- Expanding strategies for mitigating cardiovascular diseases.
The federal government is considering implementing new measures to decrease heart-related issues in Germany. Chancellor Olaf Scholz's cabinet has proposed a bill suggested by Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, which focuses on enhancing preventive measures and early detection, at the expense of health insurance. Lauterbach, a representative from SPD, expressed, "We need to prioritize heart health preservation." Germany struggles with an excessive number of heart-related fatalities.
In particular, adolescents between the ages of 12-14 and specific adult age groups will receive invitations from health insurers for laboratory trials and assessments of potential risk factors. Existing health assessments will be extended to include cardiovascular disease screenings at specific ages – 25, 40, and 50. Prescribing medications to manage cholesterol levels and assist in quitting smoking will become more straightforward.
Key risk factors associated with heart disease
As per the draft, cardiovascular diseases constitute the most common reason for mortality in Germany. A significant portion of this issue is due to lifestyle, which can be modified – poor diet, insufficient exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake. Improved prevention could potentially reduce healthcare expenditures by billions.
The Commission has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of the proposed bill to enhance heart health prevention and early detection. The Commission's role is crucial in ensuring that the measures, including invitations for laboratory trials and extended health assessments, are executed effectively.
