As the population ages, the American Heart Association now projects 6 in 10 adults will have cardiovascular disease by 2050 and additional projections indicate heart valve disease is expected to double by 2040 and triple by 2060.[1] Yet many people do not know they are at risk. On Heart Valve Disease Awareness Day, held annually on February 22, the American Heart Association, the world's leading nonprofit organization focused on changing the future of health for all, encourages health care professionals to prioritize timely diagnosis by listening carefully to every patient's heart at every visit.
Heart valve disease becomes more common with age and often progresses silently. A simple but careful clinical history and precise stethoscope exam can detect early warning signs before symptoms become severe. Early diagnosis can expand treatment options, prevent complications and improve quality of life.
"Projections show heart valve disease is on a steep rise, but too many people don't realize they're at risk. Because the condition often develops quietly, early detection is critical," said Clyde W. Yancy, M.D., M.Sc., FAHA, past volunteer president of the American Heart Association (2009–2010), co-chair of the Target: Aortic StenosisTM Science Advisory Group, and chief of cardiology in the department of medicine at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. "A history and careful exam can contribute to detecting valve disease earlier, helping prevent delays in intervention as the disease progresses. The key is listening – to the history and to the heart. A follow-up with imaging for any hints is the right and best next step."
In addition to routine stethoscope checks, timely echocardiograms and referrals to cardiologists can help ensure people receive appropriate care. Conversations with patients are equally important. Many may not realize effective treatments may be available, including minimally invasive procedures. Discussing options and follow-up care supports shared decision-making and helps patients choose what is right for them.
Heart valve disease and women
Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for everyone, yet women are more likely to be misdiagnosed or diagnosed later than men with heart valve disease. Research shows women and men may experience several heart valve conditions differently, and differences in symptoms and referral patterns may contribute to delayed care.
Women with conditions such as mitral valve prolapse or rheumatic mitral valve disease may experience more severe symptoms than men with the same condition. However, women are less likely to be referred for surgical interventions.[2] Raising awareness among clinicians and patients can help close these gaps and improve outcomes. Timely referrals to cardiologists and proactive treatment decisions can support longer, healthier lives for women living with heart valve disease.
Supporting clinicians and health systems
The Association has identified heart valve disease as a key focus area and continues to support clinicians and health systems in improving patient care. Through its Heart Valve Initiative, the Association works to reduce deaths and improve care for millions of people living with heart valve disease by helping health systems identify patients earlier and align treatment with the latest evidence-based guidelines.
The Association's Target: Aortic Stenosis™ initiative aims to improve timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment while providing comprehensive resources for patients and caregivers. The program uses a data registry to enhance the patient experience, from symptom recognition and diagnosis to treatment and ongoing disease management.
