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[Long-term result of a life style intervention group program]
E Thiis-Evensen1, G Hoff, O Johannesen
1Medisinsk avdeling, Telemark sentralsjukehus, Skien.
Summary
This study assessed long-term lifestyle changes in coronary heart disease patients. Lifestyle interventions improved cholesterol and physical activity, especially in those with existing heart disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Preventive Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Lifestyle modification programs are crucial for managing coronary heart disease (CHD) and its risk factors.
- Long-term adherence and effectiveness of these interventions require ongoing evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term impact of a lifestyle intervention program on individuals with CHD or at high risk.
- To evaluate changes in serum cholesterol, body weight, physical activity, and smoking status three years post-intervention.
Main Methods:
- A follow-up examination of 156 former participants in a lifestyle modification program.
- Data collection included serum cholesterol levels, body weight, self-reported physical activity, and smoking status.
- Analysis compared measurements at baseline, end of program, and a median of 3 years post-program.
Main Results:
- Serum cholesterol remained lower than pre-program levels, though slightly increased from program completion.
- Body weight showed no significant change from baseline.
- Self-reported physical activity increased in participants with established CHD, but not in those at high risk.
- A reduction in smokers was observed, but not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Lifestyle interventions demonstrate sustained benefits for CHD risk factors, particularly cholesterol and physical activity, in patients with established disease.
- Long-term maintenance of lifestyle changes may vary between individuals with established CHD and those at high risk.
- Further research is needed to enhance long-term adherence and smoking cessation within these programs.