Article

Internet-based interventions to manage and prevent chronic diseases are
becoming increasingly popular, especially for those with limited access to health
services. This article reviews Internet-based interventions for the prevention of
cardiovascular disease (CVD) and reduction of cardiovascular risk factors.
METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched using terms for
telemedicine and CVD (heart disease* OR myocardial infarction OR cardiac event*
OR heart attack* OR cardiovascular disease* OR cardiovascular risk factor* OR
blood pressure OR hypertension OR cholesterol OR LDL-C OR HDL-C OR cardiac
rehabilitation) AND (telemonitor* OR tele-monitor* OR teleconsult* OR
tele-consult* OR telemanagement OR tele-management OR telerehab* OR tele-rehab*
OR Internet-based intervention OR internet based intervention OR Internet
intervention* OR web based or web-based). Studies that investigated
Internet-based interventions delivered directly to patients and resulted in
improvement of cardiovascular-related health outcomes were included. RESULTS:
Studies were identified (N = 23) investigating the reduction of cardiovascular
risk factors. Five studies investigated patients diagnosed with CVD, 6 targeted
participants with diabetes, 6 targeted participants with increased cardiovascular
risk, and 6 investigated the general population. The majority of studies reported
improvement in blood pressure and HbA1c levels in participants diagnosed with
type 2 diabetes. Other outcomes included a decreased number of cardiovascular
events, improved lipid profile and eating habits, decreased weight, and increased
physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: There is emerging evidence that Internet-based
interventions may reduce cardiovascular risk in cardiac patients and in
populations with a heightened risk of CVD. Such interventions may also represent
an alternative method of providing CVD prevention strategies.

Langue : ANGLAIS