Characterization of mortality from cardiovascular diseases: Cuba, 2013-2022

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in Cuba and the world. Statistics management contributes to identifying areas of greater risk and need, allows the effective allocation of resources for the prevention and treatment of these diseases and facilitates the implementation of programs to reduce morbidity and mortality. Objective: To characterize the mortality from cardiovascular diseases in Cuba, in the 2013-2022 decade. Methods: An ecological study was carried out. Statistical health yearbooks published from 2014 to 2023 were reviewed. The gross rates of mortality from heart and brain diseases were considered in all ages, according to sex and years of life potentially lost by those causes. Mortality rates adjusted by age and the number of deaths were taken into account by the main cardiovascular diseases and their distribution by age group. Results: A tendency to increase the gross rates of mortality from cardiovascular diseases was evidenced. Mortality rates adjusted by age showed a similar tendency. Heart diseases stood out as responsible for a greater number of deaths and potentially lost years. Mortality rates for cardiovascular diseases were higher in male sex and the number of deceased increase in correspondence with the increase in age. Conclusions: It is necessary to evaluate and rethink current strategies in cardiovascular prevention and develop new guidelines that guarantee adequate balance between effective primary prevention and quality medical assistance.