This statement was delivered by Ms. Fernanda de Carvalho, our Advocacy Committee member for PAHO, at the Seventy-Sixth Session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Americas
SEVENTY-SIXTH SESSION OF THE REGIONAL COMMITTEE FOR THE AMERICAS
AGENDA ITEM 4.5
Honourable Chair,
Distinguished Delegates,
The World Heart Federation applauds the World Health Organization and its Member States for their Policy on Long-Term Care.
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide, accounting for approximately 20.5 million deaths every year. Heart conditions are generally chronic in nature and can lead to severe disabilities, requiring long-term or even lifelong care. Conversely, people living with disabilities also face a greater risk of developing heart disease.
The HEARTS in the Americas initiative, which focuses on hypertension control and secondary prevention at primary health care level, can significantly contribute to the prevention and reduction of cardiovascular morbidity, mortality, and related disabilities.
WHF urges Member States to adopt and implement the proposed resolution, specifically:
- Institute the HEARTS in the Americas initiative as the standard model of care for cardiovascular risk management in the region;
- Integrate person-centred long-term care across the full continuum of care – from health promotion, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment to rehabilitation and palliative care – within primary health care, universal health coverage, and emergency preparedness plans; and
- Strengthen the health workforce to reduce the workload and ensure the well-being of informal caregivers, especially women.
Thank you.