-pharmaceutical-legislation/) - The revision of the EU pharma legislation intends to set up a new framework for the regulation of medicines at the European level and is the most extensive reform on the topic in close to two decades. The revision was expected to be published on 29 March 2023 but it has been further postponed. The
- [New WHO Report on the impact of COVID-19 on access to medicines for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/new-who-report-on-the-impact-of-covid-19-on-access-to-medicines-for-noncommunicable-diseases-ncds/) - A new World Health Organization (WHO) report, "Access to NCD Medicines: Emergent Issues During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Key Structural Factors," investigates how the COVID-19 pandemic affected access to noncommunicable diseases (NCD) medicines. The report reviews regional trends worldwide and addresses critical points along the entire supply chain pathway: manufacturing, procurement, importation and delivery. The
- [European Commission publishes the draft reform of the EU pharmaceutical legislation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/european-commission-publishes-the-draft-reform-of-the-eu-pharmaceutical-legislation/) - On 26 April, the European Commission published the long-awaited draft reform of the EU Pharmaceutical Legislation. At first glance, the Commission held firm against industry in the latest overhaul and now, the proposal is in the hands of the European Parliament and the Council. Within the European Parliament, two political groups - the European People’s Party
- [WHO launches Framework for Meaningful Engagement of People Living with NCDs and Mental Health and Neurological Conditions](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/who-launches-framework-for-meaningful-engagement-of-people-living-with-ncds-and-mental-health-and-neurological-conditions/) - On 11 May, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a new framework for the meaningful engagement of people living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health and neurological conditions. The framework aims to improve health outcomes by implementing inclusive and equitable policies, programmes and services involving people living with these health conditions at every step of the process.
- [Revision of the EU Pharmaceutical Legislation - key highlights](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/revision-of-the-eu-pharmaceutical-legislation-key-highlights/) - The European Union has recently implemented new pharmaceutical legislation with the aim of improving access to and the quality of treatment for patients in the EU. Authorization procedures for new medications One of the key provisions of this legislation focuses on speeding up the authorization procedures for new medications. Patients with heart diseases often face a long
- [MEP Heart Group’s webinar on the shortage of medical devices for cardiovascular patients in the European Union](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/mep-heart-groups-webinar-on-the-shortage-of-medical-devices-for-cardiovascular-patients-in-the-european-union/) - On 28 June 2023, the MEP Heart Group, hosted a webinar on the consequences of and possible solutions for the shortage of medical devices for cardiovascular patients in the European Union (EU). This webinar was organised in collaboration with the European Heart Network (EHN) and hosted by MEP Heart Group Co-Chairs, MEP Brando Benifei (S&D,
- [Medicines Shortages discussed at the European Parliament](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/patient-issues/medicines-shortages-discussed-at-the-european-parliament/) - On July 13th, the Subcommittee on Public Health of the European Parliament (SANT) discussed the pressing issue of medicines shortages across 32 countries in the European region. The Subcommittee highlighted the long-standing problem of shortages, which has undermined citizen trust and affected the timely and adequate supply of medicines. Moreover, the subcommittee presented the results
- [Alcohol consumption and CVD prevention – new WHO report](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/alcohol-consumption-and-cvd-prevention-new-who-report/) - The World Health Organization recently published an article in the Lancet on the health-related dangers associated with alcohol consumption. The report argues that even low levels of alcohol consumption are harmful to our health, as a threshold for safe alcohol consumption has never been scientifically established. Alcohol is classified as a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance, and
- [Trans Fatty Acids: WHO presents global update](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/trans-fatty-acids-who-presents-global-update/) - WHO presented its progress report on implementation of Trans Fatty Acids legislation and best practices on 26 January 2023. In the EU, as of 1 April 2021, foods containing more than 2g/100g of industrially produced trans fatty acids are no longer allowed. Other European countries where similar TFA legislation applies are Iceland, Norway, Turkey and the
- [Ireland plans health warnings on alcohol](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/ireland-plans-health-warnings-on-alcohol/) - The Irish public health Act adopted in 2018 can now enter into force. It requires alcohol product labels to warn that: “Drinking alcohol causes liver disease”; show a symbol informing the public of the danger of alcohol consumption when pregnant; and say, “There is a direct link between alcohol and fatal cancers”. They must also
- [New report on alcohol consumption, blood pressure and hypertension](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-report-on-alcohol-consumption-blood-pressure-and-hypertension/) - An international consortium composed of medical and public health researchers from Canada, Australia, the United States, and Sweden (including the Swedish Heart-Lung Association), has recently published a new report on the correlation between alcohol consumption, blood pressure and hypertension. It recognizes the existence of a strong positive relationship between alcohol consumption and hypertension. Furthermore, it states that
- [WHO global report on salt intake](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/who-global-report-on-salt-intake/) - According to a WHO report launched on 9 March 2023, world wide salt reduction targets are not achieving the 30% reduction target projected for 2025. Implementing salt reduction targets is one of the most cost-effective measures to reduce high blood pressure (and thus CVD), yet only nine countries (Brazil, Chile, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Saudi
- [WHO Europe revises its nutrient profile model](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/who-europe-revises-its-nutrient-profile-model/) - The WHO Regional Office for Europe revised its nutrient profile model for marketing of unhealthy foods to children. Nutrient profiling is defined by the WHO as “the science of classifying or ranking foods according to their nutritional composition for reasons related to preventing disease and promoting health”. In 2015, WHO Regional office for Europe developed a first Nutrient
- [CO-CREATE webinar series for the launch of the Moving and Nourishing Policy Indexes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/co-create-webinar-series-for-the-launch-of-the-moving-and-nourishing-policy-indexes/) - CO-CREATE is a project led by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, funded by the European Union’s 2020 programme, and bringing together 14 international research and advocacy organizations with the aim of promoting policies for obesity prevention, and sustainable and healthy dietary behaviours and lifestyles. The World Obesity Federation (CO-CREATE partner) is organizing a two-series webinar
- [New WHO’s Guidelines for the Use of non-sugar sweeteners](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/new-whos-guidelines-for-the-use-of-non-sugar-sweeteners/) - On May 15, The World Health Organization (WHO) published a new guideline which provides evidence-informed recommendations on the use of non-sugar sweeteners (NSS). The A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies indicate that long-term use of non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), type 2 diabetes and mortality. The main objective of the
- [Resilient and sustainable food systems in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/resilient-and-sustainable-food-systems-in-the-eu/) - On 5 July 2003, the European Commission adopted a communication on ‘Ensuring resilient and sustainable use of EU's natural resources’. The Communication includes a section on supporting resilient and sustainable food systems in the EU. A more sustainable agricultural production that it less dependent on fertilisers and chemicals/pesticides will make the agriculture sector less dependent on
- [Diet, cardiovascular disease, and mortality](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/diet-cardiovascular-disease-and-mortality/) - The PURE study (Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology) has served as a basis for research work to develop a healthy diet score that is associated with health outcomes and is globally applicable. The PURE diet includes 2-3 servings of fruit per day, 2-3 servings of vegetables per day, 3-4 servings of legumes per week, 7 servings
- [New WHO’s guidelines on policies to protect children from the harmful impact of food marketing](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-2/news-item-2/) - On 3 July 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched its new guidelines on “Policies to protect children from the harmful impact of food marketing”, which are aimed at providing recommendations to restrict food marketing to which children and adolescents are exposed. The impact of unhealthy food marketing on health The World Health Organization (WHO) conceives the
- [European Citizen’s Initiative to achieve a tobacco-free generation and tobacco-free environment by 2030](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/european-citizens-initiative-to-achieve-a-tobacco-free-generation-and-tobacco-free-environment-by-2030/) - The European Citizens' Initiative "Tobacco Free Environment and the First European Tobacco-Free Generation by 2030, a project organized by the European Network for Smoking and Tobacco Prevention (ENSP) and nofumadores.org, officially launched on 16 January 2023. The goals of this initiative are: The promotion of the first Tobacco-free European generation, meaning ending the sale of tobacco and
- [Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation publishes a new report on the harm behind the tobacco industry’s new products](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/swedish-heart-lung-foundation-publishes-a-new-report-on-the-harm-behind-the-tobacco-industrys-new-products/) - Various experts from the Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation, the University of Gothenburg, the Umeå Universit, the Karolinska Institute, and the Swedish NGO A Non Smoking Generation, have contributed to a new publication about the tobacco industry’s novel products, and how they are affecting Swedish citizens, especially the younger generations. From tobacco control policies to the widespread use of
- [31 May 2023: World No-Tobacco Day](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/31-may-2023-world-no-tobacco-day/) - On 31 May 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) and many other public health organizations come came together to celebrate World No Tobacco Day and inform people about the danger of tobacco consumption, drawing attention to the tobacco epidemic that causes millions of preventable deaths and diseases worldwide. New WHO report – Grow Food, No Tobacco This
- [E-cigarette users vs normal cigarette users : ASH 2023 study](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/e-cigarette-users-vs-normal-cigarette-users-ash-2023-study/) - Four in 10 smokers believe that vaping is as bad as or even worse than smoking. This is the outcome of an ASH study on the use of e-cigarettes among adults in the UK. The study (fact sheets) provides information on the number of people using e-cigarettes but also why people smoke them. It makes a comparative
- [New WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic: the Netherlands is at the forefront of tobacco control measures](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/new-who-report-on-the-global-tobacco-epidemic-the-netherlands-is-at-the-forefront-of-tobacco-control-measures/) - On 31 July 2023, the World Health Organisation (WHO) published the ninth report on the global tobacco epidemic; this tracks the progress made by countries in tobacco control since 2008 and marks 15 years since the introduction of the MPOWER technical package, designed to help countries implement the demand-reduction measures of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco
- [Disposable e-cigarettes banned in France](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/member-subpage/category-1/news-item-1/) - By the end of 2023, the sale and use of disposible e-cigarettes will be forbidden in France. This is part of a new anti-smoking plan being drawn up by the French government. The cheap, colourful and often flavored products are mainly marketed to children and teenagers and the measure is presented to prevent the uptake
- [A new European Heart Health Charter for a new Europe](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/a-new-european-heart-health-charter-for-a-new-europe/) - Brussels, 29 September 2023: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally and costs the EU economy 282 billion euros per year. The European Heart Health Charter, launched today on World Heart Day, by the European Society of Cardiology and the European Heart Network, aims to improve cardiovascular health by preventing where possible and
- [External cooperation](https://ehnheart.org/network/external-cooperation/) - External cooperation EHN contributes actively towards the WHO-Europe activities as a Non-State Actor and it plays an active advocacy role towards the EU institutions (European Commission, European Parliament, Council of Ministers, EMA, ECDC). World Heart Organization (WHO) - Regional office for Europe In 2018, the WHO Regional Committee for Europe decided to adopt a set
- [British Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/british-heart-foundation/) - British Heart Foundation At the BHF, our vision is a world free from the fear of heart and circulatory diseases. As the largest independent funder of research into heart and circulatory diseases in the UK, we raise money for innovative, lifesaving research to help protect and save hearts, so we can give people more time
- [Slovenian Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/slovenian-heart-foundation/) - Slovenian Heart Foundation The Slovenian Heart Foundation (SHF) is a non-governmental humanitarian organization founded in 1991, and it consists of 9 branches and two affiliated societies. SHF is a member of the World Heart Federation, the European Heart Network, FH Europe and ECHDO - The European Congenital Heart Disease Organisation. The SHF is an association that
- [Heart Foundation of the Hungarian Society of Cardiology](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/hellenic-heart-foundation-2/) - Heart Foundation of the Hungarian Society of Cardiology The Heart Foundation of the Hungarian Society of Cardiology aims to closely cooperate with the Hungarian Society of Cardiology in order to fulfill the following goals: to enhance the professional, scientific, research-related and further educational activities of the members of the Hungarian Society of Cardiology to develop
- [Icelandic Heart Association](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/icelandic-heart-association/) - Icelandic Heart Association The Icelandic Heart Association was founded in 1964. The IHA Research Institute began in 1967 a very broad epidemiological research project, the Reykjavik Study, where the focus was on identifying the main risk factors in cardiovascular diseases in Iceland. This research has been ongoing for over 40 years now and has involved
- [News](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/)
- [TTIP, international trade and cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/trade-and-health-dossier/ttip-international-trade-and-cardiovascular-health/) - TTIP, international trade and cardiovascular health European Heart Network paper on international trade and cardiovascular health. Click here to read the paper.
- [TTIP, ISDS and the Implications for Irish Public Health Policy](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/trade-and-health-dossier/ttip-isds-and-the-implications-for-irish-public-health-policy/) - TTIP, ISDS and the Implications for Irish Public Health Policy The Irish Cancer Society has prepared a report on TTIP, which concludes that the economic benefits from TTIP are too small or speculative to justify the associated social risks. It also recommends negotiating TTIP without any form of ISDS. Here is the link to the summary
- [Why Industry Does not Reformulate](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-reformulation-dossier/why-industry-does-not-reformulate/) - Why Industry Does not Reformulate Food industry reluctance to reformulation is great. Here are some arguments and counter-arguments to food reformulation Arguments from industry, and EHN's counter-arguments to food reformulation document
- [Food Reformulation Dossier](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-reformulation-dossier/) - Food Reformulation Dossier Commission survey on nutrient profiles EHN note on trans fatty acids EHN Workshop on Food Reformulation EU Framework for National Initiatives on Selected Nutrients Why Industry Does not Reformulate
- [EU Framework for National Initiatives on Selected Nutrients](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-reformulation-dossier/eu-framework-for-national-initiatives-on-selected-nutrients/) - EU Framework for National Initiatives on Selected Nutrients On 3 February 2011 the EU High Level Group (HLG) agreed on the EU Framework for National Initiatives on Selected Nutrients. The high level group on nutrition and physical activity is a group of European government representatives dealing with this issue, led by the European Commission. The EU
- [EHN Workshop on Food Reformulation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-reformulation-dossier/ehn-workshop-on-food-reformulation/) - EHN Workshop on Food Reformulation On 7 December 2015, EHN organised a workshop for its members on Food Reformulation. The following documents can be found here Agenda of the meeting Report from the meeting Presentations Letteke Boot, Dutch ministry of health (on the Dutch Council presidency initiative on Food Product Improvement) Jennifer Mitchell, British Heart
- [EHN note on trans fatty acids](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-reformulation-dossier/ehn-note-on-trans-fatty-acids/) - EHN note on trans fatty acids This note contains an overview of initiatives taken by different organisations and institutions in the field of trans fatty acids (TFAs) since the publication of EHN’s position paper in April 2015. The note can be downloaded from this link.
- [Commission survey on nutrient profiles](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-reformulation-dossier/commission-survey-on-nutrient-profiles/) - Commission survey on nutrient profiles Note for EHN members on the European Commission survey on nutrient profilesClick here for the note
- [Marketing to Children dossier](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/) - Marketing to Children Dossier Who's Feeding the Kids Online Time to seize the red bull by the horns EHN background note on marketing HFSS to children WHO publications Audiovisual Media Services Directive National legislation The Marketing of Unhealthy Food to Children The EU pledge
- [The EU pledge](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/the-eu-pledge/) - The EU pledge More information on the Pledge, a voluntary industry initiative, can be found via this link.
- [The Marketing of Unhealthy Food to Children](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/the-marketing-of-unhealth-food-to-children/) - The Marketing of Unhealthy Food to Children Please click here to read EHN report on marketing of unhealthy foods to children.
- [National legislation](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/national-legislation/) - National legislation In this section you can find links to national legislation restricting advertising of HFSS to children Ireland - BAI Children’s Commercial Communications Code UK: Ofcom report and consultation The Netherlands: The Dutch Advertising code
- [Audiovisual Media Services Directive](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/audiovisual-media-services-directive/) - Audiovisual Media Services Directive The EU Audiovisual Media Services Directive can be found via this link More information on the Audiovisdual Media Services Directive and on the EU policy in this field can be found via this link.
- [WHO publications](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/who-publications/) - WHO publications WHO has several publication on marketing to children Three publications are of particular interest to EHN members Marketing of foods high in HFSS (2012 - 2013 update) Recommendations on marketing of foods to Children A framework for implementing the set of recommendations on the marketing of foods and non-alcoholic beverages to children
- [EHN background note on marketing HFSS to children](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/ehn-background-note-on-marketing-hfss-to-children/) - EHN background note on marketing HFSS to children EHN Background note on Measures (legislative or others) to help reducing Children’s exposure to marketing of unhealthy foods to children can be found via this link.
- [Time to seize the red bull by the horns](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/time-to-seize-the-red-bull-by-the-horns/) - Time to seize the red bull by the horns Time to Seize the (Red) Bull by the Horns: The European Union’s Failure to Protect Children from Alcohol and Unhealthy Food Marketing Please find here the link to the article.
- [Who's Feeding the Kids Online](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/marketing-to-children-dossier/whos-feeding-the-kids-online/) - Who's Feeding the Kids Online On 15 June 2016, the Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) launched the report “Who’s Feeding the Kids Online”. The report was launched during a meeting on ‘Who’s Feeding the Kids Online? Digital Food Marketing and Children in Ireland’.The presentations from the meeting can be downloaded via this link. Here is a summary report of
- [Food Taxation Dossier](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/) - Food Taxation Dossier WHO report on price policies to promote healthier diets Food Taxes and their impact on competitiveness of the agri-food sector Danish Tax on Saturated Fat Role of fiscal measures in health promotion Sustain UK call for tax on sugary drinks Food Tax study by New Zealand Researchers What is the Role of
- [Fat Taxes in the UK: a briefing note](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/fat-taxes-in-the-uk-a-briefing-note/) - Fat Taxes in the UK: a briefing note Briefing note prepared by Mike Rayner and Oliver Mytton, British Heart Foundation Health Promotion Research Group, Department of Public Health, University of Oxford. Please click here for the briefing note.
