Strategies for reducing the burden of cardiovascular diseases in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

This commentary outlines the strategies implemented by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to reduce the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) through national health policies and initiatives. These strategies aim to enable sustainable actions for CVDs prevention and control by addressing key risk factors, such as tobacco use, unhealthy dietary habits, and physical inactivity. Assessment of cardiovascular risk is fundamental for early detection and timely treatment. The UAE has reported the availability of essential medicines and basic technologies for preventing heart attack and stroke. Future directions include improving data reporting systems to provide up-to-date statistics on CVDs prevalence and risk factors, including diet, physical activity, body weight, smoking, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol control. In addition, these efforts will cover data on the quality of care, procedures, and economic costs. Strengthening collaboration between academic research institutes and government policymakers is crucial for shaping the UAE’s research agenda. Key steps to further reduce the burden of CVDs in the UAE include enhancing primary health care and emergency medical services, building health-care worker capacity, and improving the accessibility and affordability of priority interventions.