Cardiovascular and Neurological

The situation in Luxembourg and worldwide

Globally, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death, accounting for more than 18.6 million deaths each year – nearly a third of all deaths – ahead of cancer.

In Luxembourg, they represent a major public health challenge: in 2021, they were the second leading cause of death, with 1,049 recorded deaths, including 509 men and 540 women affected by circulatory system diseases, as well as 214 deaths linked to neurovascular conditions.

Whilst the figures are showing a downward trend thanks to therapeutic advances and the decline in smoking, ischaemic heart disease and strokes continue to place a heavy burden on the healthcare system. In 2022, the hospitalisation rate for ischaemic stroke still stood at 117.3 per 100,000 inhabitants. Beyond hospitals, these conditions have a profound impact on families and on public health costs.

However, up to 80% of CVD could be prevented through a healthier lifestyle, earlier screening and appropriate treatments.

It is to address these challenges that Luxembourg has launched its National NCD Plan 2023–2027. This national strategy aims to reduce mortality and complications associated with these diseases by strengthening prevention, improving screening and promoting better-coordinated care pathways