Cardiovascular Disease in the Americas: Social Determinants, Public Health Policies, and Recommendations

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine the influence of social determinants of health on the global health problem of cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly focused on the Americas. CVD, encompassing conditions such as coronary heart disease, heart failure, and cerebral vascular disease, is identified as the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries bearing the brunt of its burden. The article discusses how factors such as economic status, education, physical environment, food supply, substance addiction, and health care accessibility contribute to the prevalence of CVD. Additionally, it explores current public health policies addressing CVD and provides recommendations for enhancing these policies to alleviate the burden of the disease. The recommendations include implementing tobacco control policies, raising the legal age for purchasing tobacco products, and advocating for comprehensive health care services. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions, evidence-based policies, and evaluation strategies in combating CVD and improving public health outcomes.