Argyriou George
Introduction: The way of living associated with "western culture" - a diet rich in saturated fats and calories, smoking and sedentary life - plays an important role in the recurrence of coronary events in patients with diagnosed coronary artery disease. In many people, this way of living leads to changes of biochemical and pathophysiological characteristics, which increases the development of atherosclerosis and thrombotic complications. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of dietary and smoking habits in the health status of people who have suffered acute myocardial infarction. Material and Methods: The studied population consisted of 930 patients who had suffered acute myocardial infarction during the years 2000 to 2003. The research team used the records of hospitals for initial data collection. Four years after patientÃ?¢Ã?â?¬Ã?Ÿs discharge from hospital, through telephone follow-up, completed a special questionnaire referring to disease progression. Results: The mean age of patients who have not suffered a new cardiovascular event (Group A) within 4 years was 64 ± 12 years. The population appeared a new cardiovascular event (Group B) had an average age of 65 ± 11 years and patients who died (Group C) had a mean age 67 ± 12 years. (p = 0.031). 77% of group A were married, so was 75% in group B and 88% in group C (p = 0.044). 90% of group A followed healthy dietary habits after hospital discharge, so did 78% of group B and 92% of group C (p = 0.001). Half pack (½) of cigarettes on average per day declared they smoked all three groups. Group A and B smoked the specific number of packets for 34±12 years in average while Group C for 41±14 years in average, (p =0.051). Conclusions: The rehabilitation programs in patients after acute myocardial infarction with frequent follow up have a significant role in improving the quality of life and reducing the risk of a new ischemic event.
