Cardiodeleterious Theory of Cardiovascular Diseases (TEOCARDI–CVDs) as a Theoretical Proposal for Understanding and Application in Collective Health

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, despite substantial advances in preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies. Predominant explanatory models, largely centered on individual risk factors and clinically manifest events, have proven insufficient to capture the cumulative, silent, and socially determined nature of cardiovascular illness. Objective: To propose the Cardiodeleterious Theory of Cardiovascular Diseases (TEOCARDI – CVDs) as a complementary theoretical framework for an expanded understanding of cardiovascular diseases within the field of Collective Health. Methods: This is a theoretical essay of a conceptual and analytical nature, grounded in the articulation of critical and social epidemiology, population risk logic, complex systems thinking, and consolidated evidence from cardiovascular epidemiology. At this initial stage of theoretical development, the study does not yet involve the collection of empirical data. Theoretical Contributions: TEOCARDI – CVDs conceptualizes cardiovascular diseases as the final expression of a cumulative, progressive, and socially produced cardiodeleterious process unfolding across the life course. The theory integrates the concepts of population risk, social vulnerability, subclinical damage, and early prevention. It does not aim to replace clinical risk stratification models or evidence-based guidelines, but rather to complement them by offering a structural interpretation of cardiovascular risk trajectories. Conclusion: By emphasizing the centrality of subclinical damage and socially unequal cumulative exposures, TEOCARDI – CVDs contributes to the strengthening of population-based, intersectoral, and equity-oriented preventive strategies, expanding the debate on public policies, care organization, and the reduction of cardiovascular health inequalities within Collective Health.