The World Heart Federation

On a mission to achieve heart health for all.

World Heart Vision 2030

Cardiovascular disease is the world’s leading cause of death, claiming more than 20 million lives every year. Most of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where millions lack access to timely prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The World Heart Federation unites more than 200 scientific, medical, patient, and civil society organizations to advance science and drive policy that improves heart health for everyone, everywhere.

20.5m deaths every year from CVD
33% of all deaths are from CVD

World Heart Report 2026

Our flagship report, published annually, with the 2026 edition focusing on congenital heart disease.

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Christ the Redeemer sunset view over Rio De Janerio - World Congress of Cardiology 2026

World Congress of Cardiology 2026

From 8–10 October, the global cardiovascular community meets in Rio de Janeiro.

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2nd World Congress on Rheumatic Heart Disease

Experts, advocates, and people living with RHD come together in Perth, Western Australia.

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world heart summit

World Heart Summit

The World Heart Summit is an international event at the intersection of policy, advocacy, science, and innovation.

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Hypertension

NEW PODCAST EPISODE: Blood Pressure Measurement, Treatment & Scale

How do we accurately measure blood pressure? Listen to our new episode!

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Observatory expert groups - science & public health

World Heart Observatory

The first global data hub for cardiovascular disease.

A surgeon performing an operation in an operating theatre

World Heart Vision 2030

A shared global vision to strengthen collaboration with key sectors and policymakers.

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Latest News

· WHF Communications department

Global Heart enters top 25% of cardiology journals 

We are pleased to share that Global Heart, the official journal of the World Heart Federation, has seen its Impact Factor rise from 3.1 to 5.7. The Impact Factor reflects…
· WHF Communications department

Global experts update heart failure definition to improve prevention, diagnosis and care

Updated international definition of heart failure introduces new classification system and emphasizes earlier detection and personalized treatment DALLAS, June 29, 2026 — A new international expert consensus document refines and…
· WHF Communications department

Extreme heat and the heart

Record-breaking heat is affecting countries around the world, with Europe among the hardest hit as the continent continues to warm at twice the global average. The World Health Organization says more…
· WHF Communications department

World Heart Federation Stands with Venezuela Following Devastating Earthquakes

Our hearts are with the people of Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that have claimed so many lives and left thousands more injured, displaced, or still unaccounted for. The World…
· WHF Communications department

Introducing the 2026 WHF Salim Yusuf Emerging Leaders Cohort: Advancing Integrated Care for Cardiovascular Disease and Multiple Long-Term Conditions

The 2026 edition of the World Heart Federation (WHF) Salim Yusuf Emerging Leaders Programme will return to Florence, Italy, for the second consecutive year. Held in collaboration with the Menarini…
· WHF Communications department

World Heart Federation Appoints Borjana Pervan as Chief Executive Officer

The World Heart Federation (WHF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Borjana Pervan as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 June 2026. Ms Pervan brings over two…
· WHF External Agency department

Designed to Addict: Newer Tobacco and Nicotine Products Are a Threat to Cardiovascular Health

The World Heart Federation (WHF) is proud to celebrate World No Tobacco Day – under the banner Unmasking the Appeal: Countering Tobacco and Nicotine Addiction – together with the global…
· WHF External Agency department

WHF calls for stronger action on cardiovascular health at the 79th World Health Assembly

The World Heart Federation represented its Members and the global cardiovascular community at the 79th World Health Assembly, which was held from 18 to 23 May 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland.  Throughout the Health Assembly, WHF engaged…
· WHF External Agency department

PAHO and the Global Chagas Coalition highlight the central role of women in eliminating the disease

World Chagas Disease Day 2026: Official Statement 08/04/2026 World Chagas Disease Day: April 14, 2026 For World Chagas Disease Day (April 14), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Global Chagas…

Urban Centres: The Frontline of the Fight Against Cardiovascular Disease

Urban centres, where the vast majority of the world’s population now resides, are the frontline in our fight against cardiovascular disease. By harnessing a wide array of sectors—not just healthcare, but also urban planning, environment, and technology—we can make significant strides towards healthier populations, curb preventable diseases, and significantly reduce premature loss of life.

Prof Jagat Narula, President, World Heart Federation

We’re the world’s heart. Join us.

World Heart Observatory

Explore global cardiovascular data, research findings, and evidence-based insights to help inform policy and practice.

Get Involved

Join us to help fight cardiovascular disease, advocate for heart-healthy policies, and support communities worldwide.