Avoidable mortality from circulatory system diseases in Moldova

Abstract

Mortality from avoidable circulatory system diseases causes one of the major losses in life expectancy, especially in males and population of working ages. The main contributors are the deaths caused by ischaemic heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, and hypertensive diseases. This article analyses the trends in avoidable mortality caused by diseases of the circulatory system and estimates the possible increases in life expectancy due to the elimination of these causes of death. In this regard, the author uses methods of standardization, mortality decomposition and cause-elimination model. The study shows a decline in avoidable mortality from circulatory system diseases during the analyzed period, especially for earlier ages. At the same time, there is a significant differentiation in mortality dynamics depending on sex. In 2016–2018, avoiding these deaths could assure an increase in life expectancy by 3.8 years in males and 2.8 years in females. This possible increase in life expectancy could be partially achieved by improving the quality of the health care system and introducing policies and programs aimed at improving the health of the population. Moreover, programs aimed at preventing diseases of the circulatory system might influence on mortality diminution from other non-communicable diseases and external causes of death.