Dear Secretary of State,

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the UK's biggest health challenges: it is a leading cause of death, disability and health inequalities, and a source of huge pressure on the NHS and the economy. Yet despite its impact, CVD is not currently recognised within the Government's Life Sciences Healthcare Goals programme.

The Government has boldly committed to reduce premature deaths from heart attack and stroke by 25% within a decade, and the recent CVD Modern Service Framework provides a clear roadmap towards this for the NHS in England.

But achieving this goal is also dependent on further advances in cardiovascular research and innovation. That’s why we need you to put cardiovascular research in the spotlight.

We have seen what is possible when the Government backs a health challenge with clear support and focus. Dedicated research programmes for other disease areas have helped drive partnerships, new funding initiatives and investment in infrastructure. Cardiovascular research deserves the same level of ambition.

Making cardiovascular research a Government priority would focus the best minds around this great health challenge, helping to accelerate the development of lifesaving diagnostics, treatments and technologies. This would not only improve health outcomes for people affected by cardiovascular disease but also support the Government's wider ambitions for economic growth and a more sustainable NHS.

From the lightbulb moment to the lifesaving treatment, we urge you to give cardiovascular research the recognition and support it deserves. By supporting the full research pathway, and the talented researchers who make progress possible, you can help unlock future breakthroughs so more people can live with a healthier heart for longer.

Yours sincerely,

British Heart Foundation and our dedicated supporters.