A study on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiovascular disease in England shows declines in the incidence of some diseases and unequal burdens in the population. The analysis is based on anonymized data from over 57 million people from January 2020 to May 2024 and was published in The Lancet Public Health.

The data from hospital, primary care, death and specialist registries were processed in a secure environment. Incidence, prevalence, mortality within 30 days as well as heart attacks and strokes up to one year after diagnosis were examined. Influences of age, gender, ethnicity, disadvantage, region and long-term illnesses were taken into account.

During the first lockdown in 2020, the number of new diagnoses decreased, but those affected died more frequently. Ethnic differences showed higher rates of coronary disease in individuals of Bangladeshi, Indian and Pakistani origin, and high blood pressure in African, Caribbean and other black origins, with lower lethality than in the white British population. Higher mortality rates from infarctions and strokes occurred in the north, Midlands, parts of the south and eastern coastal areas.

Compared to before the pandemic, the incidence increased in 2024, especially for myocarditis (26 percent) and heart failure (prevalence by 25 percent). The increase could be due to direct virus effects, supply disruptions and catch-up effects.

The results are intended to facilitate resource management and address inequalities. A dashboard makes the data accessible. The linked data could be used for future pandemic preparation and policy.

Original Paper:

Burden of cardiovascular diseases in England (2020–24): a national cohort using electronic health records data – The Lancet Public Health

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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