The NHS has set out a new strategic framework for tackling heart disease and stroke, with the government outlining changes intended to reduce premature cardiovascular deaths across England.

The Cardiovascular Disease Modern Service Framework, updated on 2 October, sets out a long-term approach covering prevention, diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care for cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic conditions.

One major development highlighted in the framework is the wider NHS use of semaglutide (Wegovy) for people with established cardiovascular disease. More than one million people are expected to become eligible for the treatment under existing NICE recommendations.

Eligible patients include people with a BMI of 27 or above who have previously experienced a heart attack, stroke or severe complications from peripheral arterial disease. The treatment is intended to help reduce the risk of further cardiovascular events.

The framework places greater emphasis on identifying cardiovascular risks earlier and improving coordination between prevention, primary care and specialist services.

The government says the wider strategy is aimed at reducing premature deaths from heart disease and stroke, while strengthening how cardiovascular conditions are prevented and managed across the health service.

The changes come as cardiovascular disease remains a major focus for NHS prevention and treatment, with the new framework providing a national direction for services in England.