The European Commission launched a consultation concerning a future initiative on health checks for cardiovascular diseases, which is part of the broader EU “Safe Hearts Plan,” which aims to shift healthcare from treatment to early detection and prevention.

It proposes developing a common EU protocol for cardiovascular health checks, supported by a future Council Recommendation, to harmonise screening approaches across Member States.

The initiative focuses on identifying risk factors—such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and lifestyle risks—at an early stage through primary care and community-based screening, including digital tools and data systems. It also seeks to reduce inequalities in access to prevention and care, promote awareness, and enable more personalised interventions, ultimately lowering the burden of cardiovascular diseases, which remain the leading cause of death in the EU.

The feedback period is open until May 16, while the Commission adoption is planned for Q4 2026.