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Palliative care in cardiovascular medicine
Endrit Cekaj1, Frederik Sand2, David H V Vogel3
1Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn 53127, Germany.
European Heart Journal
|March 25, 2026
Summary
Palliative care (PC) improves quality of life for advanced cardiovascular disease patients by managing symptoms and aligning treatments with patient goals. Early PC integration is crucial, though implementation gaps persist outside heart failure populations.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Palliative Care Medicine
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death globally.
- Advances prolong survival but increase symptom burden and complex care needs.
- Palliative care (PC) can enhance quality of life and align treatments with patient values.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review palliative care integration in cardiovascular medicine.
- To synthesize conceptual foundations, referral triggers, and delivery models.
- To provide practical guidance and an integration algorithm.
Main Methods:
- State-of-the-art literature review.
- Synthesis of conceptual frameworks and delivery models.
- Review of disease-specific considerations, ethical issues, and practical guidance.
Main Results:
- Early PC improves symptom control, quality of life, and reduces distress and low-value care.
- PC core elements include symptom management, communication, shared decision-making, and psychosocial support.
- Implementation gaps exist for cardiac device patients and diverse populations.
Conclusions:
- Palliative care is essential for adults with advanced cardiovascular disease.
- Early and integrated PC improves patient outcomes and aligns care with values.
- Addressing implementation gaps is critical for widespread PC adoption in cardiology.
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