Key Takeaways & Executive Findings
- •• In 2022, CVDs caused 19.8 million deaths globally, a 21.1% increase since 1990, with ischemic heart disease and stroke as the top killers. • High systolic blood pressure remains the leading modifiable risk factor, responsible for 10.8 million CVD deaths annually. • Age-standardized CVD mortality declined by 34.3% worldwide, but absolute burden rose due to population growth and aging. • Significant disparities persist, with low- and middle-income countries bearing a disproportionate share of the CVD burden.
Abstract
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.
1. Introduction
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, imposing a substantial burden on health systems and economies. Despite advances in prevention and treatment, the global epidemiology of CVDs is evolving, influenced by demographic transitions, urbanization, and the rising prevalence of modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. Understanding the current burden and trends is essential for prioritizing public health interventions and resource allocation.
This study leverages the comprehensive Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2022 to provide updated estimates of CVD mortality, prevalence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) across 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2022. We also quantify the contribution of 15 leading modifiable risk factors to CVD burden, offering a detailed assessment of regional and temporal patterns.
Our findings highlight both progress and persistent challenges: while age-standardized CVD mortality has declined globally, the absolute number of CVD deaths continues to rise, driven by population growth and aging. Disparities in CVD burden across regions and sexes underscore the need for tailored prevention strategies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where the burden is highest and resources are limited.
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Mensah, George A.; Fuster, Valentin; Murray, Christopher J. L.; Roth, Gregory A. (2026). Global Burden of Cardiovascular Diseases and Risks, 1990-2022. Chinese Journal of New Drugs. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.11.007
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the global burden of cardiovascular diseases in 2022?
In 2022, cardiovascular diseases caused an estimated 19.8 million deaths globally, representing a 21.1% increase from 1990. Ischemic heart disease and stroke were the leading causes, accounting for 9.44 million and 7.06 million deaths, respectively.
What are the leading modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases?
High systolic blood pressure is the leading modifiable risk factor, contributing to 10.8 million CVD deaths in 2022. Other major risk factors include dietary risks, elevated LDL cholesterol, air pollution, and tobacco use.
How has the cardiovascular disease burden changed over time?
Age-standardized CVD mortality declined by 34.3% globally from 1990 to 2022, but the absolute number of CVD deaths increased due to population growth and aging. The burden has shifted towards low- and middle-income countries.
What are the key disparities in cardiovascular disease burden?
Significant disparities exist by region and sex. Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Oceania have the highest CVD mortality rates, while high-income countries have seen greater declines. Men generally have higher CVD mortality than women, but the gap varies by region.
What are the implications of this study for public health policy?
The findings underscore the urgent need for effective prevention strategies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Prioritizing control of hypertension, promoting healthy diets, and reducing tobacco and air pollution exposure are critical to reducing the global CVD burden.
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