Clinical Nutrition University. The place of nutrition in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs)

Abstract

Summary CVDs, including coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke, currently represent the major causes of mortality and morbidity all over the world. In Europe, CVDs are responsible for 43% of deaths in men and 55% in women and for 30% of all deaths before the age of 65 years. CVD burden could be substantially reduced by early diagnosis and appropriate measures, since atherosclerotic lesions may be substantially improved in response to measures taken. CVD results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors; some factors vary between different ethnic groups. Plasma lipid profile is an important, but certainly not the only, risk factor for CVD. Prevention includes healthy lifestyle: no smoking, weight control, physical activity, and healthy dietary intake; control of blood pressure, plasma glucose, and inflammation is important. The Mediterranean diet is a good example of healthy dietary pattern. Components of the Mediterranean diet may be adapted to nutritional habits of different countries, taking into account differences of taste and culture. The benefits of a healthy lifestyle exceed, but are additive to, those of medical treatment.