Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, responsible for approximately 17.9 million deaths annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Although in the last decade we have a wide range of investigations and therapies for their prevention, by changing the lifestyle and controlling the risk factors (dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, obesity and sedentary lifestyle), cardiovascular pathologies continue to be the first place in statistics.

In Romania, CVDs also dominate the mortality statistics, with a weight of over 50% of the total annual deaths. Among the most common cardiovascular conditions recorded in the country are coronary heart disease, heart failure and hypertension, each of which has a considerable impact on the health of the population.

In the first place is atherosclerotic disease, especially in complicated forms, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and cerebrovascular accident (CVA). This pathology represents a major health hazard, given that in the United States, a death from a myocardial infarction occurs every 40 seconds. Atherosclerosis, characterized by the accumulation of cholesterol inside the walls of the arteries and the narrowing of their lumen, leads to severe complications by limiting blood flow at this level, triggering acute events - AMI, stroke. The increased mortality rate also explains the researchers' interest in developing new molecules to prevent the development of atheroma plaque. In this sense, we currently have an extensive range of drugs that lower cholesterol values ​​(especially the LDL-cholesterol fraction) and stabilize the atheroma plaque, preventing myocardial infarction.

The second place in the frequency chart is occupied by high blood pressure (HT), often referred to as the "silent killer" because of its often asymptomatic character. Statistics show that approximately 50% of adults suffering from hypertension are not aware of this condition, which exposes them to an increased risk of serious complications, such as myocardial infarction and accidental cerebrovascular accident. Also, only one in five patients diagnosed with HTN receive appropriate treatment, underscoring the need for rigorous monitoring and education about this condition.

In third place is heart failure, a serious chronic disease with an alarming mortality rate. About 50% of people with heart failure die within five years of diagnosis. In addition, it is associated with an increased rate of hospitalization, especially among elderly patients, which adds a significant burden on health systems. Heart failure often results from other cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease, valvular disease or hypertension, and requires careful management to improve the quality of life of affected patients.

These statistics emphasize the need for rigorous preventive measures and continuous monitoring of cardiovascular health. Increasing awareness, improving access to diagnosis and treatment, controlling risk factors, as well as adopting a healthy lifestyle are essential to reduce the incidence and mortality associated with these pathologies.

Bibliography:

1. World Health Organization (WHO). "Global Cardiovascular Disease Report." WHO.int
2. National Institute of Public Health in Romania (INSP). "Statistics and reports on cardiovascular diseases in Romania." insp.gov.ro
3. Romanian Society of Cardiology. "Cardiovascular diseases - prevalence and risk factors in Romania." cardioportal.ro