Behaviour after cardiosurgery

Aim of this study was to estimate behavioral changes after cardiac surgery (CS). A questionnaire was sent by mail to 74 women and 122 men during May 2004 and the answers were collected by phone. For statistical analysis, the chi2-test was used. A common unhealthy habits before CS were inappropriate diet (80% of all responders), addictions to alcohol (62%) and nicotine (54%). Significantly fewer patients after CS continue with fatty diet (chi2 = 39.069; p < 0.001), smoking (chi2 = 90.286; p < 0.001) and alcohol drinking habits (chi2 = 60.667; p < 0.001). A significant worsening of sexual life (chi2 = 91.533; p < 0.001) and significantly less negative influence of weather changes (chi2 = 20.821; p < 0.001) was found after CS. Men drink more (chi2 = 16.299; p < 0.001) and smoke more (chi2 = 19.635; p < 0.001), have better sexual life (chi2 = 17.317; p < 0.001), fewer sleeping disorders (chi2 = 17.334; p < 0.001) and better oral health (chi2 = 38.632; p < 0.001) than women. These results can be useful for setting up preventive measures for CVD.