Moving towards universal cardiovascular health in mass gatherings

Mass gatherings present a critical public health challenge where the threat of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is not given as much consideration as infectious diseases. This paper advocates for a fundamental paradigm shift: repositioning these events from transient risk environments into platforms for proactive CVD intervention and sustainable health system legacy. We propose a comprehensive framework that integrates equity-driven, on-site health promotion with innovative digital health technologies for real-time monitoring and early detection. This approach is designed to create lasting impact by ensuring continuity of care for participants beyond the event and, most importantly, by building a permanent legacy of enhanced local capacity. This includes trained personnel, strengthened emergency infrastructure, and robust policy protocols that benefit host communities long after the gathering concludes. By strategically embedding cardiovascular health into mass gathering planning, we can accelerate global health equity, transform population health outcomes, and ensure these events leave a legacy of healthier, more resilient communities.