- [The Right to Food](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/the-right-to-food/) - The Right to Food In this report, submitted to the Human Rights Council of the United Nations, the Special Rapporteur on the right to food addresses the links between health and malnutrition. In the report, the author shows why undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency and overnutrition are different dimensions of malnutrition that must be addressed together through
- [Tax on Salt](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/tax-on-salt/) - Tax on Salt Tax on salt and voluntary industry reductions in salt content could reduce deaths from cardiovascular disease by 3 per cent in developing countries, according to preliminary data from new Harvard report presented at the World Congress of Cardiology organized by the World Heart Federation (April 2012). Please click here for the full article.
- [Taxing Unhealthy Food and Drinks to Improve Health](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/taxing-unhealthy-food-and-drinks-to-improve-health/) - Taxing Unhealthy Food and Drinks to Improve Health Article written by Mike Rayner and Oliver Mytton, British Heart Foundation Health Promotion Research Group, Department of Public Health, University of Oxford. Published in the BMJ of 15 May 2012. Please click here for the full text of the article. Here is the Conclusion from the article: Health related
- [Health Related Beverage and Food Taxes](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/health-related-beverage-and-food-taxes/) - Health Related Beverage and Food Taxes Report prepared by the Irish Heart Foundation as a Pre-Budget Submission 2013. Please click here for the full report. Recommendations made by the Irish Heart Foundation for Budget 2013 are:Use tax policy to promote public health and gain revenue for the State. Introduce a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). The tax
- [Food Tax study by New Zealand Researchers](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/food-tax-study-by-new-zealand-researchers/) - Food Tax study by New Zealand Researchers 32 studies on food taxation published in OECD countries have been examined by a New Zealand research team. The systematic review of simulation studies investigates the estimated association between food pricing strategies and changes in food purchases or intakes (consumption) (objective 1); health and disease outcomes (objective 2),
- [What is the Role of Health Related Food Duties?](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/what-is-the-role-of-health-related-food-duties/) - What is the Role of Health Related Food Duties? Report prepared by the National Heart Forum on food taxation. Please click here for the full report. Conclusions and recommendations from the report are mentioned below Conclusions from the report Food taxes are currently at the centre of a vigorous policy debate in many countries around the world
- [Sustain UK call for tax on sugary drinks](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/sustain-uk-call-for-tax-on-sugary-drinks/) - Sustain UK call for tax on sugary drinks In a report on "A Children's Future Fund", Sustain UK outlines how this fund, funded by a sugary drinks duty, could pay for programmes to improve children’s health and protect the environment they grow up in. The report points to the high levels of diet-related illness which
- [Role of fiscal measures in health promotion](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/role-of-fiscal-measures-in-health-promotion/) - Role of fiscal measures in health promotion In July 2013, the OECD published the a paper on fiscual measures (taxation measures) and their impact on consumption of certain types of consumer products. In recent years, an increased attention has been placed by many governments on the use of fiscal measures, particularly taxes on health-related commodities,
- [Danish Tax on Saturated Fat](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/danish-tax-on-saturated-fat/) - Danish Tax on Saturated Fat Denmark introduced a tax on saturated fat in food products with effect from October 2011. The objective of this paper is to make an effect assessment of this tax for butter, butter-blends, margarine and oils. The econometric analysis suggest that that the level of consumption of fats dropped by 10
- [Food Taxes and their impact on competitiveness of the agri-food sector](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/food-taxes-and-their-impact-on-competitiveness-of-the-agri-food-sector/) - Food Taxes and their impact on competitiveness of the agri-food sector Europe’s increasing obesity prevalence is of growing concern to EU policy makers given its detrimental health effects and associated burden on public health systems. In recent years there has been interest, both within the EU and globally, in the use of taxes on high
- [WHO report on price policies to promote healtHier diets](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/who-report-on-price-policies-to-promote-healhtier-diets/) - WHO report on price policies to promote healthier diets On March 2015, WHO presented a report on price policies to promote healthier diets. In the foreword to this report, Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, states that "One issue that Member States have repeatedly highlighted as a major concern is the affordability of healthy
- [Taxation of Unhealthy foods: Eatwell Project](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/food-taxatation/taxation-of-unhealthy-foods-eatwell-project/) - Taxation of Unhealthy foods: Eatwell Project Preliminary conclusions from the Eatwell project (EU funded project on Interventions to Promote Healthy Eating Habits) are that governments should put taxes on unhealthy foods and earmark the money to promote healthier choices. On 8 November 2012 EATWELL presented its final results at the 5th European Public Health Conference
- [Lobby documents](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents-2/lobby-documents/) - Lobby documents Decision making process in the EU Please click here to see how the decision making process at EU level works. Excise duties on manufactured tobacco products Advocacy toolkit on excise duties on manufactured tobacco products.
- [Board Members Only](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-3/)
- [EHN Patients Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (21-22 October 2015)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/patient-platform/ehn-patients-seminar-brussels-belgium-21-22-october-2015/) - EHN Patients Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (21-22 October 2015) The latest Patients' Seminar meeting took place in Brussels on the 21st and 22nd of October 2015. Many patients' associations within EHN membership participated in the event, with a handful of external speakers. The meeting focused on access to medicines, new prevention techniques, collaboration with chronic
- [Concept Paper](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/concept-paper/) - Concept Paper The Concept Paper outlines the rationale and objectives of the platform in further detail.
- [EHN Briefing Note on Brexit](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/ehn-briefing-note-on-brexit/) - EHN Briefing Note on Brexit The United Kingdom (UK) is due to leave our European Union (EU) this year. Friday 31st of January will be the UK’s last day as a Member State of the EU. Negotiations for a trade deal between the EU and the UK and their future relationship will immediately kick-off. At
- [EHN contribution to public consultation on Horizon Europe](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/ehn-contribution-to-public-consultation-on-horizon-europe/) - EHN contribution to public consultation on Horizon Europe The European Heart Network has responded to the European Commission's public consultation to prepare a ‘Strategic Plan’ for Horizon Europe, which will then guide the work programmes and calls for proposals for Horizon Europe’s first four years (2021-2024). EHN's input builds on and promotes the European Research Area
- [EHN Research Platform Meeting, 30-31 October 2019](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/ehn-research-platform-meeting-30-31-october-2019/) - EHN Research Platform Meeting, 30-31 October 2019 The second meeting of the Research Platform took place in Brussels on 30-31 October 2019. The meeting opened with a series of joint discussions with members of the EHN patient organisations. Topics on the agenda included updates on EU's research programme, big data, digital tools for cardiovascular patients,
- [Terms of Reference](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/terms-of-reference/) - Terms of Reference Please click here.
- [Overview of research projects funded by EHN members](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/overview-of-research-projects-funded-by-ehn-members/) - Overview of research projects funded by EHN members Please click here.
- [EHN Platform for Research-Funding Members, Brussels, 13-14 November 2018](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/research-platform/ehn-platform-for-research-funding-members-brussels-13-14-november-2018/) - EHN Platform for Research-Funding Members, Brussels, 13-14 November 2018 The inaugural meeting of the European Heart Network Platform for Research-Funding Members took place on 13-14 November 2018 in Brussels. Programme Meeting Summary Presentations: Where are we today as a networkSusanne Løgstrup, European Heart Network Development of a national CVD research agenda involving the publicRebecca Abma-Schouten, Team
- [2010](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2010-2/) - 2010 Board Meetings 17 November 2010 Minutes Agenda 8 September 2010 Minutes Agenda 19 May 2010 Minutes Agenda 25 March 2010 Minutes Agenda
- [2011](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2011-2/) - 2011 Board Meetings 8 December 2011 Minutes Agenda 15 September 2011 Minutes Agenda 18 May 2011 Minutes Agenda 5 April 2011 Minutes Agenda
- [2012](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2012-2/) - 2012 Board Meetings 28 November 2012 Minutes Agenda 18 September 2012 Minutes Agenda 23 May 2012 Minutes Agenda 29 March 2012 Minutes Agenda
- [2013](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2013-2/) - 2013 Board Meetings 28 November 2013 Agenda 26 September 2013 Minutes Agenda 11 June 2013 Minutes Agenda 21 March 2013 Minutes Agenda
- [2014](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2014-2/) - 2014 Board Meetings 27 November 2014 Minutes Agenda 1 October 2014 Minutes Agenda 21 May 2014 Minutes Agenda 20 March 2014 Minutes Agenda
- [2015](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2015-2/) - 2015 Board Meetings 26 November 2015 Minutes Agenda 17 September 2015 Minutes Agenda 20 May 2015 Minutes Agenda 24 March 2015 Minutes Agenda
- [2016](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2016-2/) - 2016 Board Meetings 22 November 2016 Minutes Agenda 20 September 2016 Minutes Agenda 25 May 2016 Minutes Agenda 30 March 2016 Minutes Agenda
- [2017](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2017-2/) - 2017 Board Meetings 21 November 2017 Minutes Agenda 15 September 2017 Minutes Agenda 31 May 2017 Minutes Agenda 28 March 2017 Minutes Agenda
- [2018](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2018-2/) - 2018 Board Meetings 28 November 2018 Minutes Agenda 9 October 2018 Minutes Agenda 30 May 2018 Minutes Agenda 20 March 2018 Minutes Agenda
- [2019](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2019-2/) - 2019 Board Meetings 27 November 2019 Minutes Agenda 19 September 2019 Minutes Agenda 21 May 2019 Minutes Agenda 20 March 2019 Minutes Agenda
- [2020](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2020-2/) - 2020 Board Meetings 25 November 2020 Minutes Agenda 18 September 2020 Minutes Agenda 3 June 2020 Minutes Agenda 23 March 2020 Minutes Agenda
- [2021](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2021-2/) - 2021 Board Meetings 23 November 2021 Minutes Agenda 20 September 2021 Minutes Agenda 20 May 2021 Minutes Agenda 22 March 2021 Minutes Agenda 19 January 2021 Minutes Agenda
- [2022](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/board-meetings/2022-2/) - 2022 Board Meetings 21 November 2022 Minutes Agenda 20 September 2022 Minutes Agenda 30 May 2022 Minutes Agenda 24 March 2022 Minutes Agenda
- [Annual Workshop 2018 Presentations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2018-2/annual-workshop-2018-presentations/) - Annual Workshop 2018 Presentations Jill Farrington, Keynote Speaker Martin Peters: How to go about ‘strategising’ Matthias Wilhelm: The Swiss National Strategy on CVD, Stroke and Diabetes 2017-2024 Claus Beck-Tange: Rethinking Strategy Floris Italianer: Dutch Heart Foundation strategy 2018-2022: Acceleration in realising impact Gabriel Tatu-Chiţoiu: Prevention of cardiovascular diseases. How to educate? Our way. Dan Gaita:
- [Annual Workshop 2019 Presentations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2019-2/annual-workshop-2019-presentations/) - Annual Workshop 2019 Presentations João Breda: Outcome of the Third UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs – implications for WHO European Region José Luis Castro: Civil society contribution at global level Susanne Løgstrup: ECDA: NCDs at the regional level Christine Dehn: NCD activities in Germany Anette Jansson: Working together in NCD Alliance and other alliances to
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2019](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2019-2/) - 2019 EHN Annual Workshop - Puglia, Italy Final programme Final Conference Pack Member campaign films Below are the member campaign films that were shown during the Communications session on Thursday 23 May. Finnish Heart Association Video 1 Video 2 Video 3 Video 4 Irish Heart Assocation ChairTrap Hungry Couch Swarm of Chairs Swooping Chair EHN
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2021](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2021-2/) - 2021 Annual Workshop - Virtual meetings Virtual meeting 21 October 2021 Due to Covid-19, the EHN Annual Workshop of 2021 is replaced by a series of virtual meetings. This third meeting focuses on Cross-border topics: CVD and Covid in the European Union for Health, cooperation in Europe, cross-border Research. Read more Virtual meeting 20 May 2021
- [Virtual meeting 25 February 2021](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2021-2/virtual-meeting-25-february-2021/) - 2021 EHN Annual Workshop - Virtual Meeting #1 Due to Covid-19, the EHN Annual Workshop of 2021 is replaced by a series of virtual meetings. This first virtual meeting, on 25 February, focuses on Covid-19. The following documents are available Programme of the meeting Session 1: Vaccination and patient communication in times of Covid-19 Recording of
- [Virtual meeting 20 May 2021](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2021-2/virtual-meeting-20-may-2021/) - 2021 EHN Annual Workshop - Virtual Meeting #2 Due to Covid-19, the EHN annual workshop is replaced by a series of virtual meetings. The second virtual meeting, on 20 May, focuses on the digital agenda. The following documents are available: Programme of the meeting Recording of the session Session 1: The European Health Data Space: an
- [Virtual meeting 21 October 2021](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2021-2/virtual-meeting-21-october-2021/) - 2021 EHN Annual workshop - Virtual meeting #3 Due to Covid-19, the EHN Annual Workshop of 2021 is replaced by a series of virtual meetings. This third meeting, on 21 October, focuses on Cross-border topics: CVD and Covid in the European Union for Health, cooperation in Europe, cross-border Research. Final agenda of the meeting. Recording session 1:
- [Members Only](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/) - Members Only
- [EHN Nutrition Labelling seminar (21 April 2008)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ehn-nutrition-labelling-seminar-21-april-2008/) - EHN Nutrition Labelling seminar (21 April 2008) On 21 April 2008, EHN organised a meeting for its members to determine its lobbying strategy with regard to the Commission's proposal for a Regulation on the provision of food information to consumers. The following documents can be found here: Agenda Summary from the meeting Presentation by Helen
- [CEECs meeting in Slovakia (17 October 2012)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ceecs-meeting-in-slovakia-17-october-2012/) - CEECs meeting in Slovakia (17 October 2012) Please find here the report and the presentations from the CEECs meeting in Slovakia, held on 17 October 2012. CEEC Meeting 17 October 2012 - Minutes of the meeting Marleen Kestens Presentation Ján Slezák Presentation Romanian Heart Foundation Presentation Jan Lietava Presentation Branislav Vohnout
- [Nutrition Advocacy Meeting (21 October 2020)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/nutrition-advocacy-meeting-21-october-2020/) - Nutrition Advocacy Meeting (21 October 2020) On 21 October EHN organised its nutrition advocacy meeting for EHN members. the meeting focused on two themes: Front of Pack Nutrition Labelling (FOPL) Global Food Systems and their impact on Health Please find here the following documents from the meeting Agenda of the meeting Summary report of the meeting
- [Tobacco control webinar (4 June 2020)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/tobacco-control-webinar-4-june-2020/) - Tobacco control webinar (4 June 2020) The following documents from the webinar are available: Programme of the meeting Summary report from the meeting Presentations from the webinar: Anca Toma Friedlaender: The importance of the FCTC and the EU’s role in implementing it Kari Reijula: Tobacco Free Finland 2030 - mission possible Robert Keller: Be cool – not a smoking
- [Other Topics](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/food-and-nutrition/) - EHN Seminars and Workshops EHN Nutrition meeting (24 October 2022) Healthier Together Initiative (17 January 2022) Nutrition Advocacy Meeting (21 October 2020) Tobacco control webinar (4 June 2020) Nutrition and advocacy meeting (16 -17 October 2019) Nutrition and advocacy meeting (19 - 20 November 2018) EHN Workshop on Advocacy (8 November 2017) EHN Workshop on
- [Planning and organising for Heart Foundations (6-7 February 2008)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/planning-and-organising-for-heart-foundations-6-7-february-2008/) - Planning and organising for Heart Foundations (6-7 February 2008) Seminar organised in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia on 6 - 7 February 2008. The following documents can be found below: Summary of the meeting Presentation of Hans Stam: introducing the European Heart Network Presentation of Hans Stam and Ingrid Gordijn: Fundraising and Direct marketing Presentation of Elizabeta Bobnar
- [CEECs meeting in Brussels (27 November 2013)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ceecs-meeting-in-brussels-27-november-2013/) - CEECs meeting in Brussels (27 November 2013) On 27 November, representatives of the CEECs countries met in Brussels to discuss particular issues related to running a Heart Foundation in one of the CEECs countries. The agenda, draft report and presentations made during this meeting can be downloaded via the links below. Agenda Summary of the
- [CEEC meeting (26 November 2014)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ceec-meeting-26-november-2014/) - CEEC meeting (26 November 2014) Please find here the report and the presentations from the CEECs meeting in the UK (London, BHF offices), held on 26 November 2014. The following documents can be downloaded: Summary of the meeting Romanian Heart Foundation Strategy CPR toolkit: a nation of life savers
- [EHN meeting on reducing children’s exposure to marketing of unhealthy foods to children (27 March 2015)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ehn-meeting-on-reducing-childrens-exposure-to-marketing-of-unhealthy-foods-to-children-27-march-2015/) - EHN meeting on reducing children’s exposure to marketing of unhealthy foods to children (27 March 2015) On 27 March 2015 EHN organised a meeting on reducing children’s exposure to marketing of unhealthy foods to children. Please find here the agenda and the report from the meeting as well as the presentations given during this meeting.
