Cardiovascular Diseases Account for 140,000 Deaths Annually in France, Highlighting Widespread Health Inequities

A new report reveals only 10% of French adults have optimal cardiovascular health, with significant social, gender, and regional disparities contributing to preventable mortality.

Cardiovascular diseases are the second leading cause of death in France, responsible for 140,000 deaths and 1.2 million hospitalizations annually.
Ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and strokes are the most common conditions, with strokes being the leading cause of cardiovascular death among women.
Only 10% of French adults have optimal cardiovascular health, with lower rates among those with less education and in disadvantaged regions.
Social and gender disparities are stark, with women under 65 experiencing rising incidence rates of coronary syndromes and facing poorer medical care compared to men.
Public health officials emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and equitable access to care to reduce the burden of these largely preventable diseases.