Cardiovascular diseases
Every year, an estimated 17 million people globally die of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly heart attacks and strokes. CVDs occur almost equally in men and women. Although heart attacks and strokes are major killers in all parts of the world, 80% of premature deaths from these causes could be avoided by controlling the main risk factors: tobacco, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity.
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Promoting cycling can save lives and advance health across Europe through improved air quality and increased physical activityOn World Bicycle Day, celebrated on 3 June, WHO highlights a new master plan that calls countries to acknowledge cycling as an equal mode of transport and to double the level of cycling by 2030.
Key policy
Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in the WHO European Region 2016–2025HEARTS
Technical package for CVD management in primary health care
Download the 6 modules and the implementation guideVoices of the Region
Jim Geraghty is a 65-year-old farmer from Tullamore, Ireland who suffers a heart condition. In this short film, he offers insights into how notions of masculinity affected his decision to seek medical help.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure and if left uncontrolled, high blood pressure can also cause blindness, irregular heartbeat and heart failure.
Go to World Health Day 2013 siteData and statistics
50%
The percentage of deaths caused by cardiovascular disease in the European Region
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