- [EHN workshop on Food Reformulation (7 December 2015)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ehn-workshop-on-food-reformulation-7-december-2015/) - EHN workshop on Food Reformulation (7 December 2015) On 7 December 2015, EHN organised a workshop for its members on Food Reformulation. The following documents can be found here Agenda of the meeting Report from the meeting Presentations Letteke Boot, Dutch ministry of health (on the Dutch Council presidency initiative on Food Product Improvement) Jennifer
- [EHN workshop on AVMSD and Food Reformulation (27 October 2016)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ehn-workshop-on-avmsd-and-food-reformulation-27-october-2016/) - EHN workshop on AVMSD and Food Reformulation (27 October 2016) On 27 October 2016, EHN organised a workshop on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive and on Food Reformulation Here are the documents and presentations from the meeting Agenda Summary report Presentation Joanna Wrona, DG Connect on the AVMSD Presentation Marleen Kestens on the AVMSD Presentation
- [EHN Workshop on Nutrition 2017 (7-8 November 2017)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ehn-workshop-on-nutrition-2017-7-8-november-2017/) - EHN Workshop on Nutrition 2017 (7-8 November 2017) On 7 - 8 November EHN organised a workshop for its members on Nutrition. The following documents can be consulted here: Agenda of the meeting Nutrition meeting summary report Presentations Marketing of unhealthy foods in the Netherlands, Carolien Martens, Relation manager public affairs, Dutch Heart Foundation A public campaign
- [EHN Workshop on Advocacy (8 November 2017)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ehn-workshop-on-advocacy-8-november-2017/) - EHN Workshop on Advocacy (8 November 2017) On 8 November, EHN organised a workshop for its members on how to do advocacy. The following documents can be found here: Agenda of the meeting Advocacy meeting summary report Presentation EU decision making procedure by Marleen Kestens, European Heart Network Presentation Towards A Tobacco Free Future in the Netherlands by Rutger Haandrikman, Dutch
- [Nutrition and advocacy meeting (19 - 20 November 2018)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/nutrition-and-advocacy-meeting-19-20-november-2018/) - Nutrition and advocacy meeting (19 - 20 November 2018) On 19 - 20 November EHN organised a workshop on advocacy (19 November) and nutrition (20 November). Below are the documents from this meeting: Agenda Nutrition and Advocacy Meeting 19-20 November Report from the meeting Presentations Engaging with the European Parliament - presentation by Barbara Mariani
- [Nutrition and advocacy meeting (16 -17 October 2019)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/nutrition-and-advocacy-meeting-16-17-october-2019/) - Nutrition and advocacy meeting (16 -17 October 2019) On 16 - 17 October EHN organised a nutrition and advocacy meeting for its members. Below are the documents from the meeting: Agenda Nutrition and Advocacy Meeting Report from the meeting Presentations Day 1 Spotlight on the new European Mandate - Richard Steel, Senior Advisor, Interel The Heavy
- [Healthier Together Initiative (17 January 2022)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/healthier-together-initiative-17-january-2022/) - Healthier Together Initiative (17 January 2022) On 17 January 2022 EHN organised a webinar for its members on the European Commission 'Healthier Together Initiative'. Please find here the following documents: Summary note of the meeting EHN presentation on the EU4Health Initiative Template form for EHN members EU4Health National Focal Points experts (unoffical list - please check names in
- [EHN Nutrition meeting (24 October 2022)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/member-documents/ehn-nutrition-meeting-24-october-2022/) - EHN Nutrition meeting (24 October 2022) On 24 October 2022 EHN organised its nutrition meeting in Brussels (hybrid meeting). The main topics discussed were Front of pack nutrition labelling Sustainable Food Systems Please find here a link to the documents from the meeting Final agenda Report from meeting Presentation by Chantal Julia (Revised algorithm for Nutri-Score) Presentation
- [EHN Patients Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (22-23 October 2014)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/patient-platform/ehn-patients-seminar-brussels-belgium-22-23-october-2014/) - EHN Patients Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (22-23 October 2014) The latest Patients' Seminar meeting took place in Brussels on the 22nd and 23rd of October 2014. Many patients' associations within EHN membership participated in the event, with a handful of external speakers. The meeting focused on mobile health, small local patients' groups involvement and EHN
- [EHN Patients Seminar - Frankfurt, Germany (27-28 April 2016)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/patient-platform/ehn-patients-seminar-frankfurt-germany-27-28-april-2016/) - EHN Patients Seminar - Frankfurt, Germany (27-28 April 2016) On 27-28 April 2016 the Germany Heart Foundation invited EHN member organisations for an EHN patients seminar at their premises in Frankfurt. The German Heart Foundation presented their way of working with and for CVD patients. A very interesting exchange of information between the German Heart
- [EHN Patients Seminar - Madrid, Spain (26-27 October 2017)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/patient-platform/ehn-patients-seminar-madrid-spain-26-27-october-2017/) - EHN Patients Seminar - Madrid, Spain (26-27 October 2017) The 2017 European Heart Network (EHN) Patients’ Seminar took place on 26-27 October, kindly hosted by the Spanish Heart Foundation in Madrid, Spain. The one and half day meeting focused on exchanging members’ best practices on key patient-related issues such as familial hypercholesterolemia, empowerment and treatment
- [EHN Patient Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (24 -25 October 2018)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/patient-platform/ehn-patient-seminar-brussels-belgium-24-25-october-2018/) - EHN Patient Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (24 -25 October 2018) The 2018 European Heart Network (EHN) Patients’ Seminar took place on 24-25 October. The meeting focused on the following topics: Person centred care, patient advocacy, heart failure, cardiovascular rehabilitation, and challenges for 2019 - 2020. EHN also welcomed a representative from the Latvian Patient Organisation
- [EHN Patient Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (29-30 October 2019)](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/patient-platform/ehn-patient-seminar-brussels-29-30-october-2019/) - EHN Patient Seminar - Brussels, Belgium (29-30 October 2019) The 2019 European Heart Network (EHN) Patients’ Seminar took place in Brussels on 29-30 October. The meeting focused on working closer with patients followed by joint exchanges with the EHN Research Platform with a special focus on patients' meaningful involvement in research. The report from the meeting
- [EHN Annual Workshop 2022](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2022-2/) - EHN Annual Workshop 2022 - Madrid, Spain General workshop information The 2022 Annual Workshop will take place in Madrid from 30 May till 1 June 2022. EHN plans for this year's annual workshop to be a hybrid event. We are excited to reconnect with all EHN members in Madrid and online during our workshop sessions!
- [Annual Workshop 2022 Presentations](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop/2022-2/aw-2022-presentations/) - Annual Workshop 2022 Presentations Please find all the inspiring presentations from the 2022 Annual Workshop in Madrid here. DAY 1 - National CVD plans, European initatives, and Global perspectives on healthy environments Scottish NCD plan by David McColgan (BHF Scotland) Spanish strategy on cardiovascular health by Hector Bueno (Spanish Ministry of Health) German CVD Strategy by Christine
- [EHN General Assembly 2019](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2019-2/) - EHN General Assembly 2019 - Puglia, Italy Please click on the relevant links below to read the supporting documentation in respect of the 2019 EHN General Assembly, which was held in Puglia, Italy, on 22 May 2019. General Assembly Agenda 2019 Item 1: Approval of Minutes, Lucerne, 2018 Item 2: Approval of Annual Report 2018
- [EHN General Assembly 2018](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2018-2/) - 2018 EHN Annual General Assembly - Lucern, Switzerland Please click on the relevant links below to read the supporting documentation in respect of the 2018 EHN General Assembly, which was held in Lucerne, Switzerland, on 31 May 2018. General Assembly Agenda 2018 Document 1 Minutes, Noordwijk 2017 Document 2 Annual Report 2017 Document 3 Audited
- [EHN General Assembly 2021](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2021-2/) - EHN General Assembly 2021 - Virtual Supporting documents: Please click on the relevant links below to read the supporting documentation from the 2021 EHN General Assembly, which was held via virtual meeting on 20 May 2021. Draft Minutes 20 May 2021_virtual General Assembly Agenda 2021 Item 1: Minutes 4 June virtual GA meeting 2020 Item
- [EHN General Assembly 2022](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/member-subpage-2/annual-meetings/annual-workshop-2/2022-2/) - EHN General Assembly 2022 - Madrid, Spain EHN Annual General Assembly - supporting documents: Please click on the relevant links below to read the supporting documentation for the 2022 EHN General Assembly, which will be held in a hybrid format, in Madrid on 31 May 2022. General Assembly Agenda 2022 Item 1: Minutes 20 May
- [Latest News](https://ehnheart.org/members-area/latest-news/)
- [Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/northern-ireland-chest-heart-stroke/) - Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke provides expert care and support to anyone at risk of or currently living with chest, heart and stroke conditions. The organization also funds local ground-breaking research into better treatments, care and prevention. Working with people across the province, they have been delivering our
- [EHN Paper on research involving animals](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/ehn-paper-on-research-involving-animals-2/) - Scientists use animals to learn more about health problems that affect both humans and animals, and to assure the safety of new drugs and medical treatments. Some diseases can only be studied in a living organism and it is not always possible or ethical to use humans. The research community is constantly developing new techniques
- [What is the value of digital tools for cardiovascular patients?](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/what-is-the-value-of-digital-tools-for-cardiovascular-patients-2/) - Digital innovation in health can improve diagnosis, cardiovascular patients’ care, treatment and management. This research paper funded by the European Heart Network, offers an overview of existing evidence on effectiveness of digital tools for primary and secondary prevention, heart failure management, home-hospitalisation for heart failure patients, diagnosis and management of cardiac arrythmias and remote monitoring
- [Awareness Raising on Women and CVD](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/awareness-raising-on-women-and-cvd/) - Awareness Raising on Women and CVD. Overview of events and activities organised by heart foundations and cardiac societies in the field of CVD prevention for women. This report was prepared in the framework of Work Package 6 of the EuroHeart project. More information on the report and on the EuroHeart project can be found via this link.
- [A healthy heart for European women](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/a-healthy-heart-for-european-women/) - There is a widespread misconception that heart disease is mostly a male disease. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of death in both men and women in Europe, causing more deaths than all cancers combined. CVD accounts for 46% of all deaths in women, as compared to 39% of all deaths in men in
- [Red Alert for Women's Hearts](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/red-alert-for-womens-hearts/) - Red Alert for Women's Hearts; Women and cardiovascular research in Europe. Report prepared in the framework of Work Package 6 of the EuroHeart project. The report addresses the issue of women's representation in cardiovascular clinical research by collecting information on clinical trials and registries in Europe.
- [Heart Failure and Cardiovascular Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/heart-failure-and-cardiovascular-diseases/) - Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in Europe as well as in the European Union (EU), where it is responsible for 3.9 and 1.8 million deaths respectively every year. CVD mortality is falling in most European countries. However, declining death rates do not go hand in hand with declining morbidity. The
- [STRESS and cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/stress-and-cardiovascular-disease-2/) - For several reasons, the concept of stress has played a much more important role in ideas about cardiovascular disease (CVD) among laymen than among experts. On a theoretical level, stress is more difficult for health care practitioners to define and assess than widely accepted coronary risk factors such as physical activity, tobacco smoking, serum cholesterol
- [Women's Health at Heart](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/womens-health-at-heart-2/) - On 7 March 2006, the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology organised a joint conference on Women's Health at Heart. Conference Objective: The June 2004 Health Council conclusions and the June 2005 Luxembourg Declaration called upon Member States and the European Commission to promote cardiovascular health. This conference on Women's Health at
- [Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in the European Union](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/physical-activity-and-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-the-european-union-2/) - Raising physical activity levels amongst the general population has been described as 'today's best buy in public health.' A more active lifestyle, even one with low intensity or short-burst types of activity, lowers CVD risks. EHN recommends, among other things, developing an EU policy that enhances physical activity, linked to policies in other relevant areas.
- [Food, Nutrition and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in the European Region: Challenges for the New Millennium](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/food-nutrition-and-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-the-european-region-challenges-for-the-new-millennium-2/) - The European region, including Central and Eastern Europe, is facing a huge forthcoming burden from cardiovascular diseases. The demographic effect of an ageing population in the West and the deteriorating health and economic situation in the East mean that the European region will be confronted with a large increase in the number of people with
- [Fighting cardiovascular disease – a blueprint for EU action](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/the-burden-of-cardiovascular-disease-cvd-is-greater-than-that-of-any-other-disease-and-the-leading-cause-of-death-in-europe-and-in-the-world-to-address-this-burden-the-european-heart-network-and-2/) - The burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is greater than that of any other disease and the leading cause of death in Europe and in the world. To address this burden, the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology have developed a Blueprint for EU action.
- [Children and Young People - the Importance of Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/children-and-young-people-the-importance-of-physical-activity-2/) - Many of the serious diseases of adult life have their origins in a younger age. One of them is obesity, a symptom of an imbalance between caloric intake as food and calories expended through physical activity. This is a strong rationale for encouraging the development of healthy habits among young people. This EHN publication sets
- [Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/transforming-european-food-and-drink-policies-for-cardiovascular-health-2/) - Despite considerable progress in tackling cardiovascular disease (CVD), it remains the leading cause of death and a major cause of illness and disability for men and women in Europe. Dietary risks are responsible for around half of the death and disability caused by CVD and may cost the economy of the European Union economy €102
- [Trans fatty acids and heart disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/trans-fatty-acids-and-heart-disease-2/) - EHN has updated its paper on trans fatty acids and heart disease, to inform the debate on how best to eliminate industrially produced TFAs from foodstuffs marketed in the European Union.
- [The marketing of unhealthy foods to children in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/the-marketing-of-unhealthy-foods-to-children-in-europe/) - A report of Phase 1 of the 'Children, obesity and associated chronic diseases' project.
- [Summary of original research from December 2006 - June 2008 on consumer preferences and use of Front of Pack nutrition schemes](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/summary-of-original-research-from-december-2006-june-2008-on-consumer-preferences-and-use-of-front-of-pack-nutrition-schemes-2/) - In February 2007 the European Heart Network published a review of ‘Front of Pack’ nutrition schemes, which covered information up to and including November 2006. Since then the European Commission has adopted a proposal for a Regulation on the provision of food information to consumers (COM(2008) 40 final)) to combine Directive 2000/13/EC on labelling, presentation
- [Smoke Free Europe](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/smoke-free-europe/) - Smoke Free Europe makes economic sense. A report on the economic aspects of smoke free policies.
- [Review of 'Front of Pack' Nutrition Schemes](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/review-of-front-of-pack-nutrition-schemes-2/) - Review of current 'front of pack' nutrition schemes. The purpose of this review was to gain insights into the extent to which ‘front of pack’ schemes are used, the way in which such schemes might operate; presentational issues (i.e. the format e.g. traffic lights, descriptive words, symbols); the nutritional criteria used; and whether there has been any
- [Physical Activity Policies for Cardiovascular Health](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/physical-activity-policies-for-cardiovascular-health-2/) - Physical activity is an effective way to protect your heart. It is never too late to start and any exercise is better than none – though more is better. These are the main conclusions from the newest EHN report on Physical Activity Policies for Cardiovascular Health. Physical inactivity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by
- [Fruit and Vegetable Policy in the European Union](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/fruit-and-vegetable-policy-in-the-european-union/) - Fruit and Vegetable Policy in the European Union: its effect on the burden of cardiovascular disease. There is a huge burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Europe. CVD is responsible for 1.9 million (42% of the total) deaths in the European Union per year (Petersen, Peto et al. 2005). The World Health Organization (WHO) World
- [Lifting the Smokescreen](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/lifting-the-smokescreen-2/) - Lifting the Smokescreen; 10 reasons for a smoke free Europe. This report was commissioned in October 2004. At the time, Ireland had gone smoke free in March of that year, followed by Norway in June. On the other side of the world, New Zealand was due to follow suit in December 2004 and there were
- [Lifestyle and Risk of Heart Disease among Children and Adolescents](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/lifestyle-and-risk-of-heart-disease-among-children-and-adolescents-2/) - The increasing prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents has placed the lifestyle of these age groups on the political agenda. An unhealthy lifestyle during childhood and adolescence, in particular unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity, increases not only the risk of developing obesity but also, along with smoking, the risk of developing chronic diseases
- [Individual scientific reviews from the report on Diet, PA and CVD Prevention in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/individual-scientific-reviews-from-the-report-on-diet-pa-and-cvd-prevention-in-europe-2/) - Please find here the individual scientific reviews from the report on Diet, Physical Activity and CVD Prevention. Fibre Fats Antioxidants Alcohol Fruit and Vegetables Physical Activity Folate Sugars Salt Obesity and overweight
- [Expert reviews from Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/expert-reviews-from-transforming-european-food-and-drink-policies-for-cardiovascular-health-2/) - For the EHN paper 'Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health' expert reviews were performed on the following topics: dietary sugar, fats, salt, agriculture and food supply, food and environment, food promotion and trade and food. Please find here the links to these expert reviews: Dietary sugar Salt Fats Agriculture and food supply
- [Electronic Cigarettes and Cardiovascular Disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/electronic-cigarettes-and-cardiovascular-disease-2/) - The role and impact of electronic cigarettes continues to provoke a major public health debate in Europe and beyond. This updated EHN paper focuses on the effects of e-cigarette use on the cardiovascular system. It also presents information on trends in use of e-cigarettes, as well as marketing and regulation. Furthermore, it discusses the distinction
- [EHN research on Nutrient Profile Model](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/ehn-research-on-nutrient-profile-model-2/) - On 28 March, the European Heart Network published a report on "Reducing children's exposure to marketing of foods and drinks that are high in fat, salt or sugar. This report summarises recent developments in relation to the marketing of unhealthy foods to children, which form the background to a commitment that the European Heart Network
- [EHN paper on CVD Risk Assessment Programmes](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/new-ehn-paper-on-cvd-risk-assessment-programmes-2/) - To reduce the onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD), it is crucial to identify those persons at high risk of developing CVD, and to provide them with appropriate advice and preventive treatment. The EHN revised paper ‘Early detection of cardiovascular disease’ focuses on strategies for prevention at an individual level and early identification of so-called high-risk individuals; that is,
- [Diet, Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/diet-physical-activity-and-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-2/) - In November 2011 the European Heart Network published its new report on Diet, Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Europe. This new report reviews the latest evidence on the relationship between cardiovascular health and what we eat or how active we are. It also takes a close look at current European eating and physical
- [Consumer understanding of nutrition labelling](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/consumer-understanding-of-nutrition-labelling-2/) - In 2003 EHN undertook a systematic review of the research on consumer understanding of nutrition labelling. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine published and unpublished research into consumer understanding of nutrition labelling. It was undertaken in order to inform the European Heart Network’s (EHN) policy position on nutrition labelling and to provide a solid
- [Cardiovascular disease prevention in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-europe/) - Cardiovascular disease prevention in Europe: the unfinished agenda. Report prepared in the framework of Work Package 5 of the EuroHeart project. It gives an overview of national plans, policies and measures impacting on cardiovascular health promotion and cardiovascular disease prevention in 16 countries in Europe. More information on the report can be found via this link.
