Rising to the challenge
On 18 November 2024, the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH) hosted a high-level event in Brussels titled “Rising to the Challenge: Time for Action on Cardiovascular Health”, at a critical moment for EU health policy.
With CVD still the leading cause of death and disability in Europe - affecting over 60 million people and costing the EU €282 billion annually - the discussion focused on how to turn growing political momentum into concrete action.
Speakers from EU institutions, national health ministries, patient groups, and leading experts explored ways to reduce mortality and improve quality of life through a holistic approach that integrates prevention, early detection, treatment, and rehabilitation.
The conversation highlighted the importance of coordinated EU-driven initiatives, innovative therapies, and targeted policies to tackle health inequalities, while drawing on best practices from Member States already implementing national cardiovascular health plans.
The event brought to the fore the urgency of advancing cardiovascular policy at both EU and national levels, leveraging at the time the upcoming Council Conclusions and the anticipated EU Cardiovascular Health Plan to ensure the right tools and resources are in place to support communities and Member States.
Additional information and event coverage, including a highlight video, can be found here.