[The Swedish model of Health dialogues - a systematic review].

Abstract

Lifestyle habits are key determinants for premature death. The Swedish model of health dialogues, which has been developed since 1985, aims to promote a healthy lifestyle by inviting everybody in specific age groups to primary care for health dialogues combined with community-oriented efforts. In the first systematic review of the model, seven studies were identified, all with a control/reference group and follow-up of at least one year. GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) was used to assess the quality of evidence. Results showed that the model reduced premature all-cause and cardiovascular mortality (moderate evidence/+++), reduced blood pressure, cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, waist size and BMI (moderate/low evidence) and improved dietary habits (moderate evidence/+++). Health benefits were greater when health dialogues were combined with community-oriented efforts.