| Summary: | Thesis (M.Sc.)--Memorial University of Newfoundland, 2002. Medicine Bibliography: leaves 67-70. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) accounted for 36% of all deaths in Canada in 1997 (Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2000). Different methods of communication have been employed to increase CVD risk awareness. The purpose of this study was to generate knowledge regarding the association between one method of communication, interpersonal communication (specifically LifeStyle (LS) Clinics) and individual behaviour modification. This study also served as a pilot project for the province-wide evaluation of this communication approach by the Newfoundland & Labrador Heart Health Program. A quasi-experimental study with one pretest and two post-tests was conducted in Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador. Thirty individuals participated in this study. Consenting LS Clinic participants completed 2 pre-coded questionnaires (pre-and post-LS Clinic attendance) and were interviewed one-month post-LS Clinic. Participant responses were analyzed using SPSS 8.0. A key informant interview was conducted with the LS Clinic public health nurse. Participants modified certain lifestyle behaviours post-LS Clinic attendance, such as increasing daily physical activity levels (p=0.015). LS Clinic attendance, however, was not associated with a change in participants' CVD risk knowledge and attitudes. Additional variables, including: personal health; spouse's health; physicians' advice; gender; and, season of year were also associated with behaviour modification. Recommendations were suggested for the province-wide evaluation of the LS Clinics.
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