Diseases of the heart and circulatory system are the leading cause of death in Europe and a major cause of disability. Cardiovascular diseases can impact people of all ages. However, the risk of cardiovascular disease, which include heart failure, atrial fibrillation-related stroke, heart valve disease or coronary heart disease, increase with age. In 2040, 155 million Europeans will be over 65. As Europe's population continues ageing, incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is set to increase dramatically. Preventing, detecting and diagnosing these conditions early – and managing them efficiently when they occur – is essential to keeping workers, and citizens of all ages, out of hospital and in good health, while making efficient use of healthcare resources. This regardless of gender, income or country.

Cardiovascular Disease Burden in Europe, A Call to Action (PDF 244 KB)