Improving worldwide access to inexpensive and effective treatments for common cardiovascular diseases

This essay focuses on a few themes that are usually not discussed in the context of prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). While risk factors for CVD are important, in order to modify them effectively and reduce CVD, efficient health systems are needed. To be effective, health systems need to improve access to essential CVD medications and services for prevention and treatment. They should have an adequate number and mix of key health workers and through appropriate funding and organization overcome gaps in access to essential health services and medical products. Improved health systems are key to improving health through better prevention and treatment–both of which can have a major impact in reducing CVD and mortality.