EU report: cardiovascular diseases cause the most deaths and cost Europe 282 billion EUR per year
A EU-funded report shows that cardiovascular diseases affect over 60 million people and cost the European economy 282 billion EUR annually, reinforcing the need for the upcoming Safe Hearts Plan.
Brussels, December 15, 2025 – Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death and disability in the European Union, according to the new report "State of Cardiovascular Health in the EU," published today and funded through the EU4Health program. The document shows that these conditions affect over 60 million people and generate an estimated economic impact of 282 billion EUR annually, equivalent to about 2% of the EU's GDP. The results highlight the urgent need for the imminent launch of the Safe Hearts Plan, the first European plan dedicated to the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases.
In brief
Cardiovascular diseases: the leading cause of death in the EU.
Over 60 million people affected.
Annual economic costs: 282 billion EUR (2% of the EU's GDP).
Safe Hearts Plan, the first European plan dedicated to CVD, is in preparation.
The report highlights regional, gender, and socio-economic disparities in access and outcomes.
A new EU-funded report confirms that cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the greatest public health challenge in the European Union. According to its findings, CVD are responsible for one-third of all annual deaths in the EU and affect over 60 million people. The report marks the moment when the European Commission is preparing to launch the Safe Hearts Plan, the first European policy framework designed for the prevention, early diagnosis, and management of cardiovascular diseases.
The data in the report highlight strong regional and socio-economic disparities among member states, both in terms of incidence and access to treatment or clinical outcomes. According to the Commission, gender inequalities are also significant, justifying a coordinated European response to reduce these gaps.
The economic impact of cardiovascular diseases is substantial: approximately 282 billion EUR annually, equivalent to nearly 2% of the European GDP. The costs are generated by premature mortality, loss of productivity, and pressure on public health systems.
The Commission emphasizes the role of digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and remote monitoring in modernizing clinical approaches, elements that will play a central role in the future Safe Hearts Plan.
"The report on the state of cardiovascular health in the EU comes at a crucial moment and provides solid evidence that justifies the urgent need for the Safe Hearts Plan, to reverse trends indicating a possible doubling of the incidence of cardiovascular diseases by 2050," said the Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Olivér Várhelyi.
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