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Non‐pharmacological modification of cardiac risk factors: part 1
Author(s) -
Eagles C. J.,
Gulati R.,
Martin U.
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
journal of clinical pharmacy and therapeutics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.622
H-Index - 73
eISSN - 1365-2710
pISSN - 0269-4727
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2710.1996.tb00023.x
Subject(s) - medicine , coronary heart disease , risk factor , blood pressure , disease , cigarette smoking , heart disease , aerobic exercise , life style , obesity , cardiology , physical therapy , environmental health
Summary Many factors influence whether a person will develop coronary heart disease. Genetic predisposition, gender and advanced age are recognized risk factors for the development of coronary heart disease over which we have little control. On the other hand, high serum cholesterol, cigarette smoking, high blood pressure, excessive body weight and long‐term physical inactivity are key risk factors over which we have considerable control. In many cases cardiac risk factors can be modified without resorting to pharmacological intervention. Current evidence suggests that individuals who follow a diet which is low in saturated fats and cholesterol, lose weight, stop cigarette smoking and take regular aerobic exercise will significantly reduce their risk of developing coronary heart disease. In addition, patients who already have evidence of coronary heart disease may improve their symptoms and prognosis by similar life‐style changes. In the first of two parts, we review the role of exercise in modifying cardiac risk factors.