A European Environment Agency (EEA) briefing reveals that environmental factors like air pollution, extreme temperatures, and exposure to harmful chemicals are responsible for about one in five cardiovascular deaths in the EU, yet these risks can be mitigated. The briefing emphasizes the potential of environmental policies to protect millions from heart disease and save lives.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the EU, claiming over 1.7 million lives in 2022, which accounts for one third of all deaths that year. At least 18% of these deaths are attributed to environmental factors. Additionally, more than 6 million new cases are diagnosed annually, costing Europe approximately EUR 282 billion. According to the EEA report ‘Preventing cardiovascular disease through a healthy environment,’ published today, addressing modifiable environmental and behavioral factors through targeted policies could make a significant impact. The EU’s success in reducing air pollution is a testament to the effectiveness of such measures, with the EU on track to reduce premature deaths from air pollution by over 55% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.
The European Commission’s developing plan for EU cardiovascular health aims to integrate environmental health factors into policy more effectively.
Key environmental factors contributing to cardiovascular deaths include air pollution, extreme temperatures, extreme weather events, transport noise, and exposure to toxic chemicals, including heavy metals and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. These environmental drivers vary by region across Europe.
To reduce these environmental risks, the effective implementation of existing policies, like the Ambient Air Quality Directive, is critical to aligning pollution levels with WHO recommendations, thereby reducing cardiovascular risks.
Further reduction can be achieved through policies and interventions such as:
- Reducing transport noise
- Enforcing chemical regulations and promoting safer alternatives
- Preparing health systems for climatic impacts through early warning systems, public health campaigns, and support for vulnerable groups
- Engaging the health workforce by incorporating environmental content into medical and nursing education
- Promoting the One Health approach to protect human, animal, and ecosystem health
- Raising public awareness of cardiovascular risks from environmental stressors and promoting lifestyle changes
- Introducing nature-based solutions like urban greening and blue spaces to improve air quality, reduce noise pollution, and encourage physical activity.
Leave a Reply