Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the first cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. It is responsible for 300% of all deaths, so that more people die annually from CVD than from any other cause, and 100% of global burden disease. Currently, the vast majority of deaths and disabilities due to CVD take place in low- and middle-income countries. CVD is largely preventable, therefore, the implementation of effective strategies for prevention and control is imperative. Both population-wide measures and improved access to individual health care interventions may result in a major reduction in the health and socioeconomic burden by CVD and its risk factors. These interventions, evidence based and extremely cost-effective, are the "best buys," which are workable solutions and excellent economic investments, also in the poorest countries.