Epidemiological research and prevention of cardiovascular disease

Sixty one years ago, Denmark joined international epidemiological collaborative efforts to identify and address the causes of the rising mortality from cardiovascular disease. Large prospective population studies led to a breakthrough in our understanding of the causes, enabling prevention and risk stratification of the population. Today, Denmark is considered a low-risk country with respect to cardiovascular disease, which nevertheless remains a common cause of premature death. This case report shows that effective prevention involves both structural changes within society and interventions targeting individuals at risk.