Heart Disease Costs to Triple by 2030

The American Heart Association reports that currently, 1 in 3 Americans (36.9% of the total national population) have some form of heart disease, including high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke and other conditions. By 2030, cardiovascular disease, the nation’s leading cause of death,  is projected to affect approximately 116 million Americans (40.5%), with the largest increases anticipated in stroke (up 24.9%) and heart failure (up 25%).  As a result, The American Heart Association warns that the cost to treat heart disease in the United States will triple by 2030.   Between 2010 to 2030, the cost of medical care for heart disease (in 2008 dollar values) will rise from $273 billion to $818 billion. Concluding that: “These findings indicate [cardiovascular disease] prevalence and costs are projected to increase substantially,” The American Heart Association urges that: “Effective prevention strategies are needed if we are to limit the growing burden of [cardiovascular disease].”