Read the cardiovascular disease needs assessment
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the second leading cause of death in Islington, responsible for one in four deaths.
Cardiovascular disease refers to a group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels. They include coronary heart disease, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. Five modifiable risk factors account for most of the CVD burden:
- hypertension
- high LDL cholesterol
- high BMI
- smoking
- diabetes
Although progress has been made, too many people still have undiagnosed conditions, and not everyone is getting the treatment or support they need. CVD risk and outcomes are unevenly distributed, residents from Black ethnic backgrounds, people who speak Turkish as their main language, and those living in the most deprived areas are more likely to be affected.
Islington has a wide range of services that help people lead healthier lives, including support to stop smoking, become more active, manage weight, and reduce diabetes and alcohol risks. Many of these services achieve good results, but some people face barriers accessing or completing them. The findings highlight a strong opportunity for the borough to strengthen prevention, improve early diagnosis, and work more closely with local communities. By focusing on the people and neighbourhoods at highest risk, and by making healthy lifestyles easier for everyone, Islington can reduce avoidable heart disease and help more residents live longer, healthier lives.