Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are reported as the leading cause of death in Europe, including Poland, imposing a significant economic burden estimated at around €12 billion per year.

This figure encompasses direct healthcare expenses as well as indirect costs stemming from reduced productivity and the financial strain on informal caregiving.

As outlined in a recent report by PwC, entitled 'Towards Better Cardiovascular Health in Poland', there is a pressing need for comprehensive healthcare reforms focused on prevention, early detection, and treatment.

During a recent debate, Professor Robert Gil, President of the Polish Cardiac Society, emphasized that resolving systemic issues surrounding cardiovascular care requires more than additional funding alone; it also necessitates increased operational efficiency and enhanced coordination of healthcare services.

In December 2024, the Council of the EU adopted conclusions aimed at improving cardiovascular health across its member states, focusing on prevention, early detection, treatment, and rehabilitation.

In response, Poland has begun implementing a national strategy known as the National Cardiovascular Disease Programme (NPChUK) for 2022–2032, which prioritizes these areas.

Despite the strategy's recognition as essential, significant gaps remain in its execution.

The PwC report emphasizes the need to strengthen preventive measures, bolster early detection, and refine treatment options.

As Poland assumes its presidency of the EU, there is a unique opportunity for the country to influence the European health agenda positively.

A critical area identified in the report is the need for systematic cardiovascular screening.

Findings from the LIPIDOGRAM cohort study indicate that 84% of Polish primary care patients exhibit dyslipidaemia, a major risk factor for atherosclerosis.

However, many screening programs have been either discontinued or substantially reduced, resulting in considerable shortcomings in early detection initiatives.

Experts advocate for a robust approach to ensure the seamless integration of cardiovascular screening into primary care settings and workplace health services.

Moreover, the establishment of coordinated care networks, like the National Cardiovascular Network, which is currently available only in selected regions, is deemed essential.

Further recommendations include enhancing data collection and analysis practices, similar to those of the Czech Republic's National Institute of Health Information and Statistics, to support evidence-based policymaking and improve patient care.

Additionally, aligning healthcare funding with medical advancements and updated clinical guidelines is vital.

This encompasses regularly reviewing reimbursement policies to ensure equitable access to treatment, expediting the approval of effective medical procedures, creating a fast-track pathway for innovative technologies, and broadening access to genetic testing.

The report's findings were shared during an expert debate on January 28, held under the auspices of Poland's EU Council presidency, with support from the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) and the Polish Association of Innovative Pharmaceutical Companies (INFARMA).

Michał Byliniak, General Director of INFARMA, highlighted the critical role of health security, emerging particularly from lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He noted that attention to well-functioning healthcare systems and access to innovation would be vital during Poland's presidency, with hopes that ongoing discussions will lead to robust solutions enhancing health security for EU patients in the coming years.