Lifestyle changes for cardiometabolic health: Planting the seeds for long-term benefit.

With nearly three-quarters of global deaths attributed to lifestyle-associated diseases, effective lifestyle modifications are more urgent than ever. The American Heart Association's framework for cardiovascular health has evolved significantly, transitioning from 'Life's Simple 7' to 'Life's Essential 8' with the incorporation of sleep, and further to 'Life's Essential 9' by adding mental health as a key component. Despite these advancements, recent evidence reveals a persistently low prevalence of ideal cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health behaviors across populations. These findings highlight the critical gap in addressing modifiable lifestyle and psychosocial factors. To reduce the global disease burden, public health strategies must prioritize comprehensive interventions that encompass physical, neurological, and mental well-being.