[Lifestyle and cardiovascular risk].
This paper describes the relation between lifestyle and cardiovascular risk globally and for each lifestyle risk factor. In 3 large studies (Interheart, HALE project and the Nurses' health study), four risk factors have been identified: smoking, diet, low level of exercise and low or no alcohol consumption. Prevention of atherosclerotic diseases can be obtained by smoking cessation, diet modifications aimed at lowering body weight and having a Mediterranean style diet, continuing lifelong physical activity such as walking more than two hours a week. Alcohol consumption, although related to lower risk, cannot be prescribed as a preventive action.
Castaigne
Alain
A
Service de cardiologie, hôpital Henri Mondor, 94010 Creteil Cedex. alain.castaigne@hmn.aphp.fr
Pouchain
Denis
D
D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style