The role of JACARDI in enhancing CVD prevention and management

Abstract Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of mortality in Europe, requiring a coordinated, evidence-based, and equity-driven response. The European Union Council Conclusions call for strengthened CVD policies across prevention, early detection, treatment and rehabilitation, explicitly recognizing the role of the Joint Action on Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes (JACARDI). Co-funded by the EU4Health Programme, JACARDI supports Member States (MS) to advance towards these objectives by piloting innovative solutions, fostering best practices exchange and facilitating the translation of evidence into policy. JACARDI ley priorities align with the Council's recommendations. Through its work on health literacy, JACARDI contributes to improving population knowledge and awareness. By enhancing data systems, the JA supports the development of robust surveillance systems. Early detection of individuals at risk is another pillar of JACARDI, which promotes tailored screening strategies. Furthermore, the JA fosters integrated care pathways, ensuring continuity of care and empower individuals to actively manage their health, with dedicated efforts to strengthen patients’ self-management strategies. Additionally, by addressing the intersection of CVD and labour participation, JACARDI explores policies and practices that enable individuals with CVD to remain in the workforce. Additionally, it advances comprehensive approaches to manage both CVD and diabetes, ensuring equity remains central to all activities through a dedicated methodology. By aligning with EU policies and turning recommendations into concrete actions, JACARDI strengthens MS capacities to implement sustainable and equitable CVD strategies. As Europe moves towards a coordinated framework for CVD prevention and management, JACARDI serves as a catalyst for bridging the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that scientific evidence leads to meaningful improvements in cardiovascular health across the EU. Speakers/Panellists Hanna Tolonen THL, Helsinki, Finland Héctor Bueno Spanish National Centre for Cardiovascular Research, Madrid, Spain Birgit Beger European Heart Network, Brussels, Belgium