Health education program for prevention of coronary artery disease in primary health care in Saudi Arabia -

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is a public health concern that is increasing globally; it is a main source of illness and deaths in countries of Africa and the Middle East. In particular ischemic or coronary artery diseases (CAD) cause globally high rates of mortality and morbidity in both genders. Although there is a movement towards a decrease in morbidity in developed countries, the incidence of cardiovascular diseases is likely to increase in developing countries.One key aspect to reduce CAD mortality and morbidity is reduction in cardiovascular risk factors. Some preliminary work on cardiovascular primary prevention is being done, but is not comprehensive to have significant impact.In spite of current advances in diagnostic and treatment modalities, cardiovascular diseases remain the leading causes of mortality worldwide. The most recent data about deaths related to coronary artery disease in Saudi Arabia showed that 23.98percent of overall deaths are due to CVD; this percentage ranks Saudi Arabia as number 32 in the world.The purpose of this project is to develop the material needed for health education targeting clients at primary health care centers and aiming to reduce their risk factors of cardiovascular disease.The educational program target clients visiting primary health care centers as this population gets its first contact with the health system at the centers. The program includes assessment of cardiovascular risk and an educational component. The educational component involves using a video already available in Saudi Arabia that addresses heart disease and risk reduction. In addition, two educational sessions using power point presentations were developed. Moreover, a booklet providing information about risk factors of heart disease and measures to reduce them was produced. A plan for implementation and evaluation of the program is proposed.In order for this program to succeed, it is recommended to increase the number of Bachelor prepared nurses in the centers and train them on the delivery of this program by