- [Cardiovascular disease prevention in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-europe-2/) - Cardiovascular disease prevention in Europe: the unfinished agenda. Report prepared in the framework of Work Package 5 of the EuroHeart project. It gives an overview of national plans, policies and measures impacting on cardiovascular health promotion and cardiovascular disease prevention in 16 countries in Europe. More information on the report can be found via this link.
- [Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/air-pollution-and-cardiovascular-diseases-2/) - In July 2017 EHN published a paper on Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Diseases. The aim of this paper is to provide information about the impact of air pollution on cardiovascular health; when we refer to air pollution, this is outdoor air pollution unless otherwise indicated. The paper presents recommendations to policy makers for action to reduce
- [2016 European Guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention in clinical practice](https://ehnheart.org/library/publications/2016-european-guidelines-on-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-clinical-practice-2/) - The 2016 Joint European Guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention in clinical practice is the sixth edition. They represent an evidence-based consensus of the 10 professional societies which were involved in developing them. The guidelines have been developed to support healthcare professionals communication with individuals about their cardiovascular (CV) risk and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle
- [EHN Paper on research involving animals](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/research/ehn-paper-on-research-involving-animals/) - Scientists use animals to learn more about health problems that affect both humans and animals, and to assure the safety of new drugs and medical treatments. Some diseases can only be studied in a living organism and it is not always possible or ethical to use humans. The research community is constantly developing new techniques
- [Nutrition and Health Claims: A European Heart Network Position Paper](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/nutrition-and-health-claims-a-european-heart-network-position-paper/) - 'Nutrition' claims are messages on food packaging or advertising that draw attention to the nutritional composition of products. 'Health' claims draw attention to their possible health benefits. In this paper EHN suggests a legal framework in which EU legislation on 'nutrition' and 'health' claims could work to promote public health.
- [WHO Global Strategy for Diet, Physical Activity & Health - EHN comments (July 2003)](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/who-global-strategy-for-diet-physical-activity-health-ehn-comments-july-2003/) - Please find here EHN's comments in respect of the World Health Organization's (WHO) initiative to develop a global strategy on diet, physical activity and health.
- [EHN's response on nutrition and health claims](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehns-response-on-nutrition-and-health-claims/) - In this paper, EHN sets out its position on the European Commission's proposal for a Regulation on nutrition and health claims. EHN welcomes the restriction of claims to foods that have a specific nutrient profile but finds that the Commission's proposal does not consider the promotion of public health sufficiently.
- [EHN Position on Public Health Programme 2007-2013](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-position-on-public-health-programme-2007-2013/) - European Heart Network position on the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, The Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on Healthier, safer, more confident citizens: a Health and Consumer protection Strategy and the proposal for a Decision of the European Parliament and the Council establishing a Programme
- [EU tax policy on tobacco products](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/eu-tax-policy-on-tobacco-products/) - According to the World Bank, high taxes on tobacco are the single most effective intervention to prevent smoking. According to the World Bank, high taxes on tobacco are the single most effective intervention to prevent smoking. The European Community has a history of more than 30 years of regulating the taxes on tobacco products. On
- [NGO position paper on Audiovisual Media Services](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ngo-position-paper-on-audiovisual-media-services/) - Five leading Health NGOs (the European Heart Network, the European Public Health Alliance, Eurocare, the Pharmaceutical group of the EU and the European Respiratory Society) have developed a common position paper on the Commission proposal for Directive on Audivisual Media Services (revision of the Television Without Frontiers directive). In the position paper, you can find
- [Structure and rates of excise duty](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/structure-and-rates-of-excise-duty/) - European Heart Network’s response to the European Commission’s Consultation Paper on the structure and rates of excise duty applied on cigarettes and other manufactured tobacco.
- [EHN statement on tobacco use, harm reduction and product regulation](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-tobacco-use-harm-reduction-and-product-regulation/) - Every year over 1.9 million people die from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in the European Union. Over 180 000 deaths from CVD are caused by smoking. In order to reduce effectively the risk of CVD from the use of tobacco and nicotine products, such use must be eliminated completely. To eliminate the use of tobacco products,
- [Food labelling](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/food-labelling/) - EHN position on the Commission proposal on consumer information on food products
- [Nutrient Profiles](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/nutrient-profiles/) - EHN has given its views on nutrient profiles models. EHN has also written a letter to MEPs explaining why nutrient profiles cannot be deleted from the 2006 Claims regulation.
- [Food Information to Consumers](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/food-information-to-consumers/) - Research and position papers on food information to consumers. Below are the following documents: EHN research on consumer preferences and use of Front of Pack nutrition schemes (report from 2007 and 2008); Common position of EHN, BEUC and EPHA on the need for mandatory nutrition labelling. Australian Research on 'Front of Pack Labelling - traffic light labelling gets the
- [The Future of the Common Agricultural Policy - EHN's response](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/the-future-of-the-common-agricultural-policy-ehns-response/) - Europe needs a strong and effective European Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), now more than ever. CAP is essential in guaranteeing how food is produced, distributed and consumed - both at European and global level. Europe needs a CAP that is based on a model of how farming and food can deliver multiple benefits to society
- [EHN position on nutrient profiles](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-position-on-nutrient-profiles/) - EHN has written a letter to MEPs asking to keep the article on nutrient profiles in the Claims regulation.
- [The European Heart Network calls for a centralised CVD patients registry](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/the-european-heart-network-calls-for-a-centralised-cvd-patients-registry/) - The European Heart Network, together with the European Society of Cardiology call for a centralised, comprehensive European cardiovascular diseases registry to ensure effective service planning and quality of care for patients across the EU. This would provide an important and effective tool for a patient-centred health care in the future.
- [EHN comment on JAMA paper on salt](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-comment-on-jama-paper-on-salt/) - Find here the European Heart Network comment on the recent JAMA paper on salt, blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
- [EHN's Position on Article 13.1 (claims)](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehns-position-on-article-13-1-claims/) - EHN considers that the majority of claims in the working document on the establishment of the list of permitted health claims under the claims regulation’s article 13.1 are not relevant.
- [Health for Growth Programme](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/health-for-growth-programme/) - EHN's comments on the Health for Growth programme.
- [Nutrition claim: Now contains X% less](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/nutrition-claim-now-contains-x-less/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) expresses its concerns about the proposed revision of the annex of the Health and Nutrition Claims Regulation 1924/2006/EC (Claims Regulation) to allow two new nutrition claims: “No added salt” and “Now contains X% less”. It is not clear to us how these claims provide any added value to people and
- [New EHN statement on salt](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/new-ehn-statement-on-salt/) - There is no doubt, across Europe we are eating too much salt - far more than is needed. Please find here the new EHN statement on salt which is based on independent review of the evidence on salt (sodium) and cardiovascular diseases, done in the framework of the publication on "Diet, physical activity and cardiovascular disease prevention
- [EHN statements on WHO Europe's Health 2020](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statements-on-who-europes-health-2020/) - On the occasion of the 62nd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe the European Heart Network (EHN) made an oral and a written statement welcoming the European policy framework for health and well-being ('Health 2020') proposed by the WHO Regional Office for Europe. In its statement, EHN recognises the impressive description and analysis of
- [EHN Position Paper on Clinical Trials Regulation Proposal](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-position-paper-on-clinical-trials-regulation-proposal/) - The European Heart Network adopted its position paper on the European Commission proposal for a Regulation on Clinical Trials. The proposal published this summer reviews the current Clinical Trials Directive, and aims at improving clinical research in Europe. EHN broadly supports the proposal from the European Commission, acknowledging the efforts to provide a better-functioning network for developing and testing
- [EHN Paper on eHealth](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-paper-on-ehealth/) - The European Heart Network adopted its paper on eHealth, focusing on the implications for cardiovascular patients of the recent development of eHealth applications. The paper has been adopted following debates within the EHN patients group at recent EHN patients seminars.
- [EHN Paper on Cardiac & Stroke Rehabilitation](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-paper-on-cardiac-stroke-rehabilitation/) - On the 25th of January, the European Heart Network published its paper on cardiac and stroke rehabilitation programmes. This paper aims at providing information to stakeholders about rehabilitation programmes for patients that have suffered a cardiac event or a stroke.
- [Tobacco Products Directive](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/tobacco-products-directive/) - The Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) will help reduce premature death and disease from heart disease and stroke and protect the next generation. For more information on facts and fiction, below you will find EHN’s position on labelling and packaging; figures on tobacco use and CVD; and a paper countering myths. Labelling and Packaging Fact Sheet
- [EHN Statement on the hybrid traffic light scheme](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-the-hybrid-traffic-light-scheme/) - EHN is aware that Italy has raised concerns about the UK hybrid traffic light system in several Council constellations, including the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, the Competitiveness Council and the Health and Consumer Affairs Council. EHN has made this statement in response to assertions made by Italy.
- [Evidence on saturated fat and heart disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/evidence-on-saturated-fat-and-heart-disease-2/) - A new study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine on 18 March 2014, raises questions about current guidelines which generally restrict the consumption of saturated fats and encourage consumption of polyunsaturated fats to prevent heart disease. The European Heart Network (EHN) is reminded that this is not the first time that the issue has been
- [Food Taxes and Competitiveness in the Agri-Food Sector](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/food-taxes-and-competitiveness-in-the-agri-food-sector/) - EHN has drafted a statement on the study "Food taxes and their impact on competitiveness in the agri-food sector".
- [EHN Statement at the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe Copenhagen, 15-18 September 2014](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-at-the-64th-session-of-the-who-regional-committee-for-europe-copenhagen-15-18-september-2014/) - Statement by the European Heart Network made at the 64th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, Copenhagen, 15-18 September 2014, on the European Food and Nutrition Action Plan 2015-2020.
- [CVD Risk Assessment Programmes - EHN Position Paper](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/cvd-risk-assessment-programmes-ehn-position-paper/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) paper on cardiovascular risk assessment reviews the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of programmes aimed at identifying people at high risk of developing and dying prematurely from CVD. The paper has been updated in November 2014 to take into account new findings from recent studies. EHN recommends that the European Commission, as part of
- [TTIP and Cardiovascular Health](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ttip-and-cardiovascular-health/) - While negotiations continue on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), EHN has published a paper on “TTIP, international trade and cardiovascular health”. You may wish also to consult this London School of Economics paper on "The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership: International Trade Law, Health Systems and Public Health".
- [Evidence on saturated fat and heart disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/evidence-on-saturated-fat-and-heart-disease/) - Following a new study published today in Open Heart journal, EHN has published a statement on "Evidence on saturated fat and heart disease". The study can be found here on the BMJ website. Also, please find further commentary on the study here on the Science Media Centre website.
- [WHO Europe Nutrient Profile Model](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/who-europe-nutrient-profile-model/) - EHN has published today a statement on the new WHO Europe nutrient profile model, which has been developed in close cooperation with the Member States of WHO Europe.
- [Marketing of HFSS food to children](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/marketing-of-hfss-food-to-children/) - EHN in conjunction with the University of Liverpool School of Law and Social Justice has today published a paper on the marketing to children of foods high in saturated fats, trans fatty acids, free sugars, or salt.
- [Recommendations on Data Protection Regulation](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/recommendations-on-data-protection-regulation/) - EHN has published its recommendations for the revision of the Data Protection Regulation, ahead of the trilogue negotiations. The recommendations underline the need for a balance approach between the availability of data for research purposes and high privacy standards for patients and data subjects.
- [EHN sends open letter to Commission on Trans Fatty Acids](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-sends-open-letter-to-commission-on-trans-fatty-acids/) - BEUC, CPME, EHN, EPHA, Kellogg Company, Mars, Mondelēz and Nestlé are concerned about the health effects of trans fats from partially hydrogenated oils. They sent an Open letter to the Commission on 15 October 2015.
- [European Commission Report on trans fats](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/european-commission-report-on-trans-fats/) - Today the European Commission published its report on trans fats in foods and in the overall diet of the EU population. Read EHN statement.
- [Good for you?](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/good-for-you/) - EHN has today published a position paper describing the role of nutrient profiles in the context of the EU regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims made on foods. Here are some examples of food products with nutrition claims, but which do not have a healthy nutrition profile. Examples from Finland Examples from
- [Advocate General’s opinion on the EU Tobacco Products Directive](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/advocate-generals-opinion-on-the-eu-tobacco-products-directive/) - In her Opinions issued today, Advocate General Juliane Kokott concludes that the 2014 EU Tobacco Products Directive of 2014 was lawfully adopted.
- [FCTC’s Article 5.3 requires gold standard](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/fctcs-article-5-3-requires-gold-standard/) - Today the European Commission has published its opinion on the European Ombudsman’s recommendation on the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) Article 5.3.
- [EHN Statement at the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe Copenhagen, 12-15 September 2016](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-at-the-66th-session-of-the-who-regional-committee-for-europe-copenhagen-12-15-september-2016/) - Statement by the European Heart Network made at the 66th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, Copenhagen, 12-15 September 2016, on the NCD action plan (2016-2025). EHN welcomes the WHO Regional Office for Europe’s proposed Action plan for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (2016-2025). In particular, EHN welcomes that the Plan: -
- [AVMSD: ads promoting unhealthy food to children lead to heart disease and stroke](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/avmsd-ads-promoting-unhealthy-food-to-children-lead-to-heart-disease-and-stroke/) - The EC proposal for a new audiovisual media services directive (AVMSD) offers a unique opportunity to protect children from advertising linked to unhealthy eating behaviour. The review of the AVMSD offers a unique opportunity to the EU to close existing gaps and require strong mandatory measures in line with existing evidence to reduce the marketing
- [AVMSD - improving food marketing to children](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/avmsd-improving-food-marketing-to-children/) - EHN supports the joint statement published today by EPHA on improving the Audiovisual Marketing Services Directive (AVMSD). The recommendations are: 1. Minimise young people’s exposure to marketing of health-harmful products 2. Exclude alcohol and foods high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) from product placement and sponsorship 3. Ensure that Member States can effectively limit broadcasts
- [EHN Paper on electronic cigarettes and cardiovascular diseases](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-paper-on-electronic-cigarettes-and-cardiovascular-diseases/) - It is reasonable to assume that if existing smokers switched completely from conventional cigarettes to e-cigarettes there would be a lower disease burden caused by nicotine addiction. However, e-cigarettes are not harmless and pending more evidence, the precautionary principle would dictate that it is desirable to limit use and uptake, in particular among children and
- [EARA Statement supporting European Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/eara-statement-supporting-european-directive-2010-63-eu-on-the-protection-of-animals-used-for-scientific-purposes/) - EHN supports the statement of the European Animal Research Association (EARA) on European Directive 2010/63/EU on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes, made on behalf of leading biomedical research organisations, learned societies, industry representatives, universities and patient groups in Europe. The statement has been signed by 253 organisations. Please see the EARA website for regular updates on
- [EHN statement on current nutrition recommendations](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-current-nutrition-recommendations/) - In direct contrast to the conclusions of a recent speech by WHF past-President Dr Salim Yusuf, the EHN Expert Group on Nutrition asserts that there is no reason to question current nutrition recommendations.
- [EHN statement on the colour-coded nutrition labelling scheme](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-the-colour-coded-nutrition-labelling-scheme/) - EHN welcomes the commitment of six food giants (The Coca-Cola Company, Mars, Mondelez, Nestlé, PepsiCo and Unilever) to a robust nutrition labelling scheme that helps consumers make balanced and mindful choices, but urges caution as research shows no evidence that the provision of nutrition information on a per portion basis can reduce consumption.
- [EHN statement on the vote in the Culture Committee on the AVMSD](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-the-vote-in-the-culture-committee-on-the-avmsd/) - EHN expresses disappointment in the outcome of the Culture Committee vote today on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive.
- [Call for urgent adoption of EU-wide nutrient profiles](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/call-for-urgent-adoption-of-eu-wide-nutrient-profiles/) - Today three health and consumer organisations (including EHN) together with five food companies call for the urgent adoption of nutrient profiles in the context of the EU regulation on nutrition and health claims made on foods (Regulation EC 1924/2006). The nutrient profiles should have been proposed by the European Commission in January 2009 - no proposal
- [Company front of pack nutrition labelling initiative](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/company-front-of-pack-nutrition-labelling-initiative/) - EHN has today published a further statement on the proposal of six food giants (The Coca-Cola Company, Mars, Mondelez, Nestlé, PepsiCo and Unilever) to enhance their current simplified front of pack nutrition labelling scheme by adding traffic light colour-coding; also to integrate portion sizes into the colour-coding.
- [EHN statement on Evolved Nutrition Labelling Scheme](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-evolved-nutrition-labelling-scheme/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) attended, as an observer, a meeting organised on 22 May by the six companies - the Coca-Cola Company, Mars, Mondelez, Nestlé, PepsiCo and Unilever - that have proposed a simplified front of pack nutrition labelling scheme using a traffic light colour-coding on the basis of portion sizes.
- [Joint statement to WHO Euro on Action Plan](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/joint-statement-to-who-euro-on-action-plan/) - Joint statement to WHO Euro on the Food and Nutrition Action Plan.
- [EHN statement on the PURE study](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-the-pure-study/) - EHN has published a statement on the PURE study.
- [Joint statement on simplified front-of-pack nutrition labelling](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/joint-statement-on-simplified-front-of-pack-nutrition-labelling/) - Joint statement by BEUC, EHN and EPHA on simplified front-of-pack nutrition labelling.
- [EHN statement on the future of food and farming](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-the-future-of-food-and-farming/) - EHN statement on the future of food and farming.
- [EHN welcomes draft WHO guidelines on sat fats & trans fats](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-welcomes-draft-who-guidelines-on-sat-fats-trans-fats/) - The European Heart Network welcomes the draft WHO guidelines on saturated fatty acid and trans fatty acid intake for adults and children. This detailed, up-to-date review of the latest evidence by WHO, along with the clear message conveyed by the draft recommendations, is a most welcome contribution to the ongoing commentary about this issue.
