Habits for a Healthy Heart - Epidemiological studies on diet and lifestyle factors across diverse subgroups of patients with cardiovascular disease

Summary

The number of people living with cardiovascular disease has been increasing for years. Since these patients have a higher risk of a second heart attack or premature death, it is important to regulate risk factors as effectively as possible. In healthcare practice, this is primarily achieved through medication, but diet and other lifestyle factors could also play a significant role. Furthermore, every patient with cardiovascular disease is different. We investigated whether lifestyle recommendations should be tailored more specifically based on factors such as gender, comorbidities, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle habits.

This research shows that healthy habits, such as eating according to dietary guidelines, engaging in sufficient physical activity, moderate alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy body weight, are essential for preventing recurrent heart attacks or premature death, alongside medication use. Moreover, it is important to consider gender and any other medical conditions when providing lifestyle advice.