RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Behavioural prevention of ischemic heart disease
JF Canadian Medical Association Journal
JO CMAJ
FD Canadian Medical Association
SP 599
OP 604
VO 119
IS 6
A1 L. M. Hartman
YR 1978
UL http://www.cmaj.ca/content/119/6/599.abstract
AB Heart disease continues to be a major cause of disablement and death in Canada. Elevated serum cholesterol concentrations, hypertension and cigarette smoking are among the standard risk factors associated with ischemic heart disease. Research attention has also been directed at the role of behavioural factors in the development of atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. Experimental findings support a conceptual approach to the interplay of psychologic stress, the type A "coronary"-prone behaviour pattern and pathophysiologic mechanisms that have been implicated in the development of coronary artery disease. It is concluded that type A behaviour and stress contribute substantially to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. However, assessment of the manner in which these two variables influence the pathophysiology of ischemic heart disease requires further research, with systematic examination of physiologic and biochemical processes. Potential strategies for modifying type A behaviour are reviewed. However, unequivocal support for the preventive efficacy of behavioural approaches must await future research.