EU Health Checks Week calls on Europeans to know their heart numbers
EU Health Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi is urging Europeans to check their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, as cardiovascular disease kills around 1.7 million people in Europe each year, most of it preventable.
European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare Olivér Várhelyi has published an opinion piece tied to the EU Health Checks Week, which takes place around World Heart Day. He points out that cardiovascular disease remains Europe's leading cause of death, claiming roughly 1.7 million lives annually, even though up to 80% of premature deaths could be prevented through early screening and prevention.
Warning signs
According to the commissioner, high blood pressure may affect as many as 45% of adults, about half of whom are unaware of their condition. The number of people with diabetes has grown by 22% over the past decade, and obesity is no longer only an adult problem — it now affects roughly 9% of children and young people aged 5 to 19. Várhelyi also flags rising use of e-cigarettes and other nicotine products, particularly among young people, who use e-cigarettes at twice the rate of adults. While overall alcohol consumption in the EU has been falling, the average of around 10 litres per person still poses a significant health risk.
A plan through 2035
Without action, the burden of cardiovascular disease could double by 2050, the commissioner warns. In response, the European Commission adopted the "Safe Hearts" cardiovascular health plan in December 2025, aiming to cut cardiovascular deaths by 25% by 2035. Currently, member states devote only 3% of their health budgets to prevention.
The EU Health Checks Week also marks the launch of a long-term campaign called "Know Your Numbers," encouraging people to find out their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels and discuss them with a healthcare professional. Details on national events are available on the campaign's website.