- [EHN statement on World No Tobacco Day](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-world-no-tobacco-day/) - Gathered at its annual meeting, the members of the European Heart Network (EHN) today celebrate the World No Tobacco Day (WNTD).
- [EHN Statement on World Heart Day](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-statement-on-world-heart-day/) - World Heart Day 2018 - the right moment to commit to deliver heart health for all Europeans now, and into the future.
- [Joint Statement of WHF and EHN on Health Systems Respond to NCDs](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/joint-statement-of-whf-and-ehn-on-health-systems-respond-to-ncds/) - The European Heart Network welcomes the draft WHO guidelines on saturated fatty acid and trans fatty acid intake for adults and children. This detailed, up-to-date review of the latest evidence by WHO, along with the clear message conveyed by the draft recommendations, is a most welcome contribution to the ongoing commentary about this issue.
- [The future for CVD research after BREXIT](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/the-future-for-cvd-research-after-brexit/) - For the post-Brexit relationship between UK and EU CVD researchers, the close ties which have developed over the past thirty years, and which have benefitted patients across Europe, must not be severed.
- [EHN paper on Cardiovascular research in the context of the post-2020 European research framework](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/ehn-paper-on-cardiovascular-research-in-the-context-of-the-post-2020-european-research-framework/) - Cardiovascular disease (CVD) – including heart disease and stroke – affects 49 million people in the EU alone. CVD is the leading cause of death and a considerable burden of disability in the EU. Despite this, funding for CVD research through Horizon 2020 would appear to be quite modest (approx. 1% of total research projects compared to, for
- [EHN Manifesto for European Elections 2019](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/only-a-nutrition-sensitive-cap-can-deliver-on-climate-and-health-2/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) calls on all 2019 political candidates and parties to pledge their commitment to improving cardiovascular health and the lives of those living with CVD.
- [Only a nutrition-sensitive CAP can deliver on climate and health](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/only-a-nutrition-sensitive-cap-can-deliver-on-climate-and-health/) - The evidence is clear: to secure a thriving future for people and planet we need to collectively transform our eating patterns towards healthier, more plant-rich diets. The EU’s common agricultural policy (CAP), now under reform, can facilitate this transition.
- [Make the Common Agriculture Policy work for Cardiovascular Health](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/make-the-common-agriculture-policy-work-for-cardiovascular-health/) - The Common Agriculture Policy, now under reform, can facilitate a transition toward healthier more sustainable diets.
- [Joint statement regarding EU platform for action on diet, physical activity and health](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/joint-statement-regarding-eu-platform-for-action-on-diet-physical-activity-and-health/) - EHN and six other organisations have taken the decision to leave the EU platform for action on diet, physical activity and health. By decreasing the resources allocated to the Platform, we believe the EC acknowledges the limited impact it, and the voluntary approach it embodies, can have.
- [Electronic Cigarettes and Cardiovascular Disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/electronic-cigarettes-and-cardiovascular-disease/) - The role and impact of electronic cigarettes continues to provoke a major public health debate in Europe and beyond. This updated EHN paper focuses on the effects of e-cigarette use on the cardiovascular system. It also presents information on trends in use of e-cigarettes, as well as marketing and regulation. Furthermore, it discusses the distinction
- [Joint letter: Farm to Fork needs an effective consumption strategy](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/joint-letter-farm-to-fork-needs-an-effective-consumption-strategy/) - The European Heart Network (EHN), European Public Health Alliance (EPHA) and European Public Health Association (EUPHA), have today sent a joint letter to European Commission Vice-President Frans Timmermans, strongly welcoming the commitment by the European Commission to launch a “Farm to Fork” strategy. The three organisations are pleased to see the Commission's intention to address
- [European Heart Network Statement on Front of Pack Nutrition Labelling](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/european-heart-network-statement/) - In September 2017 the European Heart Network (EHN) published Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health in which EHN recommended for the EU to adopt mandatory EU-wide simplified front-of-pack nutritional labelling. EHN specifically recommended a scheme which uses traffic light colours to indicate high, medium and low levels of fat, saturated fat, salt and (preferably
- [The missing heart attacks](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/the-missing-heart-attacks/) - People suffering heart attacks during the Coronavirus outbreak may be putting their lives at risk by delaying seeking medical help. In many European countries, people who show symptoms of heart attacks do not call an ambulance or go to the hospital. Data indicate that there is a decrease of up to 50% in the number
- [The missing heart attacks](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/the-missing-heart-attacks/) - People suffering heart attacks during the Coronavirus outbreak may be putting their lives at risk by delaying seeking medical help. In many European countries, people who show symptoms of heart attacks do not call an ambulance or go to the hospital. Data indicate that there is a decrease of up to 50% in the number
- [COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease – complexities that beckon answers](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/covid-19-and-cardiovascular-disease-complexities-that-beckon-answers/) - As more data on COVID-19 patients become available, the disease appears to be particularly devastating for cardiovascular patients. It goes well beyond the lungs, damaging the heart, brain and other organs. Furthermore, new observations regarding blood clotting also raise questions.
- [Statement on the EC proposal on Farm to Fork Strategy](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/statement-on-the-ec-proposal-on-farm-to-fork-strategy/) - EHN welcomes the European Commission’s Communication on a Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system.
- [EU4Health – an opportunity to tackle cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/eu4health-an-opportunity-to-tackle-cardiovascular-disease/) - EHN welcomes the new EU4Health programme which acknowledges that health promotion, disease prevention, treatment and care, are the cornerstone for well-functioning societies and economies.
- [Nutri-Score could become EU’s front-of-pack nutrition labelling scheme if underlying algorithm is revised](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/nutri-score-could-become-eus-front-of-pack-nutrition-labelling-scheme-if-underlying-algorithm-is-revised/) - Having reviewed the latest science, the European Heart Network (EHN) has adopted its position on front of pack nutrition labelling. EHN recommends that the EU consider adopting Nutri-Score as its harmonised, mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labelling scheme if – and only if – its algorithm is revised. The new algorithm must take into account national food-based
- [The future state of health in the European Union](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/the-future-state-of-health-in-the-european-union/) - At the end of a five-day marathon summit, EU Heads of State agreed on a budget for the next seven years in the early hours of 21 July. The compromise reached resulted in a cut of more than 80% in the budget of the EU4Health proposal. The future EU research framework, Horizon Europe, also saw
- [Use heart to beat the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/use-heart-to-beat-the-increasing-burden-of-cardiovascular-disease-in-europe/) - On World Heart Day, EHN stresses the urgent need to adress the increasing burden of CVD, especially in this time of Covid-19 crisis.
- [Heated Tobacco Products and cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/heated-tobacco-products-and-cardiovascular-disease/) - EHN's new position paper on Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs) and cardiovascular disease shows that HTPs are particularly harmful to the cardiovascular system as they increase the heart rate and blood pressure (similar to conventional cigarettes). HTPs have similar devastating effects on cardiovascular health as conventional cigarettes. Here are EHN's recommendations on Heated Tobacco Products: A clear
- [Food Environments and EU Food Policy](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/food-environments-and-eu-food-policy/) - European food policy should focus on creating enabling food environments that make the healthy and sustainable food choices the default and most desirable ones. These are the conclusions of a report published by the EU Food Policy Coalition (FPC) and to which EHN contributed. Food environments – the physical, economic, political and socio-cultural context in
- [Using public procurement for systemic food transformation](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/using-public-procurement-for-systemic-food-transformation/) - In its position paper on Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health, EHN refers to the need to use and improve public procurement policies to come to better, cardiovascular healthy dietary habits. Together with organisations involved in the public procurement task force of the EU Food Policy Coalition (FPC), of which EHN is
- [Partnership for Health in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/partnership-for-health-in-europe/) - Comments on behalf of the EHN in the context of the reflection process and in particular to the paper 'Partnership for Health in Europe'.
- [Revision of the Television without Frontiers Directive](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/revision-of-the-television-without-frontiers-directive-2/) - Observations on behalf of the EHN to the Issue Paper for the Audiovisual Conference in Liverpool regarding the Television Without Frontiers Directive.
- [Green Paper on Promoting Healthy Diets and Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/green-paper-on-promoting-healthy-diets-and-physical-activity/) - European Heart Network’s response to the European Commission’s Green Paper on “Promoting healthy diets and physical activity: A European dimension for the prevention of overweight, obesity and chronic diseases”.
- [Labelling: Competitiveness, Consumer Information and better regulation for the EU](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/labelling-competitiveness-consumer-information-and-better-regulation-for-the-eu/) - In 2003, EHN published a report of a systematic review of the literature on consumer understanding of nutrition labelling. In general terms, this study found that consumers do not understand some of the technical terms used on the current labels. Nor do they understand which nutrients are most important to look at, what counts as a
- [Revision of the Television without Frontiers Directive](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/revision-of-the-television-without-frontiers-directive/) - EHN's response to a Commission Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and the Council amending Council Directive 89/552/EEC.
- [Towards a reform of the common market organisation for the fresh and processed fruit and vegetable sectors.](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/towards-a-reform-of-the-common-market-organisation-for-the-fresh-and-processed-fruit-and-vegetable-sectors/) - European Heart Network response to “Towards a reform of the common market organisation for the fresh and processed fruit and vegetable sectors - Consultation document for impact assessment”
- [Health in Europe: A Strategic Approach](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/health-in-europe-a-strategic-approach/) - European Heart Network contribution to Health in Europe: A Strategic Approach - a European Commission discussion document for a Health Strategy.
- ['Towards a Europe free from tobacco smoke: policy options at EU level'.](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/towards-a-europe-free-from-tobacco-smoke-policy-options-at-eu-level/) - European Heart Network’s response to the European Commission’s Green Paper on “Towards a Europe free from tobacco smoke: policy options at EU level”
- [The EHN’s response to the EC Green Paper 'Towards a Europe free from tobacco smoke: policy options at EU level'.](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/the-ehns-response-to-the-ec-green-paper-towards-a-europe-free-from-tobacco-smoke-policy-options-at-eu-level/) - Please find here the European Heart Network’s response to the EC Green Paper 'Towards a Europe free from tobacco smoke: policy options at EU level'.
- [Structure and rates of excise duty](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/structure-and-rates-of-excise-duty/) - European Heart Network’s response to the European Commission’s Consultation Paper on the structure and rates of excise duty applied on cigarettes and other manufactured tobacco.
- [Commission Draft Report on Provision of Information to patients on medicinal products](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/commission-draft-report-on-provision-of-information-to-patients-on-medicinal-products/) - European Heart Network’s response to the European Commission’s draft report on current practice with regard to provision of information to patients on medicinal products - Brussels 19 April 2007
- [A Strategy for Europe on Nutrition, Overweight and Obesity related Health Issues](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/a-strategy-for-europe-on-nutrition-overweight-and-obesity-related-health-issues/) - EHN Comments to the Commission White Paper on A Strategy for Europe on Nutrition, Overweight and Obesity related health issues
- [Towards a New Culture on Urban Mobility](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/owards-a-new-culture-on-urban-mobility/) - European Heart Network response to the European Commission on the “Green Paper Towards a new culture for urban mobility”
- [Towards a possible European school fruit scheme](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/towards-a-possible-european-school-fruit-scheme/) - European Heart Network response to “Towards a possible European school fruit scheme - Consultation document for impact assessment”
- [Information to patients](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/information-to-patients/) - European Heart Network’s response to the European Commission’s Public Consultation on the legal proposal on information to patients
- [Impact Assessment guidelines](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/impact-assessment-guidelines/) - European Heart Network’s response to the European Commission’s consultation on draft Impact Assessment Guidelines
- [The EU Role in Global Health](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/the-eu-role-in-global-health/) - Joint response from the European Heart Network and the World Heart Federation on the Issues Paper on the Role of the EU in global health.
- [The Future of the Common Agricultural Policy](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/the-future-of-the-common-agricultural-policy/) - EHN response to the CAP reform.
- [The reform of the CAP towards 2020](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/the-reform-of-the-cap-towards-2020/) - European Heart Network (EHN) response to “The reform of the CAP towards 2020 - Impact Assessment”.
- [Active and Healthy Ageing](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/active-and-healthy-ageing/) - EHN's contribution to the Commission consultation on "Europe 2020 Flagship Initiative Innovation Union - Pilot European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing"
- [Revision of the Clinical Trials Directive - EHN Response](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/revision-of-the-clinical-trials-directive-ehn-response/) - EHN's response to the concept paper submitted for public consultation on the revision of the Clinical Trials Directive (2001/20/EC).
- [Review of the EU regime for the fruit and vegetables sector](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/review-of-the-eu-regime-for-the-fruit-and-vegetables-sector/) - EHN's response to the public consultation on policy options and their impact assessment within the framework of the review of the EU regime for the fruit and vegetables sector.
- [Towards a Post-2015 Development Framework](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/towards-a-post-2015-development-framework/) - EHN's contribution to the public consultation on the post-2015 framework of the European Commission.
- [WHO discussion paper on a Global Monitoring Framework and Global Targets for the Prevention and Control of NCD](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/who-discussion-paper-on-a-global-monitoring-framework-and-global-targets-for-the-prevention-and-control-of-ncd/) - In its response to the WHO discussion paper on a Global Monitoring Framework and Voluntary Global Targets for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases, EHN calls for these targets to be adopted globally. Although not all targets may be equally achievable in all countries in the world, EHN encourages all countries to demonstrate their commitment
- [EHN Response to EU Green Paper on mHealth](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-eu-green-paper-on-mhealth/) - EHN responded to the European Commission's Green Paper on mobile health, on 3 July 2014. EHN's response includes input from EHN members organisations, on the different questions raised by the consultation paper.
- [EHN response to the EU consultation on investment protection and ISDS](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-eu-consultation-on-investment-protection-and-isds/) - EHN response to the EU’s public consultation on modalities for investment protection and investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) in the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).
- [WHO Interim report of the Commission on Ending Childhood Obesity](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/who-interim-report-of-the-commission-on-ending-childhood-obesity/) - EHN response to the questions for consultation on the WHO Interim report of the Commission on Ending Childhood Obesity.
- [EU consultation on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/eu-consultation-on-the-audiovisual-media-services-directive/) - From June till September 2016, the European Commission launched an open consultation on the Audiovisual Media Services Directive in the context of the REFIT programme. The reponse from the European Heart Network focuses on the aspect of marketing (advertising) of unhealthy foods to children, whereby EHN demands a watershed on advertising of HFSS foods (high
- [European Commission inception impact assessment on the establishment of a multilateral court for investment dispute resolution - EHN response](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/european-commission-inception-impact-assessment-on-the-establishment-of-a-multilateral-court-for-investment-dispute-resolution-ehn-response/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the European Commission’s decision to assess the potential of establishing a multilateral court for investment dispute resolution.
- [Response to WHO Draft Implemention Plan for the Recommendations to end Child Obesity](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/response-to-who-draft-implemention-plan-for-the-recommendations-to-end-child-obesity/) - Three international organisations - the World Obesity Federation, the NCD Alliance and the World Cancer Research Fund - have prepared a joint response to the WHO Draft Implementation Plan for the Recommendations to End Childhood Obesity As European Heart Network, we have aligned ourselves with the submission of these three organisations. In summary, the comments made
- [Response to the European Commission inception impact assessment on the initiative to limit industrial trans fats intakes in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/response-to-the-european-commission-inception-impact-assessment-on-the-initiative-to-limit-industrial-trans-fats-intakes-in-the-eu/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) welcomes the opportunity to comment on the Inception Impact Assessment (IIA) on the initiative to limit industrial trans fats intakes in the EU. Please click here for EHN's paper on trans fatty acids and heart disease.
- [Response to the European Commission’s study to support the evaluation of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims made on food](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/response-to-the-european-commissions-study-to-support-the-evaluation-of-regulation-ec-no-1924-2006-on-nutrition-and-health-claims-made-on-food/) - The European Heart Network has responded to the European Commission’s study to support the evaluation of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 on nutrition and health claims made on food (the NHC Regulation).
- [Response to the Open public consultation on the initiative to limit industrial trans fats intakes in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/response-to-the-open-public-consultation-on-the-initiative-to-limit-industrial-trans-fats-intakes-in-the-eu/) - The European Heart Network has responded to the Open public consultation on the initiative to limit industrial trans fats intakes in the EU.
- [EHN's response to the public consultation on the MFF](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehns-response-to-the-public-consultation-on-the-mff/) - EHN's response to the public consultation on the Multi-annual Financial Framework.
- [EHN's contribution to the EU Roadmap for the evaluation of the EU agricultural promotion policy](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehns-contribution-to-the-eu-roadmap-for-the-evaluation-of-the-eu-agricultural-promotion-policy/) - EHN's contribution to the EU Roadmap for the evaluation of the EU agricultural promotion policy, submitted on 30 July 2018.
- [EHN's feedback to the EU consultation on the CAP Strategic Plans](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehns-feedback-to-the-eu-consultation-on-the-cap-strategic-plans/) - EHN's feedback to the EU consultation on the CAP Strategic Plans.
- [EHN response to the Commission consultation on Horizon Europe Co-design 2021-2024](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-commission-consultation-on-horizon-europe-co-design-2021-2024/) - EHN's response to the Commission consultation on Horizon Europe Co-design 2021-2024.
- [EHN response to the Commission Consultation on the roadmap ‘Sustainable Food - Farm to Fork Strategy’](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-commission-consultation-on-the-roadmap-sustainable-food-farm-to-fork-strategy/) - EHN's response to the Commission consultation on the roadmap ‘Sustainable Food - Farm to Fork Strategy’.
- [EHN response to the Commission Consultation on Horizon Europe First Strategic Plan 2021-2024](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-commission-consultation-on-horizon-europe-first-strategic-plan-2021-2024/) - On 18 september, EHN responded to the Commission's public consultation on Horizon Europe First Strategic Plan 2021-2024.
