UAE heart doctors have called for a long-term nationwide plan to tackle cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is the leading cause of mortality in the country. CVD accounts for 28.7 per cent of all deaths, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Local cardiology experts say a long-term nationwide plan to tackle CVD similar to those introduced in some western countries would lead to a dramatic reduction in mortality from heart disease and stroke. The plan would need to be fully comprehensive taking into account specific regional risk factors and cultural issues. Dr Wael Al Mahmeed, Immediate Past President of the Emirates Cardiology Society and a member of the 2012 World Congress of Cardiology Management Committee (CMC), said: \"Cardiovascular disease needs to be put at the top of the UAE health agenda. from / Gulf News