Netherlands Launches Lifestyle Clinics to Combat Heart Disease

2025-09-01 bio

Amsterdam, Monday, 1 September 2025.
A new initiative in the Netherlands, starting September 1, 2025, focuses on lifestyle clinics to prevent heart disease, significantly reducing repeat procedures for atrial fibrillation by promoting healthy living.

Innovative Approach to Heart Disease Prevention

On September 1, 2025, the Netherlands launched an ambitious program focused on establishing lifestyle clinics aiming to combat heart disease. These clinics prioritize preventive care through lifestyle changes, significantly reducing the incidence of atrial fibrillation-related procedures by promoting healthier living habits. The initiative emphasizes the importance of weight management, blood pressure control, moderation in alcohol consumption, and addressing sleep apnea, which has been identified as an underestimated contributor to atrial fibrillation [1].

Key Players and Their Roles

This innovative program is spearheaded by the Catharina Hospital in collaboration with Philips and the Eindhoven University of Technology. The Catharina Hospital, under the leadership of Director Eva Wisse, is actively engaging with general practitioners and other healthcare providers to integrate lifestyle clinics into their standard practice [1]. Cardiologist Lukas Dekker, associated with the Eindhoven University of Technology, has conducted research showing that lifestyle coaching can reduce repeat atrial fibrillation procedures from 70% to 18% [1].

How the Lifestyle Clinics Operate

Lifestyle clinics operate by offering tailored coaching to patients, focusing on areas such as diet, exercise, and sleep. Patients receive guidance for up to six months before undergoing any medical procedures, which has proven effective in reducing the need for repeat interventions [1]. This model not only addresses immediate health concerns but also fosters a culture of wellness and proactive healthcare management within Dutch communities [1].

The Broader Impact

The lifestyle clinics are part of a broader strategy to address the expected rise in cardiovascular diseases in the Netherlands. With current figures indicating that 1.7 million Dutch citizens suffer from such conditions, and projections suggesting this could increase to 2.7 million, the need for effective preventive measures is critical [1]. The collaboration between medical institutions and technology firms like Philips highlights a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare innovation, aiming to reduce healthcare burdens through preventive care and the use of advanced technologies [1].

Bronnen

health innovation lifestyle prevention