The family heart dietary intervention program: Community response and characteristics of joining and nonjoining families

摘要: A random sample of 501 eligible families was selected from a designated neighborhood in Portland, Oregon, and given the opportunity to join 5-year intervention program promoting low-fat low-cholesterol eating pattern designed reduce risk for coronary heart disease. Participation entailed three baseline assessments clinical, dietary, psychological indices, periodic follow-up measurements, monthly small group meetings led by psychologists nutritionists. prior home health survey allowed comparisons respondents joining nonjoining terms reported status, beliefs, locus control, knowledge about nutrition, demographic characteristics. Almost half (47%) all invited agreed this long-term nutrition completed necessary assessments. Factors discriminating joiners nonjoiners were not generally consistent with belief model preventive behavior. Joiners similar perceived susceptibility disease, family histories, reports elevated plasma cholesterol levels family. However, hypertensive members less likely disease prevention program. Positive predictors participation included higher occupational greater more internal that there are few barriers preventing adoption healthier pattern. These findings indicate is widespread community interest optimal they also provide suggestions as what motivates general public take actions.