Public Health
Informing EU policy, advancing national cardiovascular health plans and addressing critical challenges
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From news and statements to our latest events, it's all right here
Prioritising prevention and early detection for all
Our recent interview with leading experts highlights the key elements that should be part of a CV health check, and why they matter for prevention, follow up and long-term heart health.
New Gender Equality Strategy recognises women's cardiovascular health gaps
The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) welcomes the growing recognition of gender disparities in cardiovascular health at the highest policymaking levels. Learn how EU initiatives and sustained ESC advocacy are driving progress for women’s cardiovascular health.
European Policy Engagement Rises as ESC Spring Summit Drives Action on Cardiovascular Health
At ESC Spring Summit, MEP Adam Jarubas, Chair of the European Parliament’s Public Health Committee (SANT), delivered a compelling message on the future of cardiovascular health in Europe. “The EU Safe Hearts strategy is a priority of this Parliament. Health may depend on DNA code, but in Europe it must not depend on postal code.”
New Research: Nighttime road traffic noise stresses the heart and blood vessels
A new randomised, double-blind crossover study of 74 healthy participants shows that a single night of road traffic noise can have measurable impacts on health. Participants exposed to nighttime traffic noise, typical of those living in a city, experienced impaired blood vessel function, raised heart rate, and blood protein changes linked to inflammation and stress responses.
A shared mission for global cardiovascular health
Improving heart health on a population-wide scale
At the European Society of Cardiology, we are united by a shared mission to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) – the number one cause of death globally.
We translate cutting-edge science, real-world data and clinical expertise into meaningful action, while championing prevention, equity and healthier communities. Through public health research, data collection and clinical registries, we work to ensure that every person can live a longer, healthier life.
Together with our partners, we shape EU policy, advance national cardiovascular health plans and address critical challenges such as gender equality, geographic inclusion, sustainability and the responsible use of AI in heart care.
The EU Cardiovascular Health Plan
Sharing independent, trustworthy evidence and uniting voices
Alongside our partners, we have been advocating for cardiovascular health for all at a European level for more than a decade.
Sharing independent, trustworthy evidence and uniting the voices of clinicians, researchers and patients to inspire political action.
In a historic milestone, the European Commission launched the first-ever Safe Hearts Plan, marking a major step forward in protecting the heart health of every European citizen. We are proud to have contributed to this plan, as well as driving progress for national cardiovascular health plans to meet the specific needs of countries across Europe.
Join us as we continue the journey toward implementing this landmark plan, ensuring its impact reaches communities across Europe.
Our Priorities
We believe that cardiovascular health is a right – not a privilege.
Our priorities reflect our commitment
Preventing disease, closing and tackling inequalities across gender and geography, and promoting the responsible use of digital health and AI to improve patient outcomes ethically and effectively.
We also work to safeguard health technologies through sound regulation so patients can benefit from safe, timely innovations. Understanding that a healthy planet is essential for healthy hearts, we champion sustainability across policy, practice and within our own organisation.
Explore how we’re building a healthier, more equitable and more sustainable future for every heart.
Public health in action
To improve heart health for everyone, we turn evidence into action.
Our public health initiatives are grounded in evidence-based data.
Strengthened by collaborative public health partnerships and brought to life through interactive workshops and events with a wide range of stakeholders.
By sharing facts and figures, co-creating solutions and engaging across sectors, we drive meaningful change – reducing inequalities, informing policy and advancing cardiovascular health on a population-wide scale.