Despite significant medical advances in the diagnosis and management of heart failure (HF), and the extensive body of knowledge available on the causes and precipitants of this clinical syndrome, HF remains a leading health care challenge in both high- and low-income countries. Regardless of socioeconomic status, ‘lack of awareness’ about HF has recurrently been identified as a major stumbling block for patients with HF and their families, communities at large, healthcare workers at all levels of care, and policymakers.
The World Heart Federation (WHF) and AstraZeneca have come together in recognition that the deficiency in HF awareness is a universal problem that requires multifaceted interventions. This collaboration aims to not only identify the barriers as outlined in this report and the WHF Heart Failure Roadmap, but also develop a platform for action. This report highlights that there are significant gaps in the understanding of HF and the burden it places on health care systems and society.
Dr Sarah Kraus
World Heart Federation Emerging Leader
