EU recommends regular heart checks from age 35
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The European Union has advised that individuals under 35 should undergo heart disease screening at least once, with regular health check-ups recommended for those aged 35 and older. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death and disability within the 27-nation bloc, claiming 1.7 million lives annually and affecting 62 million people.
Despite the rise in heart diseases, risk factors such as hypertension, cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity can be mitigated if detected early. The European Commission, the EU's executive branch, aims to establish improved practices across the bloc, noting that only a few countries currently have screening protocols in place.
For those under 35, the commission suggests a minimum of one health check, encompassing blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol tests. For individuals aged 35-64, a more comprehensive array of tests is recommended at least every five years, including lifestyle factors, respiratory function, reproductive health status, and mental health evaluations. Starting from age 65, the EU advises health checks every three to five years.
EU Health Chief Oliver Varhelyi emphasized the importance of fostering healthy habits from a young age and identifying risks sooner. He highlighted the high prevalence of smoking and vaping, along with obesity and physical inactivity among the younger population as contributing factors to the rising heart disease rates.
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