European Commission Proposes Free Screening for Cholesterol and Blood Pressure

The European Commission proposed a recommendation on Monday addressed to member states, encouraging regular checks of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, with particular attention to individuals at higher risk.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the European Union, claiming approximately 1.7 million lives annually and generating economic costs of over 282 billion euros. According to the Commission, up to 80% of these cases could be prevented by addressing risk factors such as hypertension, obesity, and high cholesterol.

"A large majority of premature cardiovascular diseases could be avoided if we identified risks earlier and acted sooner," said Health Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi at a press conference.

Currently, fewer than half of EU countries have cardiovascular screening programmes, and where they do exist, they operate differently from one country to another.

The "Safe Hearts" Plan

The proposal forms part of the "Safe Hearts" Plan, presented by the Commission in December 2025, which aims to reduce premature cardiovascular deaths by 25% by 2035. The plan includes broader access to screening, measures targeting vulnerable groups, and greater use of digital tools and artificial intelligence, under human oversight.

As part of the EU Screening Week, health organisations offered free check-ups open to all European citizens. Sophie Millar, EU Policy Advocacy Manager at the European Society of Cardiology, told Euronews Health: "We hope this initiative will help reduce inequalities."

Diabetes: frequently undetected

Blood sugar is one of the three values targeted by the checks, as diabetes frequently goes undiagnosed. The International Diabetes Federation estimates that in Europe, one in four people with diabetes is unaware they have the condition.

Maxence Prizzi, EU Policy and Advocacy Coordinator at the International Diabetes Federation – Europe, explained: "Diabetes is one of the primary causes of many other non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and kidney disease." He added: "Primary prevention starts with simple medical check-ups. It all begins with knowing your data and your health values, and this can save lives."

Check-ups recommended for healthy people too

Specialists emphasise that regular check-ups are important even for people who show no symptoms. Grace Bayams, a nurse who carried out tests in Brussels, said: "At a certain age, everyone should know their blood sugar, lipid, and cholesterol levels to find out whether they fall within normal ranges or not." Depending on the results, doctors may recommend lifestyle adjustments or treatments to maintain healthy values.

Physician Jack Smith added: "I think it is very important to raise awareness among people, so that they know there are certain things they can do to help prevent illness and that they can lead a healthier and happier life."