Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death and are often linked to atherosclerosis.
Risk factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, high blood pressure, and cholesterol play a central role, according to a press release from VIA at Umeå University in Sweden.
Although these diseases can often be prevented, many people find it difficult to relate to their personal risk.
Numbers and written information are not always sufficient to create understanding.
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Ultrasound images of blood vessels can help reveal early signs of atherosclerosis before symptoms appear. When these images are shown to patients, the risk becomes more tangible.
A new study from Sweden has examined this in two groups of people.
New study from Sweden
A new study published in European Heart Journal Open included approximately 3,500 people aged 40 to 60 in Sweden.
Participants were divided into two groups with different types of information.
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One group was shown images of their blood vessels, received information about their risk, and participated in discussions with healthcare professionals. Their doctors also had access to the results.
The other group did not initially have access to this information and instead followed standard care in the healthcare system.
Results over time
After one and three years, the group that received images and consultations had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and showed better progress in several health factors.
After six years, the other group had caught up after also being shown images and participating in discussions.
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The study shows that it is particularly the combination of visual images and dialogue that, over time, can encourage more people to change their lifestyle and adhere to treatment.
Sources: VIA and European Heart Journal Open.
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