The influence of social support on cardiovascular health in families

The purpose of this qualitative study was to identify how social support in families can influence the health behaviors of multigenerational families already at risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Using a case study method, semistructured individual and family group interviews were conducted of 3 members of 10 families (N = 30) with known cardiovascular risk. Each family member represented a different generation. The index member was a senior or middle family member who had undergone coronary bypass surgery. A convenience sample was recruited from individuals having had coronary bypass surgery at a regional hospital in a rural area. Prior to group family interviews, each participant completed a behavior risk questionnaire to determine high or low risk of CVD. A subsample of 6 participants received individual interviews. A participant with high CVD risk and one with low CVD risk represented each generation. Themes generated from the family interviews formed the basis for the individual interview questions. All interviews were audiotaped and transcribed, and interviewer reflections were documented. Analysis consisted of coding, naming, and categorizing data according to conceptual patterns. The findings revealed examples of family social support that influenced cardiovascular health behaviors. Opportunities are identified as to when healthcare professionals can encourage positive social support and sustained changes in health behaviors in families already at risk for CVD.