Secondary Prevention of Acute Coronary Syndrome. Socio-economic and Lifestyle Determinants: A Literature Review

Although cardiovascular disease mortality rates seem to decline, especially among middle-aged people in developed countries, the prevalence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) increases, representing the most common cause of morbidity in both developed and developing countries and generating large economic burden. It is estimated that one fifth of the ACS patients die suddenly and half of them belong to a fast growing popula- tion age-group, i.e., those between 70 and .80 years. A substantial number of these deaths has been attributed to various lifestyles, modifiable factors; therefore, it can be prevented. However, factors such as dietary habits and behaviours, physical activity, life stress and smoking habits, although thoroughly discussed, are not well understood and appreciated in the spectrum of secondary ACS prevention. The latter deserves further attention under the prism of socio-economic status that has changed dramatically in the last years in some populations. The aim of this review was to discuss the role of lifestyle factors on secondary ACS prevention under the prism of individual's socio-economic status. Based on the retrieved information it was revealed that there is vast evidence that secondary prevention of cardiovascular events cannot be accomplished simply through medical treatment, but it requires a multifaceted approach incorporating lifestyle modifications, too. Therefore, public health policy endeavours should be directed towards multifocal strategies, i.e., to motivate and support cardiac patients to consistently follow treatment regimens and to establish more effective and efficient community lifestyle interventions.