Abstract
Background. Islands in the Mediterranean basin share particular habits and traditions and greater life expectancy than other European regions. In this paper, particular interest has been given to the effect of the Mediterranean diet, as well as nutritional services on CVD risk, on Mediterranean islands. Methods. Published results from observational studies were retrieved from electronic databases (Pubmed and Scopus) and summarized. Results. Prevalence of CVD risk factors is increased. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was moderate, even among the elderly participants. Furthermore, the presence of a dietician was associated with higher adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern and consequently lowers CVD risk. Conclusion. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet is reduced, while the prevalence of CVD risk factors is increasing at alarming rates. Public health nutrition policy has the opportunity to improve the health and quality of life of people living in isolated insular areas of the Mediterranean basin.
Highlights
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the proportion of people over the age of 60 is growing faster than any other age group [1]
This paper focuses on studies that investigated food habits on CVD risk factors, in middle-aged, and elderly populations living at the Mediterranean islands
Computer searches used combinations of keywords related to the cardiovascular disease, middle-aged and elderly populations, islands of the Mediterranean area and diet, nutrition or lifestyle habits
Summary
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the proportion of people over the age of 60 is growing faster than any other age group [1]. The older population, over 80 years of age, is the fastest growing portion of the population [2] Due to these changes, the global population pyramid (Figure 1) is undertaking a shift—from pyramid to cube—as the proportion of young adults’ declines and the proportion of older people increases [3]. A variety of researchers have started to focus their attention on elders This change in outlook has come about since people are living longer, and the older population is rapidly increasing and medical expenditure is rising with the onset of several major chronic diseases [4]. Prevalence of CVD risk factors is increased. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet is reduced, while the prevalence of CVD risk factors is increasing at alarming rates. Public health nutrition policy has the opportunity to improve the health and quality of life of people living in isolated insular areas of the Mediterranean basin
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