- [EHN response to the Commission Consultation on the Pharmaceutical Strategy](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-commission-consultation-on-the-pharmaceutical-strategy/) - EHN's response to the Commission's public consultation on the Pharmaceutical Strategy - Timely patient access to affordable medicines. Click here for more information on EU's Pharmaceutical strategy for Europe.
- [EHN response to the Commission consultation on the EU Strategy on the Rights of the child (2021 - 2024)](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-commission-consultation-on-the-eu-strategy-on-the-rights-of-the-child-2021-2024/) - On this page, you can find EHN's response to the Commission's public consultation on the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child (2021 - 2024). EHN's response focuses mainly on the aspect of marketing of unhealthy foods to children. In this response, EHN focuses on the fact that the EU should: adopt an evidence-led, child-rights
- [EHN response - cross border acquisition of excise goods by private individuals](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-cross-border-acquisition-of-excise-goods-by-private-individuals/) - On this page, you can fin EHN's response to the public consultation on Cross-border acquisitions of excise goods by private individuals – revision of Article 32 of Directive 2008/118/EC
- [EHN response - Structure and rates of excise duty applied to manufactured tobacco](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-structure-and-rates-of-excise-duty-applied-to-manufactured-tobacco/) - On this page, you can fin EHN's response to the public consultation on the Revision of Directive 2011/64/EU on the structure and rates of excise duty applied to manufactured tobacco.
- [EHN Response - Commission Consultation on EU farm and food products](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-commission-consultation-on-eu-farm-and-food-products/) - EHN responded to the Commission demand for feedback on EU farm and food products – review of policy on promotion inside and outside the EU EHN's response is based on its position paper Transforming European food policies for cardiovascular health.
- [EHN response to the Commission consultation on the roadmap for the Revision of the EU general pharmaceuticals legislation](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-commission-consultation-on-the-roadmap-for-the-revision-of-the-eu-general-pharmaceuticals-legislation/) - EHN's feedback to the Commission's combined roadmap / inception impact assessment on the evaluation and revision of the general pharmaceutical legislation. In the fourth quarter of 2021, the European Commission will open a public consultation. Background: Adopted on 25 November 2020, the Pharmaceutical Strategy for Europe aims at creating a future proof regulatory framework and
- [EHN response to the Commission Consultation on the Revision of the EU general pharmaceuticals legislation](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-response-to-the-commission-consultation-on-the-revision-of-the-eu-general-pharmaceuticals-legislation/) - EHN submitted its views on the European Commission's public consultation aimed at evaluating the existing general pharmaceutical legislation on medicines for human use to support its revision to ensure a future-proof and crisis-resistant medicines regulatory system. EHN's input calls for modernising the regulatory framework to foster patient-centered innovation for cardiovascular patients. It builds on previous EHN contributions and
- [Healthier Together Initiative](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/healthier-together-initiative/) - In December 2021, the European Commission opened a consultation on Healthier Together, the EU non-communicable diseases initative. EHN submitted its views on priorities for the strands of cardiovascular disease and health determinants. The EU non-communicable diseases (NCDs) initiative aims to help EU countries reduce the burden of NCDs and improve the citizens’ health and well-being by
- [Stakeholders' Targeted Consultation on EU4Health Work programme](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/stakeholders-targeted-consultation-on-eu4health-work-programme/) - Click here to download EHN's feedback to the Commission on strategic orientations and priorities for the 2023 EU4Health Work Programme. Click here to download the EU4Health 2023 Consultation Strategy. On 8 July 2022, from 10:00 to 17:00 CEST, the European Commission will discuss with stakeholders the outcomes of the consultation and reflect on upcoming priorities, strategic orientations and
- [EHN feedback to the Commission Consultation on Digital health data and services – the European health data space](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/ehn-feedback-to-the-commission-consultation-on-digital-health-data-and-services-the-european-health-data-space/) - Click here for EHN's feedback to the Commission's consultation on its European Health Data Space (EHDS) legislative proposal. EHN welcomes the EHDS proposal, one of the central building blocks for a strong European Health Union. We welcome the aim to strengthen patient rights for primary use of electronic health data and the proposed provisions for the needed
- [Excise duties on alcohol and alcoholic beverages](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/excise-duties-on-alcohol-and-alcoholic-beverages/) - EHN responded to the open consultation on excise duties on alcohol and alcoholic beverages.
- [School Fruit, Vegetable and Milk Scheme](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/school-fruit-vegetable-and-milk-scheme/) - EHN responded to the open consultation on the EU School Fruit, Vegetable and Milk Scheme.
- [Sustainable food system](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/sustainable-food-system/) - EHN responded to the EU survey on a Sustainable Food System.
- [European Cardiovascular Disease Statistics 2017](https://ehnheart.org/library/cvd-statistics/european-cardiovascular-disease-statistics-2017/) - According to a report issued this St. Valentine’s day by the European Heart Network (EHN), cardiovascular disease now costs the EU economy ‚¬210 billion a year. The report, the fifth edition of European Cardiovascular Disease Statistics, confirms that the fall in death rates from heart disease and stroke over recent decades is a sustainable trend. A
- [CVD Statistics](https://ehnheart.org/library/cvd-statistics/)
- [Annual Report 2014](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-201/) - Here is an overview of EHN's activities in 2014.
- [Annual Report 2015](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2015/) - Here is an overview of EHN's activities in 2015.
- [Annual Report 2016](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2016/) - Here is an overview of EHN's activities in 2016.
- [Annual Report 2017](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2017/) - Here is an overview of EHN's activities in 2017.
- [Annual Reports](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/)
- [Annual Report 2018](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2018/) - Here is an overview of EHN's activities in 2018.
- [Annual Report 2019](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2019-2/) - Here is an overview of EHN's activities in 2019.
- [Annual Report 2020](https://ehnheart.org/library/reports/annual-report-2020/) - Overview of EHN activities in 2020
- [Portuguese Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/portuguese-heart-foundation/) - Portuguese Heart Foundation The Portuguese Cardiology Foundation is a nationwide public utility organisation that aims to promote the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and health promotion. The FPC lives off the work of volunteers and the generosity of patrons, both individuals and companies, since the FPC has always chosen not to have commercial activities, living, in
- [Children and Young People - the Importance of Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/children-and-young-people-the-importance-of-physical-activity/) - Many of the serious diseases of adult life have their origins in a younger age. One of them is obesity, a symptom of an imbalance between caloric intake as food and calories expended through physical activity. This is a strong rationale for encouraging the development of healthy habits among young people. This EHN publication sets
- [Food, Nutrition and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in the European Region: Challenges for the New Millennium](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/food-nutrition-and-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-the-european-region-challenges-for-the-new-millennium/) - The European region, including Central and Eastern Europe, is facing a huge forthcoming burden from cardiovascular diseases. The demographic effect of an ageing population in the West and the deteriorating health and economic situation in the East mean that the European region will be confronted with a large increase in the number of people with
- [Consumer understanding of nutrition labelling](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/consumer-understanding-of-nutrition-labelling/) - In 2003 EHN undertook a systematic review of the research on consumer understanding of nutrition labelling. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine published and unpublished research into consumer understanding of nutrition labelling. It was undertaken in order to inform the European Heart Network’s (EHN) policy position on nutrition labelling and to provide a solid
- [Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in the European Union](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/physical-activity-and-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-the-european-union/) - Raising physical activity levels amongst the general population has been described as 'today's best buy in public health.' A more active lifestyle, even one with low intensity or short-burst types of activity, lowers CVD risks. EHN recommends, among other things, developing an EU policy that enhances physical activity, linked to policies in other relevant areas.
- [A healthy heart for European women](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/patients/a-healthy-heart-for-european-women/) - There is a widespread misconception that heart disease is mostly a male disease. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of death in both men and women in Europe, causing more deaths than all cancers combined. CVD accounts for 46% of all deaths in women, as compared to 39% of all deaths in men in
- [The marketing of unhealthy foods to children in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/the-marketing-of-unhealthy-foods-to-children-in-europe/) - A report of Phase 1 of the 'Children, obesity and associated chronic diseases' project.
- [Smoke Free Europe](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/smoke-free-europe/) - Smoke Free Europe makes economic sense. A report on the economic aspects of smoke free policies.
- [Fruit and Vegetable Policy in the European Union](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/fruit-and-vegetable-policy-in-the-european-union/) - Fruit and Vegetable Policy in the European Union: its effect on the burden of cardiovascular disease. There is a huge burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Europe. CVD is responsible for 1.9 million (42% of the total) deaths in the European Union per year (Petersen, Peto et al. 2005). The World Health Organization (WHO) World
- [Lifestyle and Risk of Heart Disease among Children and Adolescents](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/lifestyle-and-risk-of-heart-disease-among-children-and-adolescents/) - The increasing prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents has placed the lifestyle of these age groups on the political agenda. An unhealthy lifestyle during childhood and adolescence, in particular unhealthy eating habits and physical inactivity, increases not only the risk of developing obesity but also, along with smoking, the risk of developing chronic diseases
- [Responses to consultations](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses-to-consultations/)
- [Position Papers and Statements](https://ehnheart.org/library/responses/)
- [Women's Health at Heart](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/womens-health-at-heart/) - On 7 March 2006, the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology organised a joint conference on Women's Health at Heart. Conference Objective: The June 2004 Health Council conclusions and the June 2005 Luxembourg Declaration called upon Member States and the European Commission to promote cardiovascular health. This conference on Women's Health at
- [Lifting the Smokescreen](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/lifting-the-smokescreen/) - Lifting the Smokescreen; 10 reasons for a smoke free Europe. This report was commissioned in October 2004. At the time, Ireland had gone smoke free in March of that year, followed by Norway in June. On the other side of the world, New Zealand was due to follow suit in December 2004 and there were
- [EuroHeart](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/) - EuroHeart: European Heart Health Strategy Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the main cause of death and disability in Europe. WHO estimates that modest population-wide and simultaneous reductions in blood pressure, obesity, cholesterol and tobacco use would more than halve CVD incidence. To address the significant burden of CVD in Europe and to determine specific areas of
- [Awareness Raising on Women and CVD](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/patients/awareness-raising-on-women-and-cvd/) - Awareness Raising on Women and CVD. Overview of events and activities organised by heart foundations and cardiac societies in the field of CVD prevention for women. This report was prepared in the framework of Work Package 6 of the EuroHeart project. More information on the report and on the EuroHeart project can be found via this link.
- [Red Alert for Women's Hearts](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/patients/red-alert-for-womens-hearts/) - Red Alert for Women's Hearts; Women and cardiovascular research in Europe. Report prepared in the framework of Work Package 6 of the EuroHeart project. The report addresses the issue of women's representation in cardiovascular clinical research by collecting information on clinical trials and registries in Europe.
- [EHHI](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/ehhi/) - European Heart Health Initiative Public health became a European Union (EU) policy objective with the adoption of the Maastricht Treaty in 1993 and the Amsterdam Treaty in 1997. Its Article 152 made a high level of human health a constituent part of EU policy making, to be accomplished through cooperation between its Member States and
- [Completed projects](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/) - Completed Projects BigData@Heart Launched in March 2017, BigData@Heart is a five-year project that aims to develop a data-driven transnational research platform towards improving patient outcomes and reducing the societal burden of Atrial Fibrillation (AF), Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) and Heart Failure (HF) in Europe. Learn more about this project HeartMan Launched in 2016 and completed
- [Children & Obesity](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/) - Children & Obesity Data from several studies suggest that childhood obesity has increased steadily in Europe over the past two to three decades. In Europe, almost 20% of children are overweight or obese. The highest prevalence levels are observed in southern European countries with up to 36% of 9-year-olds in Italy being overweight or obese.
- [The marketing of unhealthy food to children in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/publications/the-marketing-of-unhealthy-food-to-children-in-europe/) - The marketing of unhealthy food to children in Europe Increasing obesity, especially in children, is being noted with mounting concern throughout Europe. The International Obesity Task Force estimates that approximately 20% of school-age children in Europe are carrying excess body fat, with an increased risk of developing chronic disease. Of these overweight children, a quarter
- [Publications](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/publications/) - Publications Evaluation reports Actions and guidelines on addressing child obesity Policy options to prevent child obesity Dinner debate on food marketing to children The marketing of unhealthy food to children in Europe
- [Dinner debate on food marketing to children](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/publications/dinner-debate-on-food-marketing-to-children/) - Dinner debate on food marketing to children All the founding members of the EU platform on diet, nutrition and health were invited to the dinner debate. The opening remarks were given by Robert Madelin, Director General, Consumer and Health protection of the EU. The outcome of this debate can be found here.
- [Actions and guidelines on addressing child obesity](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/publications/actions-and-guidelines-on-addressing-child-obesity/) - Actions and guidelines on addressing child obesity This document is essentially a plan for implementation of the priority policy options identified during the consultations carried out at European and national level between November 2005 and April 2006. It is divided into 15 sections comprising the plans agreed at European and national level. The document is
- [Policy options to prevent child obesity](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/publications/policy-options-to-prevent-child-obesity/) - Policy options to prevent child obesity During the last phase of the project on Children and obesity (from December 2005 to October 2006) a Europe-wide stakeholder consultation on policy options to prevent child obesity took place with a view to achieving consensus on a small number (five) of policy options to be achieved as priorities
- [Evaluation reports](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/publications/evaluation-reports/) - Evaluation reports On 1 March 2004, The European Heart Network started a 32 month project on "Children, Obesity and Associated Avoidable Chronic Diseases". The aim of the project is to contribute to reducing the obesity epidemic and associated avoidable chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, among children and young people. EHN also undertook to evaluate
- [Partners](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/children-obesity/partners/) - Partners
- [Partners](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/partners/) - Partners List
- [Conference Work Package 6](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/conference-work-package-6/) - Red Alert for Women's Heart conference On 5 November 2009 the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology organised a conference "Red Alert for Women's Hearts". At this conference, the report "Red Alert for Women's Hearts" was launched. This report can be downloaded via this link. The presentations from the conference "Red alert for Women's
- [Conference Work Package 5](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/conference-work-package-5/) - Combating Heart Disease and Stroke Combating Heart Disease and Stroke - Planning for a Healthier Europe On 10 September, the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology organised a conference 'Combating Heart Disease and Stroke - Planning for a healthier Europe' in the framework of Work Package 5 of the EuroHeart project.The conference
- [CVD prevention in Europe - the unfinished agenda (WP 5)](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/publications-wp-5-wp-6-2/publications-wp-5-wp-6/) - CVD prevention in Europe - the unfinished agenda (WP 5) Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death in the European Union, accounting for over 2 million deaths each year. Whilst the risk factors and determinants for cardiovascular diseases are well established, an incomplete picture exists of what individual countries have put in place
- [WP 5 Country summary reports](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/wp-5-country-summary-reports/) - WP 5 Country summary reports The documents below contain the following information: - Mortality trends from Cardiovascular Diseases. - A detailed description of one existing policy document on cardiovascular health promotion and / or cardiovascular disease prevention or coronary heart disease prevention. - An overview (in table format) of: Existing and planned legislation impacting on
- [Publications WP 5 + WP 6](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/publications-wp-5-wp-6-2/) - Publications WP 5 + WP 6 The EuroHeart project is a Commission cofunded project aiming to promote cardiovascular health and prevent cardiovascular disease. It has started in April 2007. All publications made available in the framework of this project will be published on this web page. Read more Read more
- [Red Alert on Women's Hearts (WP 6)](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheart/publications-wp-5-wp-6-2/red-alert-on-womens-hearts-wp-6/) - Red Alert on Women's Hearts (WP 6) Women and Cardiovascular Research in Europe. Click here to download the full report. Cardiovascular diseases represent the major cause of mortality in women and in men. The results of large randomised clinical trials allowed the introduction of preventive measures and effective treatments with a significant improvement of survival
- [EuroHeart II](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheartii-project-2/) - EuroHeart II Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart disease and stroke, is the main cause of death and a major cause of disability in Europe. It is estimated that 80% can be prevented. Small reductions in incidence and mortality lead to large health gains and reductions in direct and indirect health care costs. CVD costs the
- [EuroHeart II publications](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheartii-project-2/euroheart-ii-publications/) - EuroHeart II Publications Read more Read more Read more Read more Read more
- [EuroHeart II Events](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheartii-project-2/euroheart-ii-events/) - EuroHeart II events EuroHeart II National meeting in The Netherlands On 14 February 2014, the Dutch Heart Foundation organised a national meeting to disseminate the outcome of the publication "Diet, Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Europe". The programme can be consulted via this link. The report from the meeting can be consulted via this link.
