The Burden of Cardiovascular Disease in Older Adults

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading global cause of mortality, with aging emerging as its strongest risk factor. Age-related cardiovascular changes, combined with the cumulative burden of modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors, drive the rising prevalence of CVD among older adults. Worldwide population aging is fueling a growing absolute burden of CVD, despite declines in age-standardized mortality. Older adults, especially those over 75 years, experience the highest rates of CVD-related morbidity, disability, and death. Coronary artery disease, stroke, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure account for much of this burden and are projected to increase in the coming decades.