The Effects of a Community‐Based Multi‐lifestyle Intervention on CV Health in Rural Populations

Abstract

The rate of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) mortality has decreased over the last few years. However, in rural areas, this reduction is less substantial compared to urban areas despite the effort to translate lifestyle intervention which was successful in urban areas. The purpose of this study is to use community‐based participatory research principles to conduct a pilot study to test the feasibility and acceptability of a lifestyle intervention in a rural community to improve CVD health.We assessed the feasibility and acceptability using retention and recruitment rate along with CV parameters i.e., Framingham risk score, 6‐min walk test, reactive hyperemia index, carotid thickness, and arterial stiffness, pre and post 10 week intervention.10 patients with CVD were screened with their family member, yielding 20 individuals screened (recruitment rate 59%). 17 patients were enrolled and retained (retention rate 100%). The 6‐min walk distance significantly (p=0.01) increased (1536±53 to 1651±55) with a tendency of improved HR and diastolic function represented by sub‐endocardial viability ratio after 10 wks intervention, although these parameters did not reach statistical significance. In contrast, there were no significant changes in the other CVD parameters. These findings provide valuable evidence to conduct lifestyle intervention for CVD patients in rural areas.