Croí, the Heart and Stroke Charity, made a significant impact by actively participating in two pivotal events simultaneously, addressing cardiovascular health issues on both the European and Irish fronts.
The foundation played a key role in a special cardiovascular health event at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, advocating for a comprehensive EU policy response to improve the cardiovascular health of citizens across the European Union.
The event, part of the 'Vote Cardiovascular Health 2024' campaign by the European Alliance for Cardiovascular Health (EACH ), focused on raising awareness about the critical importance of addressing cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in Europe.
Representing the voice of heart and stroke patients, their caregivers, and citizens from Ireland, the Croí delegation engaged with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs ) to garner support for an EU cardiovascular health plan in the upcoming term. Croí extends its gratitude to the Irish MEPs who pledged their support to the campaign:Frances Fitzgerald, Deirdre Clune, Ciarán Cuffe, Seán Kelly, Grace O'Sullivan, Maria Walsh, Barry Andrews, Billy Kelleher, Colm Markey.
Cardiovascular Disease is responsible for approximately 36,000 deaths annually in Europe, costing €282 billion. In Ireland alone, it claims around 10,000 lives each year and is the leading cause of disability. The 'Vote Cardiovascular Health 2024' campaign aims to mobilise support for a dedicated European Cardiovascular Health Plan.
Croí urges policymakers to show visionary leadership and commitment, emphasising the need for a comprehensive National Cardiovascular Health Strategy in Ireland and across the EU. The organisation highlights that up to 80% of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease are preventable, making preventive measures crucial.
Simultaneously, Mark O’Donnell, Croí Chief Operations Officer and Head of Foundation, and Dr. Lisa Hynes, Croí Head of Health Programmes and Health Psychologist, participated in an Oireachtas Health Committee meeting at Leinster House. The focus was on issues related to cardiovascular health, stroke, heart attack, programmes, services, and prevention.
Mark O’Donnell highlighted the burden of cardiovascular disease in Ireland, the lack of a current National Cardiovascular Health Strategy, and the need for urgent action. He emphasised the importance of a patient-centric approach and shared insights into Croí’s initiatives, including the establishment of Heart & Stroke Voice Ireland to ensure the patient voice is heard.
Croí outlined key challenges, such as delays in diagnostics and the delay in publication of the National Cardiac Services Review. The presentation stressed the importance of preventive measures, early detection, and effective post-hospitalisation support for stroke survivors.
In conclusion, Croí urged policymakers to prioritise and expedite the preparation of a new National Cardiovascular Health Strategy, adequately resource the National Stroke Strategy, and implement clear plans to address the pressing public health challenges faced by society.
