On 25 September, just ahead of the High-Level Meeting on NCDs, the Global Coalition for Circulatory Health launched a new White Paper for Circulatory Health: Driving Sustainable Action for Circulatory Health at the Harvard Club of New York City.
Aimed at policymakers in national and international bodies, the White Paper is a solution-oriented paper which draws on success stories and patient testimonies to present feasible actions in education and training, universal health coverage, financing, infrastructure, and access to medicines and technologies to advance circulatory health.
The global cost of circulatory diseases
- A global burden of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and kidney disease that account for half a billion disability years
- Almost 1 billion people affected by hypertension, a major risk factor for circulatory diseases
- A risk of stroke that doubles every decade after 55 years of age
Recommendations from the White Paper on Circulatory Health
- Improve access to prevention and care for circulatory health
- Strengthen the role of primary health care doctors, nurses and trained health workers in circulatory health
- Mobilise national resources for circulatory health, and ensure that governments and international organisations measure initiatives and drive action
Speaking at the launch were EU Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Vytenis Andriukaitis, Jamaica’s Minister of Health, Christopher Tufton and David Wood, President of the World Heart Federation.
“This publication is very timely and will bring together leaders in public health by drawing on the success stories and community lessons from around the world.” – Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health of Jamaica
“[The White Paper] is an excellent publication & exactly what policy makers need, showcasing proven, practical steps to advance circulatory health.” – Vytenis Andriukaitis, European Union Commissioner for Health
