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Cardiovascular defense challenges at the basic, clinical, and population levels
Jason C Kovacic1,2, Jose M Castellano1,2, Valentin Fuster1,2,3
1Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute.
Insights
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading global cause of death, driven by urbanization and lifestyle factors in developing nations. Combating this requires a sophisticated, multipronged global strategy addressing basic, clinical, and population-level challenges.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of mortality worldwide.
- Rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes (obesity, poor diet, inactivity) exacerbate CVD in low- and middle-income countries.
- Addressing CVD requires a complex, multifaceted global approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the challenges in combating cardiovascular disease (CVD) globally.
- To outline basic, clinical, and population-level obstacles in CVD prevention and management.
- To highlight the need for sophisticated, multipronged strategies against CVD.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article.
- It synthesizes information on CVD challenges at various levels.
- Focuses on global health perspectives.
Main Results:
- CVD is the leading cause of death globally.
- Urbanization and lifestyle factors are key drivers, especially in developing nations.
- Significant challenges exist at basic research, clinical practice, and population health levels.
Conclusions:
- A sophisticated and multipronged approach is essential to combat the global CVD epidemic.
- Addressing cultural, societal, and political factors is crucial.
- Integrated strategies across basic science, clinical care, and public health are needed.
Abstract:
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is now the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Particularly in low and middle income countries, rapid urbanization and secondary factors, such as increasing obesity, poor diet, and lack of exercise, have combined to propel CVD into this position. Given the enormous scope of this problem and the complex cultural, societal, and political issues that are involved, an equally sophisticated and multipronged approach is required to combat CVD at the global level. In this review, we outline the basic, clinical, and population level challenges that we face in defending ourselves against this disease.
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