Engaging families with a premature family history of heart disease : a primary prevention study for coronary heart disease

This thesis focuses upon a preventative approach for people with a familial history of premature coronary heart disease. The research study had two aims; firstly to understand the experience of individuals when their parent or sibling had been diagnosed with heart disease; secondly to develop and evaluate a primary prevention health promotion programme for these people. The thesis provides unique insight into their personal experiences of living with this familial diagnosis and gives details of how this population can be identified and involved successfully in a health promotion programme. The study was conducted in a district general hospital; 28 people were recruited of whom 20 participants completed the two year study. Narrative interviews were conducted at the beginning and end of the study, providing insight into people's personal experience. Salutogenesis is the theoretical framework in which the narratives are discussed; from these health resources are identified which can enhance people's progress and maintenance for a healthy lifestyle. The health promotion programme has established, developed and evaluated a nurse- led and doctor supported primary prevention strategy. Education and support was provided in the programme for individuals and families. The participants' physical and behavioural changes were reviewed six monthly, for two years. People are aware of risk factors associated with heart disease, but still seek professional support and advice in relation to their own lifestyle and behaviour. Individual lifestyle changes were achieved by most participants, which translated into significant findings for blood pressure and alcohol consumption; positive changes were seen in physical activity, smoking, diet and psychosocial stress. There were no improvements in lipid profiles. The need for a preventative approach in health care, which includes primordial and primary prevention for heart disease, is discussed. The issues in this thesis are reflective upon current government focus to develop preventative health services which actively engage with people as integral to this process. The thesis discusses coronary heart disease, the roles of prevention and health promotion, and identifies health resources for people at high-risk of future cardiovascular problems.