Introduction:
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is estimated that approximately 17.9 million deaths occur annually due to CVDs, accounting for 31% of global mortality (World Health Organization, 2021). While several risk factors for CVDs have been identified, including genetics and physiological factors, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in the development and prevention of cardiovascular conditions. This observational research aims to investigate the impact of various lifestyle factors on cardiovascular health.
Methods:
A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 500 participants aged 30-60 years, who visited the cardiology outpatient department at a tertiary care hospital. Participants were selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data pertaining to lifestyle factors such as physical activity, dietary habits, smoking, alcohol intake, and stress levels were collected through self-report questionnaires and interviews.
Results:
The study revealed that physical activity levels significantly impacted cardiovascular health outcomes. Participants who engaged in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking or moderate-intensity exercise for at least 150 minutes per week, exhibited lower rates of obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Moreover, individuals who maintained an active lifestyle had reduced risk for coronary artery disease and suffered fewer myocardial infarctions.
Dietary habits also emerged as a crucial determinant of cardiovascular health. Participants who adhered to a balanced diet, comprising of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products, demonstrated lower cholesterol levels, decreased blood pressure readings, and healthier body mass index values. Conversely, those who consumed a diet rich in saturated fats, processed foods, and sugar had higher rates of obesity, hyperlipidemia, and metabolic syndrome markers.
The impact of tobacco smoking on cardiovascular health was evident in this study. Participants who were current smokers exhibited higher rates of hypertension, atherosclerosis, and CVD-related mortality. Additionally, smokers showed diminished exercise tolerance and increased risk of peripheral artery disease. Conversely, participants who had quit smoking for more than a year displayed improved cardiovascular parameters, suggesting the potential for reversal of adverse effects.
Alcohol intake was found to exert a mixed effect on cardiovascular health. Moderate alcohol consumption, defined as 1-2 drinks per day, was associated with a reduced risk of coronary artery disease, ischemic stroke, and heart failure. However, excessive alcohol consumption, defined as more than 3 drinks per day, was linked to higher incidence of hypertension, arrhythmias, and cardiomyopathy. It is important to note that the relationship between alcohol and cardiovascular health may be influenced by other confounding factors such as age, gender, and overall health status.
Psychosocial factors, particularly stress levels, also played a significant role in cardiovascular health outcomes. Participants who reported high levels of chronic stress had increased incidence of hypertension, arterial stiffness, and adverse cardiac events. Moreover, stress was associated with unhealthy coping mechanisms such as binge eating, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking, further exacerbating cardiovascular risks.
Conclusion:
This observational study highlights the critical role of lifestyle factors in cardiovascular health. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, smoking cessation, and appropriate alcohol intake were associated with positive cardiovascular outcomes. Conversely, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress were linked to increased risk of CVDs. These findings emphasize the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to prevent and manage cardiovascular diseases. Public health initiatives should focus on promoting physical activity, encouraging healthy dietary choices, offering smoking cessation programs, and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of stress on cardiovascular health.