- [Partners in the project](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/euroheartii-project-2/partners-in-the-project/) - Partners in the EuroHeart II project The EuroHeart II project has 30 partners in Europe. The main partner in the project is the European Heart Network - BelgiumThe list of all partners can be found below.The EuroHeart II project ran from 1 March 2011 till 28 February 2014. It received co-funding from the European Union in the
- [BigData@Heart](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/bigdataheart/) - BigData@Heart Launched in March 2017 and finalized in February 2023, BigData@Heart was a six-year project of the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI), an EU public-private consortium consisting of patient networks, learned societies, SMEs, pharmaceutical companies, and academia. BigData@Heart’s ultimate goal was to develop a Big Data-driven translational research platform of unparalleled scale and phenotypic resolution to deliver clinically relevant disease
- [TobTaxy](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/tobtaxy/) - TobTaxY TobTaxY (making Tobacco Tax TrendY) is a European Commission-funded capacity-building project with the aim of training the public health and tobacco control community on tobacco taxation and smuggling issues. The Smokefree partnership is the main partner in the project and EHN is one of the partners involved in the project, responsible for the organisation
- [EConDA project](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/econda-project/) - EConDA The aim of the EConDA project (Economics of Chronic Diseases) is to aid member states to develop, select and implement more cost effective policies to improve chronic disease prevention and impact upon populations with the highest rates of premature deaths from chronic diseases and reduce health inequalities. The specific objectives of the EConDA project,
- [HeartMan](https://ehnheart.org/activities/projects/past-projects/heartman/) - HeartMan Launched in 2016 and completed in April 2019, the HeartMan project's main goal was to help patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) better manage their disease. The project developed a personal health system consisting of a mobile application, sensing wristband, and a backend in the cloud where patient data is managed in a secure
- [STRESS and cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/stress-and-cardiovascular-disease/) - For several reasons, the concept of stress has played a much more important role in ideas about cardiovascular disease (CVD) among laymen than among experts. On a theoretical level, stress is more difficult for health care practitioners to define and assess than widely accepted coronary risk factors such as physical activity, tobacco smoking, serum cholesterol
- [Review of 'Front of Pack' Nutrition Schemes](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/review-of-front-of-pack-nutrition-schemes/) - Review of current 'front of pack' nutrition schemes. The purpose of this review was to gain insights into the extent to which ‘front of pack’ schemes are used, the way in which such schemes might operate; presentational issues (i.e. the format e.g. traffic lights, descriptive words, symbols); the nutritional criteria used; and whether there has been any
- [Summary of original research from December 2006 - June 2008 on consumer preferences and use of Front of Pack nutrition schemes](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/summary-of-original-research-from-december-2006-june-2008-on-consumer-preferences-and-use-of-front-of-pack-nutrition-schemes/) - In February 2007 the European Heart Network published a review of ‘Front of Pack’ nutrition schemes, which covered information up to and including November 2006. Since then the European Commission has adopted a proposal for a Regulation on the provision of food information to consumers (COM(2008) 40 final)) to combine Directive 2000/13/EC on labelling, presentation
- [Individual scientific reviews from the report on Diet, PA and CVD Prevention in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/individual-scientific-reviews-from-the-report-on-diet-pa-and-cvd-prevention-in-europe/) - Please find here the individual scientific reviews from the report on Diet, Physical Activity and CVD Prevention. Fibre Fats Antioxidants Alcohol Fruit and Vegetables Physical Activity Folate Sugars Salt Obesity and overweight
- [Diet, Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/diet-physical-activity-and-cardiovascular-disease-prevention/) - In November 2011 the European Heart Network published its new report on Diet, Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Europe. This new report reviews the latest evidence on the relationship between cardiovascular health and what we eat or how active we are. It also takes a close look at current European eating and physical
- [EHN Paper on Cardiac & Stroke Rehabilitation](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/patients/ehn-paper-on-cardiac-stroke-rehabilitation/) - On the 25th of January, the European Heart Network published its paper on cardiac and stroke rehabilitation programmes. This paper aims at providing information to stakeholders about rehabilitation programmes for patients that have suffered a cardiac event or a stroke.
- [EHN research on Nutrient Profile Model](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/ehn-research-on-nutrient-profile-model/) - On 28 March, the European Heart Network published a report on "Reducing children's exposure to marketing of foods and drinks that are high in fat, salt or sugar. This report summarises recent developments in relation to the marketing of unhealthy foods to children, which form the background to a commitment that the European Heart Network
- [Trans fatty acids and heart disease](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/trans-fatty-acids-and-heart-disease/) - EHN has updated its paper on trans fatty acids and heart disease, to inform the debate on how best to eliminate industrially produced TFAs from foodstuffs marketed in the European Union.
- [2016 European Guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention in clinical practice](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/2016-european-guidelines-on-cardiovascular-disease-prevention-in-clinical-practice/) - The 2016 Joint European Guidelines on cardiovascular disease prevention in clinical practice is the sixth edition. They represent an evidence-based consensus of the 10 professional societies which were involved in developing them. The guidelines have been developed to support healthcare professionals communication with individuals about their cardiovascular (CV) risk and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle
- [Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/air-pollution-and-cardiovascular-diseases/) - In July 2017 EHN published a paper on Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Diseases. The aim of this paper is to provide information about the impact of air pollution on cardiovascular health; when we refer to air pollution, this is outdoor air pollution unless otherwise indicated. The paper presents recommendations to policy makers for action to reduce
- [Expert reviews from Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/expert-reviews-from-transforming-european-food-and-drink-policies-for-cardiovascular-health/) - For the EHN paper 'Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health' expert reviews were performed on the following topics: dietary sugar, fats, salt, agriculture and food supply, food and environment, food promotion and trade and food. Please find here the links to these expert reviews: Dietary sugar Salt Fats Agriculture and food supply
- [Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/transforming-european-food-and-drink-policies-for-cardiovascular-health/) - Despite considerable progress in tackling cardiovascular disease (CVD), it remains the leading cause of death and a major cause of illness and disability for men and women in Europe. Dietary risks are responsible for around half of the death and disability caused by CVD and may cost the economy of the European Union economy €102
- [Heart Failure and Cardiovascular Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/patients/heart-failure-and-cardiovascular-diseases/) - Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in Europe as well as in the European Union (EU), where it is responsible for 3.9 and 1.8 million deaths respectively every year. CVD mortality is falling in most European countries. However, declining death rates do not go hand in hand with declining morbidity. The
- [Electronic Cigarettes and Cardiovascular Disease](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/electronic-cigarettes-and-cardiovascular-disease/) - The role and impact of electronic cigarettes continues to provoke a major public health debate in Europe and beyond. This updated EHN paper focuses on the effects of e-cigarette use on the cardiovascular system. It also presents information on trends in use of e-cigarettes, as well as marketing and regulation. Furthermore, it discusses the distinction
- [Physical Activity Policies for Cardiovascular Health](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/physical-activity-policies-for-cardiovascular-health/) - Physical activity is an effective way to protect your heart. It is never too late to start and any exercise is better than none – though more is better. These are the main conclusions from the newest EHN report on Physical Activity Policies for Cardiovascular Health. Physical inactivity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by
- [What is the value of digital tools for cardiovascular patients?](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/research/what-is-the-value-of-digital-tools-for-cardiovascular-patients/) - Digital innovation in health can improve diagnosis, cardiovascular patients’ care, treatment and management. This research paper funded by the European Heart Network, offers an overview of existing evidence on effectiveness of digital tools for primary and secondary prevention, heart failure management, home-hospitalisation for heart failure patients, diagnosis and management of cardiac arrythmias and remote monitoring
- [EHN paper on CVD Risk Assessment Programmes](https://ehnheart.org/activities/publications/prevention/new-ehn-paper-on-cvd-risk-assessment-programmes/) - To reduce the onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD), it is crucial to identify those persons at high risk of developing CVD, and to provide them with appropriate advice and preventive treatment. The EHN revised paper ‘Early detection of cardiovascular disease’ focuses on strategies for prevention at an individual level and early identification of so-called high-risk individuals; that is,
- [About CVD](https://ehnheart.org/about-cvd/)
- [Irish Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/irish-heart-foundation/) - Irish Heart Foundation The Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) is the national charity fighting stroke and heart disease; it was founded in 1966 and is based in Dublin. It is funded by up to 90 per cent by public and corporate donations. It runs support groups for patients who have had heart problems or strokes and
- [Turkish Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/turkish-heart-foundation/) - Turkish Heart Foundation Turkish Heart Foundation, which was established in 1975; It is a member of the European Heart Association and the World Heart Federation. The Turkish Heart Foundation, which carries out activities to raise awareness and preventive medicine in cardiovascular health and to inform and raise awareness of our people, has been carrying out
- [Swiss Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/swiss-heart-foundation/) - Swiss Heart Foundation The Swiss Heart Foundation was established in 1967 by a group of proactive doctors. It is the only non-profit organization in the cardiovascular field in Switzerland that is active in promoting research as well as education and prevention. It is accredited by the Federal Supervisory Board for Foundations which is part of
- [Swedish Heart Lung Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/swedish-heart-lung-foundation/) - Swedish Heart Lung Foundation The fund was established in 1904 during the fight against tuberculosis (TB). The Swedish Heart Lung Foundation raises funds and distributes money to heart, lung and vascular research, and provides information about heart-lung disease. The fund supports numerous fields of research connected to myocardial infarction (heart attack), heart failure, vascular spasms,
- [Spanish Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/spanish-heart-foundation/) - Spanish Heart Foundation The Spanish Heart Foundation (FEC) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to reduce the adverse impact of cardiovascular diseases and promote better cardiovascular health in the Spanish population. It is promoted by the Spanish Society of Cardiology in 1967 which, under the name of Fundación Hispana de Cardiología, began to carry
- [Lithuanian Heart Association](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/lithuanian-heart-association/) - Lithuanian Heart Association The Lithuanian Heart Association (LHA) is a voluntary and independent non-governmental organisation uniting medical professionals and patients interested in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. LHA was established in 1994 by initiative of two well-known professors in cardiology – prof. Aleksandras Laucevicius and prof. Rimgaudas Nemickas. LHA has been taking care
- [Italian Society for Cardiovascular Prevention (SIPREC)](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/italian-society-for-cardiovascular-prevention-siprec/) - Italian Society for Cardiovascular Prevention (SIPREC) SIPREC is the only Italian scientific society to be entirely devoted to the promotion of cardiovascular prevention. It provides a scientific platform for doctors, institutions, media and citizens, and its members provide a multidisciplinary panel of experts in cardiovascular health. Their mission is to spread the culture of cardiovascular
- [Hellenic Heart Foundation](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/hellenic-heart-foundation/) - Hellenic Heart Foundation The Hellenic Heart Foundation was founded in 1991 and is a non-profit institution, a legal entity under private law. Its inauguration took place in September 1992 under the auspices of the then President of the Republic Konstantinos Karamanlis. Since its establishment, it has had the support of a large number of university professors of medical
- [Finnish Heart Association](https://ehnheart.org/ehn-members/finish-heart-association/) - Finnish Heart Association The Finnish Heart Association is Europe’s first and the world’s second oldest heart organization. They work to help prevent as many cases of cardiovascular diseases and related premature deaths as possible and so that no-one with the disease or their loved ones is left alone. They operate locally, regionally and nationally. They offer
- [Tobacco Products Directive : Council Agrees](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/tobacco-products-directive-council-agrees/) - Today, 21 June 2013, the Health Council of Ministers came to an agreement on a general approach on the Tobacco Products Directive. Please click here for the EHN press release.
- [Death rates from heart disease decline](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/death-rates-from-heart-disease-decline/) - Death rates from heart disease in the European Union have more than halved in many countries since the early 1980s, according to new research published online today (26 June 2013) in the European Heart Journal. In the majority of countries, there have been ongoing steady reductions in heart disease death rates in both sexes and
- [EU Presidencies’ statement shows firm leadership and commitment on tobacco](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/eu-presidencies-statement-shows-firm-leadership-and-commitment-on-tobacco/) - Ireland and Lithuania, the outgoing and incoming Presidencies of the Council of the European Union respectively, reaffirmed last week their strong support to the revised EU Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). In their statement, the Presidencies stress the window of opportunity that the current update of the TPD presents to prevent young Europeans from taking up
- [ENVI shows that it is truly a health committee](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/envi-shows-that-it-is-truly-a-health-committee/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) congratulates the European Parliament’s Environment Committee and its rapporteur, Linda McAvan, for the vote today on the Tobacco Products Directive. Please click here for the EHN press release on this subject.
- [Action on Reducing the Global Burden of CVD](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/action-on-reducing-the-global-burden-of-cvd/) - Leaders in cardiovascular disease prevention and control publish a follow up paper applauding action and calling for the CVD community to continue its leadership to reduce premature mortality by 25 per cent by 2025. Click here for press release.
- [World Heart Day 2013: A heart-healthy environment is an environment free of smoke](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/world-heart-day-2013-a-heart-healthy-environment-is-an-environment-free-of-smoke/) - EHN's press release on the occasion of World Heart Day 2013.
- [Mixed Victory in the European Parliament Vote on TPD](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/mixed-victory-in-the-european-parliament-vote-on-tpd/) - A joint statement from the European public health and tobacco control community, on the plenary vote on the Tobacco Products Directive in the European Parliament, Strasbourg.
- [A New Tobacco Products Directive for the EU](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/a-new-tobacco-products-directive-for-the-eu/) - In the European Parliament plenary vote yesterday, 514 members voted in favour of a new Tobacco Products Directive. Read about this landmark decision in the EHN press release here.
- [EU Summit on Chronic Diseases](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/eu-summit-on-chronic-diseases/) - The European Commission organised the first EU Summit on Chronic Diseases in Brussels this week. Please find here the ECDA press release on this event.
- [Heart Failure Awareness Day](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/heart-failure-awareness-day/) - EHN Press Release on the occasion of European Heart Failure Awareness Day 2014.
- [Call for action on industrially produced TFAs](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/call-for-action-on-industrially-produced-tfas/) - Today the MEP Heart Group meets in the European Parliament to debate the impact of industrially produced trans fatty acids on the health of citizens in the European Union. Please click here for the press release.
- [EHN & EPHA Press Release on EP TTIP Report](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/ehn-epha-press-release-on-ep-ttip-report/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) and the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA) published a joint press release following the adoption by the European Parliament of its initiative report on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnerships (TTIP). The two NGOs welcome the report as it sends a clear signal that the controversial Investor-to-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS)
- [Results of the EConDA project](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/results-of-the-econda-project/) - Please read here the press release published on the occasion of the closing conference of the EConDA (Economics of Chronic Diseases) project, held today in Brussels.
- [Clean Air Petition: World Heart Day 2015](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/clean-air-petition-world-heart-day-2015/) - On the occasion of World Heart Day 2015, Frans van de Werf (far left in photo) Chair of the European Affairs Committee of the European Society of Cardiology; Mairead McGuinness MEP (second left), co-chair of the MEP Heart Group; and Simon Gillespie (second right), President of the European Heart Network, met with Commissioner Andriukaitis to
- [New Commission proposal on ICS](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/new-commission-proposal-on-ics/) - The European Commission has today published its revised proposal for an Investment Court System (ICS) which aims to replace the investor-to-state dispute settlement (ISDS) mechanism in all ongoing and future EU investment negotiations. Please click here for a press release from the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA), the European Association for the Study of the Liver
- [NGO concerns on regulatory cooperation in TTIP](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/ngo-concerns-on-regulatory-cooperation-in-ttip/) - Please click here to read the joint press release issued today by EPHA, EASL and EHN, expressing reservations about regulatory cooperation and good regulatory practices in TTIP. For further information on click on the links below: Regulatory Cooperation and Good Regulatory Practices in TTIP Shared concerns on the revised TTIP regulatory cooperation proposal Detailed comments to the
- [SFP Press Release - World No Tobacco Day](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/sfp-press-release-world-no-tobacco-day/) - Please click here to read the Smoke Free Partnership press release on the 2014 Tobacco Products Directive and Plain Packaging Process in the EU, on the occasion of World No Tobacco Day.
- [The Mexico Declaration for Circulatory Health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/the-mexico-declaration-for-circulatory-health/) - The Mexico Declaration for Circulatory Health, the first ever global declaration on heart health, was made on 5 June 2016 at the WHF World Congress of Cardiology & Cardiovascular Health 2016. The declaration is recognition that, unless health professionals, governments, businesses and the public find a common voice that paves the way for much-needed action
- [European Parliament adopts resolution on industrial trans fatty acids](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-parliament-adopts-resolution-on-industrial-trans-fatty-acids/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) congratulates the European Parliament for adopting a Resolution on trans fatty acids (TFAs). EHN supports the European Parliament’s call on the European Commission to establish an EU legal limit on industrial TFAs and that as soon as possible. TFAs are a major contributor to cardiovascular diseases, which is the leading
- ["AVMSD: What about our Kids?" Protecting children from unhealthy food and drink marketing](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/avmsd-what-about-our-kids-protecting-children-from-unhealthy-food-and-drink-marketing/) - On 1 December the event “AVMSD: What about our Kids?” takes place in the European Parliament, hosted by MEP Daciana Octavia Sá¢rbu and organised by a coalition of ten organisations. The event gathers experts from a wide range of backgrounds to discuss the effects of marketing on children’s behaviours, tools to reduce child exposure to commercial
- ["The European Response to Chronic Diseases - the Role of Civil Society"](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/the-european-response-to-chronic-diseases-the-role-of-civil-society/) - In the past decade, international leaders and health advocates have consistently fought to put non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) on the global agenda, not only the health agenda, but on top of the priorities that must be tackled with a Whole-of-Society, “health in all policies” approach. It resulted in a UN resolution, a WHO action plan
- [Europe's unequal burden of CVD - the actual facts](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/europes-unequal-burden-of-cvd-the-actual-facts/) - The publication of the new report on European Cardiovascular Disease Statistics 2017 will be the basis of a debate today in the European Parliament in Brussels. The debate is organised by the Members of the European Parliament MEP Heart Group, with the support of the European Society of Cardiology and of the European Heart Network. Cardiovascular disease
- [European Cardiovascular Disease Statistics 5th edition published](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-cardiovascular-disease-statistics-5th-edition-published/) - According to a report issued this St. Valentine’s day by the European Heart Network (EHN), cardiovascular disease now costs the EU economy ‚¬210 billion a year. The report, the fifth edition of European Cardiovascular Disease Statistics, confirms that the fall in death rates from heart disease and stroke over recent decades is a sustainable trend. A
- [Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/transforming-european-food-and-drink-policies-for-cardiovascular-health/) - On World Heart Day 2017, the European Heart Network published its paper on Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health. Here is the link to the press release.
- [Smart CAP is triple win for economy, environment and health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/smart-cap-is-triple-win-for-economy-environment-and-health/) - EHN, EPHA and Freshfel Europe ask Commissioner Hogan for concrete mechanisms to support the future CAP’s objective of healthy sustainable diets to achieve a triple win for economy, environment and health. The European Heart Network (EHN), the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA) and Freshfel Europe have today written to European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural
- [World No Tobacco Day 2018](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/world-no-tobacco-day-2018/) - Tobacco breaks hearts: World No Tobacco Day event at the European Parliament reminds of tobacco’s preventable toll, calls for action to prevent and reduce it Click here for a link to the press release.
