Know your numbers, protect your heart – take a simple check and join Europe’s fight against the silent killer. Today marks the start of the EU’s first-ever Screening Week that encourages people to get tested for cardiovascular diseases and raise awareness around prevention.
Cardiovascular diseases are the EU's number one killer, claiming 1.7 million lives every year. Some 80% of cardiovascular diseases can be prevented by tackling risk factors such as:
- high blood pressure
- cholesterol
- high blood sugar
- obesity
The EU aims to reduce premature cardiovascular deaths by 25% by 2035 through its Safe Hearts Plan, including by tackling these risk factors. The EU is also launching an EU-wide campaign that encourages people to speak to a health professional about cardiovascular health checks, to save lives.
Ahead of World Heart Day on September 29, the European Commission has also proposed a Recommendation on cardiovascular health checks. This looks to improve early detection and screening and, ultimately, reduce premature deaths from cardiovascular diseases. The recommendation:
- supports EU countries in designing and implementing cardiovascular health checks at national level
- proposes these checks be accessible for all and address the needs of high-risk and vulnerable groups, in particular
- encourages EU countries to offer personalised prevention and appropriate vaccination advice to citizens who are at increased risk for cardiovascular diseases.
Health literacy helps people manage their health and understand why regular cardiovascular health checks are vital. The recommendation encourages EU countries to raise awareness and promote the widespread use of these checks.
For more information
Know Your Numbers - Public Health
- Publication date
- 28 September 2026
- Author
- Directorate-General for Communication
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