Preventing heart failure: a position paper of the Heart Failure Association in collaboration with the European Association of Preventive Cardiology

The heart failure epidemic is growing and its prevention, in order to reduce associated hospital readmission rates and its clinical and economic burden, is a key issue in modern cardiovascular medicine. The present position paper aims to provide practical evidence-based information to support the implementation of effective preventive measures. After reviewing the most common risk factors, an overview of the population attributable risks in different continents is presented, to identify potentially effective opportunities for prevention and to inform preventive strategies. Finally, potential interventions that have been proposed and have been shown to be effective in preventing heart failure are listed.

Automated summary

This article discusses the growing epidemic of heart failure and the importance of prevention in reducing hospital readmission rates and its clinical and economic burden. It aims to provide evidence-based information and effective preventive measures. By analyzing risk factors and population attributable risks in different continents, potential opportunities for prevention and strategies are identified. The article also lists potential interventions that have been shown to be effective in preventing heart failure.