Article

Patients with coronary heart disease often suffer from an impaired
health-related quality of life (HRQoL). A healthier lifestyle not only extends
individuals' lengths of life but might also improve their HRQoL. The aim of this
study was to explore the relation between self-reported lifestyle changes and
HRQoL in European coronary patients. METHODS: Data on 8745 coronary patients,
from 22 countries, participating in the EUROASPIRE III survey (2006-2007) were
used. These patients hospitalized for coronary artery bypass graft, percutaneous
coronary intervention, acute myocardial infarction, or myocardial ischaemia were
interviewed and examined at least 6 months and no later than 3 years after their
hospital admission to gather information on their HRQoL, self-reported lifestyle
changes, and risk factors. RESULTS: Significantly better HRQoL scores were found
in ex-smokers compared to current smokers. Patients who made an attempt to
increase their physical activity level had a better HRQoL compared to those who
had not made an attempt. Furthermore dietary changes were associated with HRQoL,
with better outcomes in patients who tried to reduce fat and salt intake and
increase fish, fruit, and vegetable intake. The intention to change behaviour was
not associated with HRQoL. CONCLUSIONS: Better HRQoL scores were found in those
coronary patients who adopted a healthier lifestyle. The actual lifestyle changes
- smoking cessation, increasing physical activity, and adopting a healthy diet -
and not the intention to change are associated with better HRQoL outcomes.
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Langue : ANGLAIS