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Preventing chronic disease risk factors: rationale and feasibility
Courtney O Jordan1, Megan Slater, Thomas E Kottke
1Department of Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
|November 13, 2008
Summary
Effective interventions exist to prevent chronic disease risk factors like inactivity, poor nutrition, and smoking. Population-wide programs are justified to reduce disease rates and healthcare costs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Preventive Medicine
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Chronic diseases are a leading cause of mortality, morbidity, and disability in developed nations.
- Four primary preventable risk factors include physical inactivity, poor nutrition, smoking, and hazardous drinking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the existence of effective interventions for chronic disease risk factor prevention.
- To evaluate the evidence supporting population-wide implementation of these interventions.
Main Methods:
- Literature search for meta-analyses and systematic reviews.
- Analysis of trials testing interventions for physical activity, nutrition, smoking cessation, and reduced alcohol consumption.
Main Results:
- Tailored interventions (face-to-face, phone, computer-based) effectively promote behavioral change.
- Computer-based health assessments are effective for behavior identification and intervention delivery.
- Some programs demonstrate reduced healthcare costs.
Conclusions:
- Investments in chronic disease risk factor prevention programs are warranted.
- Widespread implementation can significantly impact chronic disease incidence and healthcare expenditures.
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