The Biggest Unmet Needs in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in 2023

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Policy

Background:

• Despite known causes of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD), clinical audits reveal persistent inadequate risk factor control, particularly in high-risk individuals.
• Current guidelines for CVD prevention, though comprehensive, may be underutilized due to their length and complexity.
• Factors hindering the effective implementation of CVD prevention guidelines are examined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline advances in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk estimation methods.
• To explore barriers to the implementation of existing CVD prevention guidelines.
• To highlight the societal and political factors critical for effective CVD prevention.

Main Methods:

• Review of current advances in CVD risk estimation.
• Analysis of factors inhibiting guideline implementation.
• Exploration of societal and political determinants of CVD prevention.

Main Results:

• New medications are being developed, but societal and political issues pose the primary obstacles to effective CVD prevention.
• There is a need for cohesive, integrated strategies at national and European levels with clear responsibilities and accountability.
• Addressing profound health inequalities is essential for equitable CVD prevention.

Conclusions:

• Effective cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention necessitates integrated societal and political strategies, not solely medical advancements.
• Empowering individuals with knowledge about risk and self-management is vital.
• Tackling health inequalities is a fundamental requirement for improving CVD prevention outcomes.