- [Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence](https://ehnheart.org/activities/patients/digital-health-and-artificial-intelligence/) - Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence Digital innovation in health, such as telemedicine and artificial intelligence (AI) tools, can improve patients' experience along the entire care pathway including the diagnosis, treatment and management of cardiovascular conditions. EHN advocates for ambitious policies that ensure equal access to innovation and public investment in programmes aimed at improving health
- [Physical Activity](https://ehnheart.org/activities/prevention/physical-activity/) - Physical Activity Low physical activity is estimated to be responsible for 173 822 deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the European Region every year (4% of all CVD deaths). It causes more deaths among the female population (111 283) than among the male population (62 539). Participation in regular physical activity is an effective way
- [Air Pollution](https://ehnheart.org/activities/prevention/air-pollution/) - Air pollution Air pollution is associated with around 340 934 deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD) per year in the European Region (8% of all CVD deaths ), accounting for an estimated 173 294 male deaths and 167 640 female deaths. Exposure to air pollution affects everybody, but it is an amplifying factor for health inequalities,
- [Early Detection](https://ehnheart.org/activities/prevention/early-detection/) - Early Detection To reduce the onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD), it is crucial to identify those persons at high risk of developing CVD and to provide them with appropriate advice and preventive treatment. Policymakers should focus on implementing strategies for prevention at an individual level and early identification of so-called high-risk individuals; that is, people
- [Medical Devices](https://ehnheart.org/activities/patients/medical-devices/) - Medical Devices At the European Heart Network (EHN), we recognise the critical role of medical devices in ensuring optimal care for cardiovascular patients from diagnosis to treatment and monitoring. EHN is actively engaged in policy files addressing unmet patient needs due to medical device shortages in Europe and the implementation of EU regulations in this
- [Tobacco control](https://ehnheart.org/activities/prevention/tobacco-control/) - Tobacco control Tobacco use is associated with 16% of all CVD deaths in the European Region, which translates to an estimated 674 693 CVD deaths every year (about 480 618 male and 194 075 female deaths). Recent studies also increasingly highlight the harmful risks of electronic cigarette use to the cardiovascular system. Heated tobacco products
- [ENVI Workshop on Cardiovascular Diseases and Lifestyle](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/envi-workshop-on-cardiovascular-diseases-and-lifestyle/) - Press Note for the ENVI Workshop on “Cardiovascular Diseases and Lifestyle”, Tuesday 09 October 2018, 9:00 to 11:00, Altiero Spinelli building, room ASP3G2, European Parliament Brussels
- [HeartMan: Self-management for Heart Failure](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/heartman-self-management-for-heart-failure/) - The HeartMan project, funded by EU's Horizon 2020 programme, presents the technology developed and findings from the clinical trial in Belgium in a series of interactive sessions at its final conference on Wednesday 24 April 2019 in Brussels. Click here to download the programme. Click here for a link to the press release.
- [Open letter to Mrs Kyriakides, Commissioner-Designate for Health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/open-letter-to-mrs-kyriakides-commissioner-designate-for-health/) - Cardiovascular patients and healthcare professionals call on Commissioner-designate for health to develop an action plan to beat EU’s leading cause of death. Here is the open letter that EHN and ESC sent to Commissioner-designate Stella Kyriakides on the occasion of World Heart Day (29 September).
- [E-cigarettes - a cardiovascular health concern](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/e-cigarettes-a-cardiovascular-health-concern/) - The role and impact of electronic cigarettes continues to provoke a major public health debate in Europe and beyond. EHN's newest paper on e-cigarettes has a focus on the effects of e-cigarette use on the cardiovascular system. It also presents information on trends in the use of e-cigarettes, as well as marketing and regulation, and it
- [Physical Activity: an effective way to protect your heart](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/physical-activity-an-effective-way-to-protect-your-heart/) - It is never too late to start with physical activity, and any exercise is better than none - though more is better. These are the main conclusions from the newest EHN report on Physical Activity Policies for Cardiovascular Health. Physical inactivity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by more than 20%. Yet, in Europe, it
- [Cardiovascular patients’ fears in a time of Coronavirus](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/cardiovascular-patients-fears-in-a-time-of-coronavirus/) - Patients with cardiovascular disease worry greatly about the effects of the Coronavirus on their health. With the outbreak of the Coronavirus, cardiovascular patients feel uncertain as to how they should relate to the general recommendations issued by governments or public health institutions. They need targeted advice, relevant to their particular diagnosis. Click here for more information.
- [COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease – complexities that beckon answers](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/covid-19-and-cardiovascular-disease-complexities-that-beckon-answers/) - As more data on COVID-19 patients become available, the disease appears to be particularly devastating for cardiovascular patients. It goes well beyond the lungs, damaging the heart, brain and other organs. Furthermore, new observations regarding blood clotting also raise questions. Click here for more information.
- [The cardiovascular legacy of COVID-19](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/the-cardiovascular-legacy-of-covid-19/) - The time for the EU to act is NOW! Brussels, 25 June 2020. Today, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Heart Network (EHN) launch “Fighting cardiovascular disease – a blueprint for EU action”, in a virtual meeting with the European Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides and Members of the European Parliament. The call
- [New CEO for EHN](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/new-ceo-for-ehn/) - The European Heart Network (EHN) is delighted to announce that Birgit Beger will take over as Chief Executive Officer of the EHN on 1 August 2020. Birgit is a well-respected, senior executive with more than 20 years of EU public policy experience. Previously, Birgit acted as Secretary-General of the Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME)
- [Call to MEPs not to forget heart and stroke patients in EU4Health Programme](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/call-to-meps-not-to-forget-heart-and-stroke-patients-in-eu4health-programme/) - On 6 July, the ENVI committee will debate EU4Health. It is essential that the Programme responds to the needs of all people in the EU, including 60 million people living with CVD. In the aftermath of Covid-19, the EU is likely to be confronted with an increase in the burden of cardiovascular disease. During the
- [Nutri-Score could become EU’s front-of-pack nutrition labelling scheme if its algorithm is revised](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/nutri-score-could-become-eus-front-of-pack-nutrition-labelling-scheme-if-its-algorithm-is-revised/) - Having reviewed the latest science, the European Heart Network (EHN) has adopted its position on front of pack nutrition labelling. In its paper, EHN recommends that the EU consider adopting Nutri-Score as its harmonised, mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labelling scheme if – and only if – its algorithm is revised. The new algorithm must take into account
- [EU Action on CVD needed now](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/eu-action-on-cvd-needed-now/) - The burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is greater than that of any other disease and it is the leading cause of death in Europe and in the world. To address this burden, the European Heart Network and the European Society of Cardiology have developed a Blueprint for EU action.
- [EHN Annual Report 2018](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-annual-report-2018/) - Please click here for the EHN Annual Report 2018.
- [Annual Report 2019](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/annual-report-2019/) - Here is an overview of EHN's activities in 2019. Click here to read more
- [What is the value of digital tools for cardiovascular patients?](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/what-is-the-value-of-digital-tools-for-cardiovascular-patients/) - Digital technologies can transform cardiovascular diagnosis and patient care Funded by the European Heart Network, this research review offers an overview of existing evidence on effectiveness of digital tools for: primary prevention of cardiovascular disease secondary prevention heart failure management home-hospitalisation for heart failure patients diagnosis and management of cardiac arrythmias remote monitoring of cardiac implantable
- [New EHN paper on CVD Risk Assessment Programmes](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/new-ehn-paper-on-cvd-risk-assessment-programmes/) - To reduce the onset of cardiovascular disease, it is crucial to identify those persons at high risk of developing CVD, and to provide them with appropriate advice and preventive treatment. The EHN revised paper ‘Early detection of cardiovascular disease’ focuses on strategies for prevention at an individual level and early identification of so-called high-risk individuals; that is, people
- [Efficient strategies needed to detect high risk individuals for cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/efficient-strategies-needed-to-detect-high-risk-individuals-for-cardiovascular-disease/) - Having reviewed latest evidence from scientific studies and high-quality, randomised controlled trials, the European Heart Network (EHN) published its revised paper on 'Early detection of cardiovascular disease'. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the main cause of death in Europe and in the world. In the EU alone, more than 1.8 million people die every year as a
- [Digital technologies can transform cardiovascular diagnosis and patient care](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/digital-technologies-can-transform-cardiovascular-diagnosis-and-patient-care/) - More than 60 million people live with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the EU, and close to 13 million new cases of CVD are diagnosed every year. Digital innovation in health can improve diagnosis, cardiovascular patients’ care, treatment and management, and lead to better human and economic outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic has already demonstrated how accessible
- [EU Trans fat free as of 1 April 2021](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/eu-trans-fat-free-as-of-1-april-2021/) - As of today, 1 April 2021, foods containing more than 2g/100g of industrially produced trans fatty acids are no longer allowed on the EU market. The removal of these trans fatty acids (TFAs) from the food supply is one of the most straightforward public health interventions in the EU. Using trans fats poses a significant
- [EHN publishes its Annual Report 2021](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-publishes-its-annual-report-2021/) - During the second challenging year of the pandemic, EHN together with its members, took the initiative to bring cardiovascular health higher on the European policy agenda. EHN is therefore pleased to present its Annual Report 2021. The Covid-19 pandemic caused a lot of disruption across Europe, however it also put the spotlight on health and sparked
- [European Heart Network appoints BHF CEO as President](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/european-heart-network-appoints-bhf-ceo-as-president/) - Dr Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer of the British Heart Foundation, has been announced as President of the European Heart Network. Charmaine has been the interim President for the past six months and will assume her leadership role effective immediately, following her election by members at the EHN conference in Madrid last week. She takes
- [World Heart Day 2022](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/world-heart-day-2022/) - On World Heart Day, the European Heart Network (EHN) calls on policy makers to show strong political will to improve cardiovascular health for all. On World Heart Day, EHN calls for urgent coordinated action by policy makers to promote cardiovascular health for all Europeans. Policies are needed to create healthier living environments for people to live
- [Press Releases](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/press-releases/)
- [Consultation on the European Cardiovascular Strategic Research Agenda](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/consultation-on-the-european-cardiovascular-strategic-research-agenda/) - In order to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease we need more knowledge and innovation. A Strategic Research Agenda on cardiovascular diseases has identified a list of 15 research domains for cardiovascular research. To prioritise these, a survey is now open to everyone in the cardiovascular field: health care professionals, patients and citizens, researchers, policy
- [Joint statement regarding EU platform for action on diet, physical activity and health](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/joint-statement-regarding-eu-platform-for-action-on-diet-physical-activity-and-health/) - EHN and six other organisations have taken the decision to leave the EU platform for action on diet, physical activity and health. By decreasing the resources allocated to the Platform, we believe the EC acknowledges the limited impact it, and the voluntary approach it embodies, can have. Click here to read the joint statement.
- [Joint letter: Farm to Fork needs an effective consumption strategy](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/joint-letter-farm-to-fork-needs-an-effective-consumption-strategy/) - The European Heart Network (EHN), European Public Health Alliance (EPHA) and European Public Health Association (EUPHA), have today sent a joint letter to European Commission Vice-President Frans Timmermans, strongly welcoming the commitment by the European Commission to launch a “Farm to Fork” strategy, addressing the key role of food consumption in transitioning the food system
- [Help us prevent cardiovascular disease in the EU](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/help-us-prevent-cardiovascular-disease-in-the-eu/) - The world faces vast challenges. One challenge is the high and rising prevalence of chronic (non-communicable) diseases. Of these, cardiovascular disease is by far the biggest challenge, posing the greatest burden on people and societies. If you are a policy maker working at the European Commission, European Parliament or in Permanent Representations of EU Member
- [Director of the European Heart Network (EHN), Susanne Løgstrup, retires](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/director-of-the-european-heart-network-ehn-susanne-logstrup-retires/) - Susanne Løgstrup is retiring, after 25 successful years leading the European Heart Network (EHN). EHN is the Brussels-based alliance of foundations and associations dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. Floris Italianer, CEO Dutch Heart Foundation and President of EHN said: "EHN’s vision is that every European has a right to a life free from
- [European Heart Network Statement on Front of Pack Nutrition Labelling](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/european-heart-network-statement/) - In September 2017 the European Heart Network (EHN) published Transforming European food and drink policies for cardiovascular health in which EHN recommended for the EU to adopt mandatory EU-wide simplified front-of-pack nutritional labelling. EHN specifically recommended a scheme which uses traffic light colours to indicate high, medium and low levels of fat, saturated fat, salt and (preferably
- [This Valentines Day, MEP Heart Group co-chairs call on all MEPs to join the MEP Heart Group.](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/this-valentines-day-mep-heart-group-co-chairs-call-on-all-meps/) - Cardiovascular disease remains the first cause of death in the EU, claiming the lives of 1.8 million people every year. On Valentine's Day, the co-chairs of the MEP Heart Group, Brando Benifei and Maria Carvalho, are calling on their colleagues to join the MEP Heart Group and push for ambitious EU action for CVD. Please click
- [COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease – complexities that beckon answers](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/covid-19-and-cardiovascular-disease-complexities-that-beckon-answers/) - As more data on COVID-19 patients become available, the disease appears to be particularly devastating for cardiovascular patients. It goes well beyond the lungs, damaging the heart, brain and other organs. Furthermore, new observations regarding blood clotting also raise questions. Click here for more information.
- [Statement on the EC proposal on Farm to Fork Strategy](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/statement-on-the-ec-proposal-on-farm-to-fork-strategy/) - EHN welcomes the Communication on a Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system. Read the full EHN statement via this link.
- [EU4Health – an opportunity to tackle cardiovascular disease](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/eu4health-an-opportunity-to-tackle-cardiovascular-disease/) - EHN welcomes the new EU4Health programme which acknowledges that health promotion, disease prevention, treatment and care, are the cornerstone for well-functioning societies and economies. Read EHN's statement via this link.
- [Use Heart to beat the increasing burden of cardiovascular disease in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/use-heart-to-beat-the-increasing-burden-of-cardiovascular-disease-in-europe/) - On World Heart Day, EHN stresses the urgent need to adress the increasing burden of CVD, especially in this time of Covid-19 crisis. Click here for EHN's statement on this topic.
- [EHN Board members join the new WHF Board 2023-24](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/ehn-publications/ehn-board-members-join-the-new-whf-board-2023-24/) - We are pleased to announce that the European Heart Network is expanding its presence within the World Heart Federation’s (WHF) structure. For a number of years Kristina Sparreljung (EHN Treasurer) has supported the WHF Board as a member, lately also in the role of WHF treasurer. She will now be newly joined by Charmaine Griffiths
- [Patients survey: Living with an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/patients-survey-living-with-an-implantable-cardioverter-defibrillator/) - Do you live with an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)? Share your experience in this survey and help physicians understand your needs to tailor future information and counselling. The European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) conducts a survey targeting people living with an Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) to assess their quality of life and knowledge of ICD. The survey is
- [World Obesity Day 2022](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/world-obesity-day-2022/) - On World Obesity day, EHN calls on decision makers to protect children from the marketing of nutritionally poor food. It is time for an effective regulatory framework. EHN, together with other health and consumer NGOs calls on the EU to adopt strong regulation to protect children from the marketing of nutritionally poor food. We call on the
- [CureHeart wins the British Heart Foundation’s £30m Big Beat Challenge](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-3/cureheart-wins-the-british-heart-foundations-30m-big-beat-challenge/) - The British Heart Foundation (BHF) announced that it will invest £30 million in CureHeart to develop a cure for genetic cardiomyopathies. CureHeart, a research programme seeking to develop revolutionary gene therapy technologies that could rewrite genes that cause cardiomyopathies, was announced by BHF as the winner of the global Big Beat Challenge award. The winning team is co-led
- [EHN, BEUC and EPHA ask for a timely proposal on Front-of-Pack Nutritional Labelling](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/ehn-beuc-and-epha-ask-for-a-timely-proposal-on-front-of-pack-nutritional-labelling/) - Today, EHN, BEUC and EPHA sent an open letter to Commissioners Kyriakides, Wojciechowski and Vice- President Timmermans expressing their concerns about a possible delay on the proposal on Front of Pack Nutrition labelling. Click here to download the open letter.
- [EHN co-signs joint letter to EMA on antibiotics shortages in Europe](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-2/ehn-co-signs-joint-letter-to-ema-on-antibiotics-shortages-in-europe/) - EHN and 10 patient and consumer organisations signed a joint letter addressed to the Executive Steering Group on Shortages and Safety of Medicinal Products (MSSG) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The Joint letter of patient and consumer organisations asks antibiotics shortages to be declared a ‘major event’, as defined by the Regulation (EU) 2022/123. The organisations point out that
- [International Women’s Day 2023: 8 MEPs join EHN to advocate for gender equity in CVD](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/international-womens-day-2023-8-meps-join-ehn-to-advocate-for-gender-equity-in-cvd/) - On 8 March 2023, on International Women’s Day, the European Heart Network (EHN) affirmed its commitment to advocating for gender equity in cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention, diagnosis, patient care, and research. Eight members of the European Parliament collaborated with EHN in spreading awareness on the key areas of gender equity in cardiovascular health, including Frances
- [Publication of the results of EHN pilot project “A Vending Machine For a Friend"](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/projects/publication-of-the-results-of-ehn-pilot-project-a-vending-machine-for-a-friend/) - The project “A vending machine for a friend’ is aimed at encouraging healthy choices at school and reducing overweight and obesity among young people, as well as contrasting unregulated marketing of unhealthy products targeted to children. On May 18 2023, the results of the pilot project were published in the Journal of Food and Nutrition Sciences. Regulation
- [World Hypertension Day 2023](https://ehnheart.org/news-events/news/category-1/fourth-news-item/) - Hypertension is the leading medical risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and CVD is the leading cause of death in Europe. Excess salt intake is one of the main causes of hypertension. On World Hypertension Day, the European Heart Network calls for policymakers to support food reformulation initiatives and the implementation of other salt reduction strategies
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