[Life-habit intervention in a public institution]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Coronary heart disease is a leading global cause of death, with significant mortality and morbidity following acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
• Secondary prevention strategies are crucial for managing patients with established coronary artery disease.
• High rates of recurrent AMI and sudden death underscore the need for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a multidisciplinary intervention program aimed at modifying atherosclerosis risk factors within a public health system.
• To assess the impact of the program on patient lifestyle behaviors and clinical markers.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 513 patients with coronary artery disease, selected from 2,337 outpatients, participated in the study.
• The intervention involved educational lectures focused on risk factor control.
• Statistical analyses included paired t-tests, Wilcoxon's test, independent samples t-tests, Mann-Whitney test, ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis tests for pre- and post-intervention comparisons.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions were observed in cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, body mass index, Castelli indexes I and II, and waist circumference.
• Dietary adherence improved, with 72% of non-adherent patients adopting a healthier diet.
• Physical activity increased, with 71% of previously sedentary patients exercising regularly, and smoking cessation/reduction was noted in 60% of smokers.

Conclusions:

• The multiprofessional program proved effective in improving lifestyle habits among patients within the public health system.
• These findings support the implementation of similar programs for secondary prevention of coronary artery disease.
• The study highlights the successful application of public health system resources for cardiovascular risk management.