Introduction and objectives of the meeting
Despite recent improvements, cardiovascular disease
(CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide. In
England and Wales, CVD currently accounts for some
37% of deaths. According to the World Health Organization
(WHO), up to 80% of these cases could be
avoided by improving diets, increasing physical activity
and smoking cessation. It is therefore important to identify
the types of diet, as well as the contribution of
specific foods (including functional foods), that can help
to reduce the risk of CVD and its progression.