WHO > Health topics > Cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular disease is caused by disorders of the heart and blood vessels, and includes coronary heart disease (heart attacks), cerebrovascular disease (stroke), raised blood pressure (hypertension), peripheral artery disease, rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart disease and heart failure. The major causes of cardiovascular disease are tobacco use, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet.


GENERAL INFORMATION

Fact sheet
Cardiovascular diseases

Q&A
What can I do to avoid a heart attack or a stroke?

MULTIMEDIA

Feature
Stroke: Roberto survives on family support

RELATED TOPICS

- Chronic diseases
- Diet and physical exercise
- Tobacco
- Nutrition

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

CVD prevention and control

Cardiovascular diseases: strategic priorities

- More about cardiovascular diseases

PUBLICATIONS

Prevention of cardiovascular disease: guideline for assessment and management of cardiovascular risk

Prevention of recurrent heart attacks and strokes in low and middle income populations

- More publications about cardiovascular diseases

STATISTICS

Statistics on chronic diseases and risk factors


WHO PROGRAMME AND ACTIVITIES

Cardiovascular diseases
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES IN WHO REGIONS

Region of the Americas
European Region
Eastern Mediterranean Region
Western Pacific Region