Authors

  1. Jones, Jennifer L. Physiotherapy Co-ordinator, MSc, SRP

Article Content

Objectives:

EuroAction is a European Society of Cardiology cluster randomised controlled trial of a nurse-led multi-disciplinary preventive cardiology programme which aims to manage coronary patients and their families to the European lifestyle, risk factor and therapeutic targets for CVD prevention.

 

Methods:

In each of six European countries, one pair of matched hospitals was randomised to intervention or usual care. All patients and partners were invited to attend the 16 week comprehensive risk factor and lifestyle management programme. Measurement tools included breath carbon monoxide, a food habit questionnaire, macronutrient dietary analysis, 7-day physical activity recall, pedometer and incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT).

 

Results:

1060 (67%) patients and 637 (77%) partners attended the initial assessment and 895 (84%) patients and 438 (69%) partners the 16 week assessment. Smoking cessation in those either smoking at the time of the initial assessment or prior to the patient's cardiac event was observed at 16 weeks in 58% of patients and 20% of partners. Relapse occurred in 16% patients (5% partners) and 26% patients (75% partners) continued to smoke. Significant increases were observed in the proportions achieving dietary and physical activity targets (Table).

  
Table Achievement of... - Click to enlarge in new windowTable: Achievement of Dietary and Physical Activity Targets

Conclusions:

The majority of coronary patients and their families were recruited and completed the EuroAction programme. Families succeeded in stopping smoking, improved their diets and activity levels, which will reduce their risk of further cardiovascular disease.