Home > Review Articles > Did it fall or was it pushed? The contribution of trends in established risk factors to the decline in premature coronary heart disease mortality in New Zealand

Did it fall or was it pushed? The contribution of trends in established risk factors to the decline in premature coronary heart disease mortality in New Zealand

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From Māori Health Review Issue 14
Authors:
  • Tobias M et al
Summary:

Risk factor prevalence data by 10-year age group (35-64 years) and sex was examined from six national or Auckland regional health surveys and three population censuses to estimate the contribution of trends in three risk factors – systolic blood pressure (SBP), total blood cholesterol (TBC) and cigarette smoking – to the decline in premature coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality in New Zealand from 1980–2004. Approximately 80% (73% for males, 87% for females) of the decline in premature CHD mortality from 1980 to 2004 is estimated to have resulted from the joint trends in population SBP and TBC distributions and smoking prevalence. Overall, approximately 42%, 36% and 22% of the joint risk factor effect was contributed by trends in SBP, TBC and smoking respectively.

Comment:
Useful information for primary care services and/ or PHOs. The study showed that ‘averages’ for readily available measures such as BP, cholesterol levels and smoking rates declined over the 24-year period and the decline was associated with reduced CHD mortality. Services may therefore wish to collect and analyse the same data from eligible patients in order to monitor health outcomes (CHD mortality) within the service. Reducing BP, managing blood cholesterol levels and supporting people to quit smoking are major priorities to improve CHD outcomes, particularly for Mäori.
Reference: Aust N Z J Public Health. 2008;32:117-25
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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