NONPHARMACOLOGICAL MODIFICATION OF CARDIAC RISK-FACTORS .1.

Many factors influence whether a person will develop coronary heart di sease. Genetic predisposition, gender and advanced age are recognized risk factors for the development of coronary heart disease over which we have little control. On the other hand, high serum cholesterol, cig arette smoking, high blood pressure, excessive body weight and long-te rm physical inactivity are key risk factors over which we have conside rable control. In many cases cardiac risk factors can be modified with out resorting to pharmacological intervention. Current evidence sugges ts that individuals who follow a diet which is low in saturated fats a nd cholesterol, lose weight, stop cigarette smoking and take regular a erobic exercise will significantly reduce their risk of developing cor onary heart disease. In addition, patients who already have evidence o f coronary heart disease may improve their symptoms and prognosis by s imilar life-style changes. In the first of two parts, we review the ro le of exercise in modifying cardiac risk factors.