ATHEROSCLEROSIS RISK FACTORS: CAN AMERICAN FAMILIES CHANGE THEIR DIETARY HABITS AND LIFE STYLE?

Abstract

Atherosclerosis risk factors include hypercholesterolemia, obesity, hypertension, limited exercise and smoking. To investigate the title question, we studied 199 middle class metropolitan families (715 people of whom 48% were children). Data were gathered concerning eating patterns, exercise, smoking, and family history. Seven hours of risk factor education were offered to participants. Six months later in 99 families (403 people) we obtained complete followup data concerning whether at risk subjects availed themselves of medical services. Our results (significant at p<.05) include decreases in meat (pork, beef, and lamb), eggs, butter, ice cream and salt intake. Poultry and fish intake increased. Changes include cooking fat switched from animal to vegetable source, milk switched from whole to skim, and cheese from yellow to white varieties. There was no significant change in smokers but numbers of cigarettes decreased. Fathers became involved in regular exercise programs, but mothers did not. The only change in family history was that fathers found hypercholesterolemic relatives. Patients at risk did not avail themselves to medical services. Objective data such as serum cholesterol, blood pressures, skinfold thickness and weight all decreased significantly.

We conclude that minor education endeavors can result in significant changes in living and dietary patterns in families.

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