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Strengthening the rehabilitation in health systems at EB152

03 Feb 2023

This statement was delivered by the World Heart Federation at the 152nd session of the WHO Executive Board.

Honourable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,

The World Heart Federation and its Members applaud the WHO Secretariat for its report and leadership in strengthening rehabilitation services for people living with NCDs, cardiovascular disease, and post-COVID conditions.

As you are aware, people affected by cardiovascular disease are at greater risk of recurrent events. Cardiac rehabilitation encompasses a set of cost-effective interventions that are essential to the management of heart conditions and significantly reduces cardiovascular morbidity as well as mortality.

We urge Member States to ensure the full continuum of care, including health promotion, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care, rehabilitation, and palliative care by integrating these services into Universal Health Coverage, Primary Health Care, and emergency preparedness plans.

Thank you.