Cardiovascular Disease: Tackling the Leading Cause of Global Mortality and Innovating in Anticoagulation Therapy

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) encompasses a range of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and hypertension. CVD is the leading cause of death globally, responsible for an estimated 17.9 million deaths each year, accounting for 32% of all global deaths. The underlying causes of CVD often involve the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis), high blood pressure, and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and smoking.

Global Impact
The impact of cardiovascular disease is immense, both in terms of mortality and the burden on healthcare systems. CVD is not just a disease of the elderly; it increasingly affects younger populations, leading to a loss of productivity and long-term disability. The economic burden of CVD is staggering, with global costs estimated to reach over $1 trillion by 2030, including healthcare costs and lost productivity.

CVD disproportionately affects low- and middle-income countries, where over 75% of CVD deaths occur. These regions often lack the resources for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, exacerbating health disparities and contributing to the global burden of disease. Additionally, the chronic nature of CVD means that patients often require lifelong management, further increasing healthcare costs and resource use.

The Importance of Finding Treatments and Innovating in Anticoagulation Therapy
One critical area in cardiovascular treatment is anticoagulation therapy, which is essential for preventing blood clots that can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and other serious complications. Medications like Eliquis (apixaban) are commonly prescribed for conditions such as atrial fibrillation and deep vein thrombosis to reduce the risk of stroke and systemic embolism. However, while effective, these treatments have limitations, including the risk of bleeding and interactions with other medications.

The development of a replacement or alternative for Eliquis that offers improved safety and efficacy is a crucial goal in fighting cardiovascular disease.