Event Emphasizes the Importance of Combatting Cardiovascular Disease

That was the takeaway message from a roundtable discussion hosted by the European Alliance for Patient Access and Mended Hearts Europe at the recent European Society of Cardiology meeting in London. The roundtable also focused on the critical role of awareness and advocacy initiatives.

Efforts Around the World

National efforts like Spain’s “Don’t let it burn out” campaign and the United Kingdom’s NHS long-term cardiovascular disease plan were highlighted as key examples of how awareness can drive early detection and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The event also underscored the power of patient advocacy, with programs such as “Rock your scar” empowering individuals to raise awareness and inform policy.

The Global Alliance for Patient Access’ Executive Director, Brian Kennedy, emphasized that the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting on non-communicable diseases presents a unique opportunity to elevate cardiovascular disease on the global policy agenda.

Moving Forward

The event concluded with a call for greater collaboration among health care providers, advocates and policymakers to amplify patient voices and reduce the global burden of cardiovascular disease.

By focusing on awareness and advocacy, countries can address cardiovascular disease and improve patient outcomes.