Some 61.8 million Americans have one or more type(s) of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is a significant cause of mortality. Since 1900, CVD has been the number one cause of death in the United States every year except 1918, with 958,775 deaths caused by CVD in 1999, alone.

The prevalence of CVD has a significant effect on the economy, as well as on mortality. In 1998, $26.4 billion in payments were made to Medicare beneficiaries for hospital expenses due to cardiovascular problems. The total cost (both direct and indirect) of cardiovascular disease and stroke in the US in 2002 is estimated at $329.2 billion. By comparison, the estimated cost in 2001 of all cancers was $156.7 billion, approximately half the cost for CVD.

Epidemiological and statistical studies continue to identify a number of factors that increase the risk of heart disease. Some of the modifiable factors of heart disease include high blood pressure, diabetes, and high blood cholesterol. Despite awareness campaigns, these risk factors remain prevalent, and in some cases, are becoming more common. An estimated 50 million Americans aged 6 and older have high blood pressure. Of those people, 31.6% are unaware they have high blood pressure. The prevalence of diabetes is on the rise, up to 6.5% in 1998 from 4.9% in 1990. With 10.6 million Americans having physician-diagnosed diabetes, an estimated 5.6 million people have undiagnosed diabetes. About 102.3 million adults have total blood cholesterol levels of 200mg/dL and higher. Of these, about 41.3 million are considered to be high risk, with total cholesterol levels above 240 mg/dL.

Recognizing the significant prevalence and economic impact of CVD, and the fact that many risk factors for CVD remain unchecked, The France Foundation is dedicated to educating medical professionals in the areas of cardiovascular disease and related conditions. To view available activities in this area, please visit our homepage.

The France Foundation was a finalist in the 2003 "Globals" health care awards for its CME work in the area of cardiovascular disease.



REFERENCES

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (NHANES III) 1988-1994

CDC/NCHS and the American Heart Association [AHA]

AHA. 2002 Heart and Stroke Statistical Update. Dallas, Texas: AHA, 2001

Health Care Financing Review, Statistical Supplement [2000], HCFA

NHLBI from NHANES III [1988-1991], CDC/NCHS

Sixth Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation and Treatment of High Blood Pressure [JNC VI, 1991-1994]

Diabetes Care. 2000;23:1278-1283

Diabetes Care. 1998;21:518-524

Top of Page >

Copyright © 2003-2006 The France Foundation
[Privacy Policy] [Terms of Use]