The EUROASPIRE IV study: Time to program the programs

Abstract

Background: Morbidity and mortality due to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have constantly been on an upsurge both in developed and developing countries despite constant efforts toward preventive, curative, and rehabilitative measures instituted worldwide. Methods: The European Action on Secondary and Primary Prevention by Intervention to Reduce Events (EUROASPIRE) studies ranging from phases I to IV have emerged as a promising endeavor aimed at deciphering the unmet need(s) toward primordial and primary prevention targeting CVDs. The different phases of this study were analysed and deduced to draw conclusions. Observations: Whereas drug treatment and secondary preventive measures have found better population acceptance, lifestyle and dietary modifications have taken a backseat, potentially modifiable for the better if primary care physicians are better sensitized and trained towards appropriate counseling of patients as they are the first contact health resource persons. Conclusion: There is a need for integration of preventive cardiology services into the primary health care systems of countries.