OTTAWA - The Conference Board says the country could save a cumulative $76 billion between now and 2020 if it meets even some of the targets of a proposed health strategy.
The board analysed the potential savings if the health plan is implemented and reduces the incidence of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure.
It looked at both direct costs - hospital stays, drugs and doctors - as well as lost income from premature deaths or chronic illness.
The heart health strategy would promote healthier living - less smoking, more exercise, better diet - to reduce some of the underlying causes of stroke and heart disease.
The health strategy was proposed a year ago by an alliance of groups including the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Its proponents hope the March 4 federal budget will include financing for the strategy.
