- 15 January 2026
- Posted by: Competere
- Categories: events, highlights, News
Shaping the Future of Cardiovascular Prevention in EuropeEUROPEAN COMMISSION, 15 JANUARY 2026
On January 15, we participated in the EU Safe Hearts Plan stakeholder workshop, organized by the European Commission, to discuss strategies for evidence-based cardiovascular prevention.
About the Safe Hearts Plan
The EU Safe Hearts Plan, launched by the European Commission, aims to tackle cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) across Europe through prevention, education, and innovation. Indeed, Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) – including heart attacks, stroke, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, and congenital heart diseases – have a massive public health, societal, and economic impact in the EU. They are the leading cause of death and disability, affecting around 62 million people and causing 1.7 million deaths each year.
The Plan recognizes that cardiovascular health is influenced by multiple factors – not just nutrition – and seeks to promote personalized, evidence-based strategies that empower citizens to make informed choices. However, some challenges remain.
Focus Areas
Due to time constraints, Pietro Paganini focused his intervention on strategic questions regarding the Plan’s implementation, including:
- Precision Prevention: Investing in precision nutrition and personalized prevention using AI and wearable devices.
- Scientific Rigor: Assessing the scientific basis, methodology, and timeline of ultra-processed food classifications.
- Policy Tools: Evaluating the evidence and consistency supporting the use of taxes as a cardiovascular policy tool.
- Behavioral Prevention: Strengthening physical activity and behavioral prevention, as nutrition accounts for only about 25% of cardiovascular risk.
- Citizen Empowerment: Promoting the concept of balance to educate and empower citizens.
Core Message
The questions raised reflect the core message of the intervention: cardiovascular prevention should move beyond rigid, one-size-fits-all approaches, focusing instead on education, innovation, and citizen empowerment.
Looking Ahead
Effective prevention is not about top-down rules – it’s about working with citizens, not for them. Implementation will be key: Europe has the opportunity to lead in personalized, evidence-based prevention, combining digital tools, real-life testing, and inclusive policymaking. By avoiding shortcuts and oversimplification, we strongly believe that the Safe Hearts Plan can empower citizens, foster innovation, and create a sustainable model for cardiovascular health across the Union.