10.000 deaths a day: Europe must confront the silent killer

"Cardiovascular disease is Europe's biggest killer, causing the deaths of approximately 10,000 people every day, according to the World Health Organisation. That's why the EPP Group made EU action to prevent and defeat this disease a priority at the outset of the European elections last year. Today, we take a step forward in achieving that goal with the publication of the Cardiovascular Health Strategy, said Tomislav Sokol MEP, EPP Group's spokesman in Parliament's Committee on Public Health, welcoming the announcement of the European Commission scheduled later today. 

"EPP Group MEPs have long called for an EU-wide Cardiovascular Health Plan, including in the EPP 2024 election manifesto, in line with our commitment to safeguarding our citizen's health and well-being. Investing in our citizen's health is not only a moral responsibility but also a strategic investment in Europe’s long-term stability and competitiveness with a resilient workforce. By prioritising prevention and innovation, we can fortify our healthcare systems, while ensuring that public resources are used efficiently and sustainably”, Sokol highlighted.  

“Cardiovascular disease", Sokol continued, "is a European challenge that demands a European response. Like the Beating Cancer initiative, a united effort, scaling up digital health tools, and fostering collaboration between Member States can help the EU reduce preventable deaths. The Union can raise awareness by promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting innovation in treatments, and working to ensure that citizens have equal access to healthcare, regardless of where they live".

“Regarding medical devices, for years, we have been calling on the European Commission to cut red tape in this field.  It was high time for this proposal to be presented. The existing rules are not only an unreasonable burden for companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, but they also lead to poorer healthcare outcomes and real suffering for patients. Heart catheters used in paediatric cardiology, for example, are no longer being manufactured because the bureaucratic burden has become too high. I will work to ensure it is adopted swiftly”, pointed out Peter Liese MEP, EPP Group's spokesman in Parliament's Committee on Environment, Climate and Food Safety. 

"We look forward to thoroughly examining the Commission's proposal and working to deliver on our commitments for a healthier, stronger Europe", Sokol and Liese concluded.