Cornwall GP practices cutting heart disease risk in deprived communities
GP practices across Cornwall are taking proactive steps to tackle cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the county’s most deprived areas, aiming to prevent life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks and strokes before they happen.
Nine GP practices are currently participating in the project, targeting over 1,800 patients identified as being at high risk of CVD. The initiative focuses on early detection and intervention, better case management, and optimised treatment of high blood pressure and cholesterol, two of the biggest contributors to premature death and chronic illness in the UK.
The project is centred on proactive rather than reactive care, with clinicians using population health data and innovative risk assessment tools to prioritise patients in greatest need. It builds on the success of the 2023/24 Innovation for Healthcare Inequalities Programme (InHIP) and is designed specifically for Cornwall’s ‘Deep End’ practices, those serving communities with the highest level of deprivation.
By identifying at-risk individuals earlier, the approach not only improves outcomes for patients but is expected to reduce demand on hospitals and emergency services.
CVD is a leading cause of health inequality in the UK, responsible for around 20% of the life expectancy gap between the richest and poorest communities. Addressing this disparity is a key goal of the programme.
The initiative is being led by Health Innovation South West, with clinical leadership and funding for the project provided by NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly. Cornwall Council is also supporting the project, working closely with local GP practices and Health Innovation South West to ensure smooth implementation.
Gareth Walsh, Public Health Practitioner at Cornwall Council, said: “Public Health is pleased to be collaborating on this pilot project with Health Innovation South West, Cornwall’s Integrated Care Board and primary care to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease among some of the most vulnerable people in Cornwall. Health Innovation South West have been instrumental in leading this work and engaging stakeholders to deliver the project.”
An evaluation of the project by Health Innovation South West is underway and will be completed by October 2025. NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly will consider expanding the programme to more practices in 2026–27. The outcomes could also help shape future CVD prevention strategies across the South West and beyond.
By intervening early and prioritising patients most at risk, this initiative aims to transform how cardiovascular disease is managed, ultimately saving lives in some of Cornwall’s most underserved communities.
