Cardiovascular diseases continue to be one of the major health problems both in Lithuania and globally, according to a recent press release. Data from the Hygiene Institute indicates that in 2024, approximately 37,000 people died in Lithuania, with nearly 19,000 of those deaths attributed to circulatory system diseases. Additionally, reports from Eurostat show that Lithuania ranks among the EU countries with a very high standardized mortality rate from cardiovascular diseases. This alarming situation calls for urgent attention to heart health.

On a global scale, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that cardiovascular diseases claim about 17.9 million lives each year, accounting for roughly one-third of all deaths worldwide. The most common causes of these fatalities include myocardial infarction and stroke. The article stresses that understanding cardiovascular disease is essential, as it is not merely an issue confined to older individuals but rather a critical public health concern that demands recognition across all demographics.

A prominent cardiologist, J. Jurgaity, emphasizes that the responsibility for heart health extends beyond the individual. It is crucial for society at large to acknowledge the importance of cardiovascular health and to engage in preventative measures. Raising awareness and promoting heart-healthy lifestyles is essential to reducing the burden of these diseases, affirming that true love for oneself includes caring for one’s heart.