Awareness of risk factors for ischemic heart disease in adults aged 40-64 years in the Czech Republic - a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Introduction and objective: Worldwide, Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) is the most frequent cause of death, particularly in advanced countries. The aim of this study is to describe the level of awareness among the Czech population aged 40-64 years regarding the prevention of IHD risk factors, and their perception of the educational role of nurses.

Material and methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional research design was used for this study. The sample, selected by a quota choice representative for the Czech Republic, based on regions, gender, and age, comprised 1,391 respondents - 700 (50.3%) men and 691 (49.7%) women.

Results: 66.9% of respondents reported being aware of the risk factors for heart disease. A significant correlation was identified between gender and the knowledge of risk factors of heart diseases (<0.05), risk factors of high cholesterol (0.05), coffee (<0.05), and contraception (<0.001). A significant correlation was identified between gender and the source of one's health information (p< 0.01). In respondents taking part in regular physical examinations, a significant correlation was identified concerning the opinions of obesity (< 0.001), hypertension (< 0.01), heredity < 0.001, immunity disorders < 0.05, high cholesterol levels < 0.01, coffee < 0.05, hormonal contraception < 0.001, smoking < 0.001, stress < 0.001, and diabetes < 0.01 as risk factors of heart disease. No significant differences were found in the health literacy of individual groups classified by socio-demographic features. The population aged 40-64 was homogeneous.

Conclusions: Although awareness of the main risk factors for coronary heart disease is sufficient among people aged 40-64, the key step remains translating knowledge into practical skills. Nurses should be more involved in educating patients about risk factors for IHD.