# Cardiovascular disease mortality in South America > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cardiovascular-disease-mortality-in-south-america > Updated: 2026-09-29T16:20:43.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Cardiovascular diseases represent a major cause of mortality across several South American nations. In Ecuador, ischemic heart diseases were identified as the primary cause of death in 2024, with 14,471 fatalities recorded by the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC). In Chile, circulatory system diseases account for approximately 30% of deaths. Medical experts have noted that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women, often linked to biological shifts such as menopause. In Argentina, circulatory system diseases caused 105,130 deaths in 2024, representing 30.3% of all defined deaths. This figure includes 26,404 deaths from heart failure and 22,841 from ischemic heart disease. Medical specialists in these regions emphasize that while some risk factors are non-modifiable, many deaths are preventable through lifestyle interventions, including increased physical activity, improved diet, stress management, and smoking cessation. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-29: Cardiovascular diseases cause approximately 30% of deaths in Argentina and Chile On World Heart Day, health experts in Argentina and Chile report that cardiovascular diseases account for roughly 30% of deaths in both countries, emphasizing prevention through lifestyle changes. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cardiovascular-diseases-cause-approximately-30-of-deaths-in-argentina-and-chile ### 2026-09-26: Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death in Ecuador and Chile Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death in Ecuador and Chile. Experts urge early prevention and highlight increased risks for women following menopause due to hormonal changes. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cardiovascular-disease-remains-a-leading-cause-of-death-in-ecuador-and-chile --- Cite as: Cardiovascular disease mortality in South America. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cardiovascular-disease-mortality-in-south-america