Global Burden of Cardiovascular Diseases and Risks, 1990-2022
Authors: Mensah, George A.; Fuster, Valentin; Murray, Christopher J. L.; Roth, Gregory A.
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) persist as the leading cause of death globally, with substantial variation across regions and countries. Objectives: This study aimed to provide updated estimates of the global, regional, and national burden of CVDs and risk factors from 1990 to 2022. Methods: Using data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2022, we analyzed mortality, morbidity, and exposure to 15 leading CVD risk factors across 204 countries and territories. Results: In 2022, an estimated 19.8 million deaths were attributable to CVDs, representing a 21.1% increase from 1990. Ischemic heart disease and stroke remained the leading causes, accounting for 9.44 million and 7.06 million deaths, respectively. High systolic blood pressure was the leading modifiable risk factor, contributing to 10.8 million CVD deaths. Age-standardized CVD mortality declined by 34.3% globally, but the absolute burden increased due to population growth and aging. Conclusions: Despite declines in age-standardized rates, the global CVD burden remains substantial, with significant disparities by region and sex. Urgent action is needed to implement effective prevention strategies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
