Cardiovascular disease: an economical perspective

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Cardiology
• Health Policy

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major global health challenge, accounting for 30% of all deaths worldwide.
• The economic impact of CVDs is substantial, encompassing direct healthcare expenses and indirect costs like lost productivity and reduced quality of life.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) projects a worsening trend in CVD morbidity and mortality, particularly in emerging countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the changes in the Italian national healthcare system concerning cardiovascular disease prevention.
• To examine strategic plans and actions implemented for primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases within Italy.
• To advocate for a shift towards a patient-centered, proactive healthcare model to manage CVDs.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of strategic plans and policy documents within the Italian national healthcare system.
• Review of initiatives focused on primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
• Examination of the evolving patient-physician relationship in the context of CVD management.

Main Results:

• The Italian healthcare system is undergoing changes to enhance cardiovascular disease prevention efforts.
• Strategic plans emphasize primary prevention as a key intervention to mitigate the impact of CVDs.
• A move towards a patient-centered, proactive approach is being explored to improve CVD outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening primary prevention is essential to address the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases.
• Transforming the healthcare model to be more patient-centered and proactive is vital for effective CVD management.
• The Italian healthcare system's strategic actions offer insights into combating cardiovascular diseases globally.