The Burden of CVC

The age-adjusted mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD) has fallen by approximately 65%

The age-adjusted mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD) has fallen by approximately 65% in Australia since 1967. This relates to both a decrease in event rates (and lower prevalence of risk factors) and decreased case-fatality rates with improved treatments. However CVD still constitutes our major public health burden, being responsible for over 40% of deaths, 8% of hospital separations and 12% of general practitioner attendances. The GP has a critical role because most of the population visits a general practitioner each year and the progressive shift to care in the community. Dr Andrew Tonkin – Director of Health, Medical and Scientific Affairs of the National Heart Foundation of Australia. The Never-Ending New Epidemic of Cardiovascular Disease