Pharmacists Could Be the Missing Link in Fighting Heart Disease

Nearly half of all cardiovascular diseases could be avoided with better prevention. Yet many patients still go undiagnosed or untreated. Now, experts suggest pharmacists could play a bigger role in closing these gaps—from blood pressure checks to improving medication adherence after serious events like heart attacks or strokes.

High blood pressure remains a major issue, with only one in five patients receiving proper treatment. Diagnosis rates are also low: just 50% of men and 60% of women with hypertension are identified. Many remain unaware of their condition, missing out on early intervention.

Pharmacists could help by offering blood pressure screenings and clear advice on medication. Simple steps, like explaining the benefits of statins—well tolerated by most, with only rare side effects like muscle pain—might improve adherence. After a heart attack, stroke, or heart failure, pharmacies could also support recovery by ensuring patients follow treatment plans. Experts, including cardiologists, highlight the need for better teamwork between pharmacists, GPs, and heart specialists. While no specific pharmacists have been named, interdisciplinary efforts have already shown promise in reducing care gaps for heart and circulatory diseases.

Better prevention and follow-up care could cut cardiovascular disease rates significantly. With pharmacists stepping in for screenings, education, and post-event support, more patients might get the treatment they need. The focus now is on turning these ideas into wider practice across healthcare teams.