[Nutrition-related risk factors in the elderly]

In industrialized countries life expectancy in the elderly is decreased mainly by degenerative cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Nutrition, especially excessive intake of calories, unbalanced diets as well as abuse of alcohol and nicotine play an important role in cardiovascular mortality and morbidity just as these factors do in the pathogenesis of certain types of cancer. The National Health Survey 1984/86 in the FRG offers data on the prevalence of such risk factors as elevated body weight, elevated blood pressure, hypercholesterolaemia, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption in different age groups. This knowledge provides the basis of modern primary health care and health education in order to limit diseases caused by unhealthy nutrition. In this respect the countrywide integrated programme for action called "7 against 7" is not just an important part of primary health care carried out by general practitioners but also an effective instrument in the fight against civilization diseases.