6 May 2026

Know Your Numbers: The Importance of Health Checks in the Safe Hearts Plan

• On May 6, the European Diabetes Forum (EUDF) organised a webinar to discuss the EU Safe Hearts Plan’s flagship initiative, the EU Protocol on Health Checks, set to launch by the end of 2026.

  
  Bringing together experts from academia, clinical practice, and policy, the session explored key topics, including the importance of early detection in diabetes and cardiometabolic conditions, the development of protocol for health checks, and integrated screening strategies across EU Member States. 

• Prof. Tsvetalina Tankova set the scene by highlighting why early detection is critical in diabetes care – and how timely diagnosis can reduce complications and improve lives. Nikos Manaras followed with key insights into the policy landscape and what to expect from the upcoming EU Protocol. 
• Dr. Waqas Tahir presented the proposal for joint health checks from the cardio-metabolic-renal community, sharing practical recommendations for implementation across EU Member States – including integration into primary care and age-specific approaches. 
• Lastly, Prof. Carine de Beaufort addressed the importance of childhood screening, emphasising the importance of early detection of type 1 diabetes to improve long-term outcomes.