[Guidelines for the evaluation and management of chronic heart failure].

The Japanese Circulation Society have long been involved in the development of practice guidelines designed to assist physicians in the management of chronic heart failure. Importantly, as our population ages, the incidence of chronic heart failure and its mortality rate will continue to increase. Furthermore, recent advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of chronic heart failure and new developments in the therapy of this disorder have greatly expanded the information base which to make decisions. The guidelines for the evaluation and management of chronic heart failure were developed by cardiovascular specialists and were based primarily on a comprehensive review of published reports. Furthermore, these guidelines are based on the assumption that the resources necessary to provide this care readily available.