CVD, CKD & T2D

The growing global burden of cardiovascular, cardiorenal, and cardiometabolic diseases calls for urgent action in primary care.

The Global Impact of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

CVDs are the leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for an estimated 17.9 million deaths in 2019, accounting for 32% of all global deaths.
85% of CVD-related deaths are due to heart attack and stroke.
Over 75% of CVD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.
Of the 17 million premature deaths (under 70 years old) from noncommunicable diseases in 2019, 38% were due to CVD

Primary Care’s Critical Role in Prevention & Early Detection

Most cardiovascular diseases are preventable by addressing modifiable risk factors, such as:

Tobacco use
Unhealthy diet & obesity
Physical inactivity
Harmful alcohol consumption

The effects of these risk factors often present as raised blood pressure, elevated blood glucose, high blood lipids, and obesity—key indicators of increased risk for heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and other complications. These intermediate risk factors can be identified and managed in primary care settings, where an estimated 90% of patients are diagnosed and treated.

Diabetes (T2D) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

T2D & CKD significantly increase CVD risk and contribute to the progression of:

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD)
Heart failure (HF)
Valvular disease
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
Stroke
Arrhythmias

The co-existence of CVD, CKD, and T2D not only increases the risk of adverse outcomes but also leads to higher overall and CVD-related mortality.

Obesity & Cardiovascular Risk

Obesity is a major, yet often overlooked, driver of cardiovascular disease. It contributes to hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and inflammation, all of which accelerate the development of CVD. Managing weight through lifestyle interventions, medications, and, where appropriate, bariatric procedures can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk and improve long-term health outcomes.

Bridging the Gap: From Guidelines to Implementation

Despite the availability of international guidelines, their implementation in primary care remains delayed. As discussed in a recent EPCCS Council meeting, ensuring that primary care professionals have access to practical, applicable guidance is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

EPCCS council: about 90% of patients with CVD are managed in primary care settings

A Call to Action for Primary Care

Primary care professionals play a pivotal role in combating CVD, CKD, and T2D. Ensuring early detection, lifestyle interventions, and appropriate medical treatment can prevent premature deaths and reduce the global burden of cardiovascular disease.