Building a Footbridge From Research to Practice in Cardiovascular Risk Reduction

Abstract

As Rippe, Angelopoulos, and Zukley noted in their State-of-the-Art Review, empirically supported lifestyle modification strategies offer numerous advantages over other modalities for reducing cardiovascular risks. Yet, despite compelling evidence for their implementation, the translation of lifestyle interventions from research to practice has been challenging. Their review prompts discussion of several especially thorny barriers including the persistent tensions between (1) research and practice, (2) main effects and mediators, (3) single and multifactor approaches to risk management, and (4) primary care and communitybased systems of health delivery.