Lifestyle and risk factors in patients with myocardial ischemia

Abstract

Introduction: Miochardial ischemia (MI) is a health problem, which can be controlled through the modification of lifestyles and the reduction of risk factors.

Methods: We carried out a descriptive-transversal study in a random sample of 196 patients of 20 years of age or more with diagnosis of miochardial ischemia, who attended a third level hospital in Mexico City. Data were collected by applying the Lifestyles Inventory, created by the University of Berkeley.

Results: 56.5% were men and 43.5%, women; mean age was 57.3 ± 10.3 years; risk behaviors were physical condition, self-care, alcohol consumption, accidents, stress, environment and sexuality; 70% of patients had unhealthy lifestyles; the presence of these lifestyles was related to risk behaviors in physical condition, family history (r = 0.767), environment (r = 0.871) and sexuality (r = 0.754).

Conclusions: Five dimensions that were related to risk behaviors were identified and determined the presence of inappropriate lifestyles that can lead to conditions unfavorable to the health of these patients.