Changes in knowledge, attitudes and practices among coronary artery disease patients

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze changes in knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding diet and life style related risk factors among male and female coronary artery disease (CAD) patients (30‐60 yrs), in Jaipur city.Design/methodology/approachAll willing patients under medical supervision for CAD were included. A detailed pre‐tested and standardized interview schedule was used to elicit required information. In total, 100 subjects were assessed for KAP. Retrospective data were recorded for the information on KAP prior to the incidence of the disease.FindingsThe major findings revealed that there was a significant change in knowledge, attitudes and practices before and after the incidence of CAD. Knowledge and attitudes were found to have a strong association. Close association was statistically established between knowledge and smoking practice for male subjects and between attitudes and weight loss for female patients. No association could be established for other attributes.Originality/valueThe study explores the effect of CAD on the knowledge, attitude and practices of the patients regarding diet and life style related risk factors. It also observes and compares the data for prior to the frank expression of the disease and after the disease.