London ranked second globally for heart disease control

London ranked second globally for heart disease control
Credit: Jeremy Selwyn

London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – London has been rated second only to Hong Kong in a global analysis of cities’ efforts to control and treat heart disease. 

How Did London Secure Its Position as a Leader in Heart Disease Control?

The UK capital was honoured by the World Heart Federation (WHF) in its ‘City Heartbeat Index’ for following policies like the Ultra-low emission zone (Ulez), restricting junk food adverts on the Tube, and greatly extending its cycle lane network.  The index of 50 world cities puts London above every other European capital, as well as almost all global competitors, such as New York and Tokyo. 

The study, sponsored by Novartis and independently operated by Economist Impact, produced an overall hierarchy by taking account of different factors, with London achieving the highest globally in the ‘governance’ factor.

What Are the Key Factors Behind London’s Success in Governance and Air Pollution Control?

WHF president-elect Dr Jagut Narula expressed London was “a pioneer in air pollution controls” and has at the same period made significant efforts to boost “active travel” among citizens by opening up more cycle lanes, low-traffic neighbourhoods, and pedestrian connections.  These policies are important, he stated, because vulnerability to air pollution is linked to the worsening of all major cardiovascular diseases. 

How Does London’s Heart Health Performance Compare to Other Major Cities?

London performed slightly well when looking at heart-related ‘health risks’, particularly in periods of people’s blood pressure levels, cholesterol intake, and consumption of trans fats.  Dr Narula expressed the capital’s NHS services were operating to reduce those risks, such as by utilising Inclisiran, a new cholesterol-lowering drug. He highlighted that as well as enabling healthier lives, efforts to tackle heart disease also make obvious “economic sense” for cities, with savings for the health service and workers reasonably able to participate in the jobs market.

How Is Mayor Sadiq Khan Responding to London’s Achievements and Future Health Goals?

Mayor Sadiq Khan stated he was “extremely proud of the work we have accomplished to make London a healthier place to live”. He added: “We have made tangible progress improving health outcomes by taking old lacing cars off our roads and bringing cleaner air to millions more Londoners, encouraging more walking and cycling and encouraging healthier food advertising on our transport network. 

“However, there is more we require to do to help Londoners to live in reasonable health and I am determined to perform with the new Government and our health partners as we persist in building a cleaner, greener and healthier London for everyone.”  Hong Kong and London were observed at the top of the ranking with Madrid in third place, Berlin in fourth and New York in fifth. At the footing of the list was Cairo, just below Kathmandu (second-lowest) and Algiers (third-lowest).

Massimiliano  Verde

Massimiliano Verde is a journalist at Parliament News, He is covering Society and Culture News. Boasting a Master's Degree in Political Science, stands as a prominent figure in the Italian cultural landscape. His presidency of the Neapolitan Academy, a scientifically and sociolinguistically renowned group, attests to his relentless dedication to safeguarding and promoting Neapolitan language and culture. His activism and profound expertise have propelled him into the role of interlocutor for UNESCO as part of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032), a prestigious acknowledgment highlighting the significance of his efforts in preserving the linguistic and cultural diversity of our planet.

Verde's fervent passion for the history and culture of Southern Italy has driven him to immerse himself in research, resulting in numerous essays and articles that delve into the peculiarities and beauties of the region. His commitment extends beyond academia, manifesting in ongoing dissemination activities aimed at acquainting the general public with the rich cultural heritage of the South. His endeavors transcend national boundaries, as evidenced by his participation in international conferences and collaboration with various foreign institutions, rendering him an ambassador of Southern culture on the global stage and fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding.