Epidemiology, treatment, and guidelines for the treatment of heart failure in Europe

Abstract

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is associated with a heavy burden of disease for patients and healthcare professionals. Quality of life and long-term prognosis for affected patients remain poor, and 5-year survival has been likened to that associated with some of the major malignancies. As a result of the ageing of the global population and the availability of effective treatments to prolong survival in patients with acute coronary syndromes, the incidence of CHF is increasing and the number of patients at risk of developing this condition is expected to grow. Despite the increasing prevalence of heart failure (HF), particularly in elderly populations, its exact incidence and prevalence remain largely unknown and probably underestimated due to a lack of accurate epidemiological data and difficulties associated with correct diagnosis. As a result, HF is associated with widespread undertreatment and the allocation of appropriate resources remains problematic. Numerous pharmacological therapies are available for the effective management of CHF, supported by a wealth of data from large scale, randomized clinical trials. Widespread adoption and implementation of evidence-based guidelines and treatment strategies are vital if survival is to be improved and patients are to receive optimal care for this devastating condition.