The influence of cultural and social factors on healthy lifestyle of Arabic women

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally. Similar to other Western and Gulf countries, the incidence of cardiovascular disease and coronary artery diseases such as acute myocardial infarction is rising rapidly in Qatar. Diabetes mellitus, smoking, and hypertension are the most common risk factors causing acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and stroke. Additionally, obesity resulting from physical inactivity and unhealthy diet can lead to metabolic changes and raise the risk of heart diseases. Studies show that these health problems can be prevented and/or controlled by modifying lifestyle risk behaviours related to physical activity, diet, and smoking habits. The ultimate goal of this study was to find ways to effectively promote cardiovascular/coronary artery disease prevention and management activities among Qatari women by exploring factors affecting the ways in which Qatari women (citizen and resident Arabic women) participate in physical activities, healthy diet and smoking. An exploratory qualitative research approach using a semi-structured questionnaire consisting of open-ended questions was used in this study. Study participants included 50 Qatari women, 30 years of age and over, having a confirmed diagnosis of coronary vascular disease /coronary artery diseases. Results showed that socio-cultural factors play a key role in Qatari women’s decisions to participate in healthy lifestyles. Counselling and guidance for patients by health care providers, especially physicians, regarding smoking cessation, weight loss, and exercise should be key interventions to modify lifestyle behaviors among cardiac patients.