The Framingham Study: The Epidemiology of Atherosclerotic Disease (Commonwealth Fund Publications, 53)

The twenty-four year Framingham Study is a landmark in epidemiological investigation. Largely as a result of this study of the life habits and health of almost 6,000 men and women, atherosclerosis is no longer viewed as an inevitable result of the aging process, but rather a disease that may well be prevented or delayed if specific risk factors can be identified and controlled.Framingham project director Thomas Dawber now brings together in one comprehensive yet concise report the history of the study, from the development of hypotheses, to the selection of the population sample, to an examination of the methodological problems encountered in longitudinal research. Dr. Dawber’s presentation of the findings demonstrates the basis for current recommendations for decreasing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, reducing weight, monitoring fat intake in diabetics, increasing physical activity, and discontinuing cigarette smoking.Addressed to a broad professional audience, The Framingham Study includes an easily understandable statistical analysis. The only book bringing together the entire Framingham story, it will be essential reading for all physicians and health care planners. Preface Contents 1 1. Introduction 2. Organization of the Framingham Study 3. Diagnostic Categories of Atherosclerotic Disease 4. Hypotheses for Study 5. Incidence of Coronary Heart Diseast, Stroke, and Peripheral Arterial Disease 6. Observations on Blood–Pressure Measurement 7. Hypertension as a Risk Factor 8. Lipids and Atherosclerotic Disease 9. Obesity and Atherosclerotic Disease 10. Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Disease 11. Tobacco and Cardiovascular Disease 12. Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease 13. Other Risk Factors 14. Congestive Heart Failure 15. Impact of the Framingham Study on Medical Practice References Publications from the Framingham Study Index Thomas Royle Dawber. A Commonwealth Fund Book. Includes Index. Bibliography: P. 233-238.