Modelling the Burden of Cardiovascular Disease in the United Arab Emirates

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally. The results from this study are consistent with existing literature showing CVD to be a main cause of morbidity, mortality, and disability in the United Arab Emirates. Between 2016 and 2035, the number of Emirati nationals with CVD will increase five-fold, going from 13,600 to 72,000. Meanwhile, the costs of health care and lost productivity will grow from US$126.9 million in 2016 to US$829.9 million by 2035.

In Modelling the Burden of Cardiovascular Disease in the United Arab Emirates, the authors look at both the direct costs of delivering health care services and their impact on the public health care system and indirect costs from productivity losses, which impact the broader society and economy. Without additional measures to mitigate the impact of population aging and modifiable risk factors, the burden of CVD in the United Arab Emirates will only continue to grow.