Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels, which includes coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral artery disease. It is currently the leading cause of death worldwide. Currently, there is paucity in the available epidemiologic data of CVD in Southeast Asia (SEA).

To determine the prevalence, mortality rate, and associated risk factors of CVD (specifically ischemic heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease) among adult populations in SEA.

A systematic review of published articles between 2015 and 2020 was conducted. The authors also searched the World Health Organization database and publicly available health department websites of Southeast Asian countries.

The overall prevalence of CVDs in SEA is 5.48%. Specifically, the prevalence of ischemic heart disease is 1.54% and is highest in Thailand (2.54%). Ischemic stroke has a prevalence of 1.03% and is highest in Indonesia (1.97%). Prevalence of peripheral artery disease is 1.36% and is also highest in Thailand (1.92%). Mortality rate from CVD in SEA is 13.41%. Hypercholesterolemia, smoking, and hypertension are the most common risk factors, with prevalence of 41.2%, 21.1%, and 20.9%, respectively.

The prevalence and mortality rate of CVD in SEA remain high and are associated with high prevalence of underlying risk factors. Interventions should be strengthened to improve the overall picture in the region. Collaborative efforts among Southeast Asian countries are essential not only in generating comparative epidemiologic data but also in sharing best practices in lowering CVD mortality and morbidity.