3.P. Round table: Towards a European Cardiovascular Health Plan: from evidence to policy for prevention and management

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in Europe, posing significant challenges to individuals, healthcare systems, and economies. Despite advancements in care, disparities persist in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment across Member States. Recognizing the urgency for coordinated action, the European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to improving cardiovascular health through key policy milestones, including the Council Conclusions on the Improvement of Cardiovascular Health (14 November 2024) and the mission letter of Commissioner Várhelyi. This workshop aims to foster dialogue among policymakers, researchers, and public health professionals on the development of a European Cardiovascular Health Plan. It will highlight data-driven, equity-oriented strategies for CVD prevention and management, and showcase the role of the Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes (JACARDI) in supporting Member States. The session will open with a presentation from JACARDI, which is actively supporting Member States in strengthening CVD prevention and management through standardized protocols, innovative interventions, and cross-country collaboration. This will be followed by insights from DG SANTE on effectively translating scientific evidence into policy to drive meaningful improvements in cardiovascular health across the EU. This will set the stage for a broader discussion on the essential components of an effective and equitable CVD strategy. Experts will explore how best practices and harmonized care models can support early detection and prevention, while data-driven approaches can inform action and promote gender equity in cardiovascular care. The panel discussion will also highlight the crucial role of civil society in shaping policies that are both inclusive and evidence-based, ensuring stronger public engagement in CVD prevention and management. The session will conclude with an interactive discussion aimed at translating insights into concrete steps for advancing a European Cardiovascular Health Plan. Building on the topics explored-early detection, equitable access to care, data-driven policymaking, and the role of civil society-participants will discuss how to move from strategy to implementation. The conversation will focus on identifying practical measures to integrate best practices into national health systems, ensuring policies are inclusive and responsive to diverse population needs. Additionally, it will explore ways to strengthen collaboration between policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and patient organizations to create a more coordinated and sustainable approach to cardiovascular health across Europe. By aligning research, policy, and practice, this workshop will contribute to shaping a coordinated EU strategy for cardiovascular health. It will support ongoing efforts to reduce the burden of CVDs and promote equitable, high-quality care across Member States. Key messages • A European Cardiovascular Health Plan is essential to ensure a unified, evidence-based approach to CVD prevention and management, reducing disparities and improving health outcomes across EU. • Strengthening data-driven policymaking and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration are key to building resilient health systems, advancing equity, and effectively addressing the burden of CVD in the EU.