[Epidemiological research and prevention of cardiovascular disease]

Sixty one years ago, Denmark joined international epidemiological collaborative efforts to identify and address the causes of the rising mortality from cardiovascular disease. Large prospective population studies led to a breakthrough in our understanding of the causes, enabling prevention and risk stratification of the population. Today, Denmark is considered a low-risk country with respect to cardiovascular disease, which nevertheless remains a common cause of premature death. This case report shows that effective prevention involves both structural changes within society and interventions targeting individuals at risk.