Abstract

The effect of a multi-frontal intervention programme on coronary risk grading and psychological state was evaluated in men over 30 years (N = 173) drawn from 300 consecutive patients attending a preventive medicine clinic. Subjectsunderwent a comprehensive assessment for recognised coronary risk factors, this included psychological assessment and a monitored bicycle ergometer test (minimum 85 predicted maximal heart rate). A quantified coronary risk gradingwas derived and subjects were placed on a programme of exercise, appropriate diets, and if indicated, a psychological programme. Overall there was a 10 (N = 18) incidence of positive exercise tests (PEx); of these 39 (N = 7) wereasymptomatic and clinically free of coronary heart disease. On review at 12 months (N = 32, including 5 with PEx) there was significant improvement in weight, predicted maximum oxygen uptake, coronary risk grading, and inanxietyand mood states. Those subjects with the highest anxiety and poorest mood state who also underwent a psychological programme showed the greatest change in psychological state. Results indicate the need for comprehensive assessmentof high risk coronary groups and that a soundly based intervention programme can bring about a significant beneficial change in 12 months. Verf.-Referat