Knowledge correlates to patient behaviour with respect to some risk factors, which should be recognised in preventive programs.

Implementation of guidelines for coronary heart disease prevention is less optimal in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate if specific knowledge (patients' knowledge about their own coronary heart disease risk factors) would correlate to their adherence as measured by self-reported lifestyle changes, reaching defined treatment goals and adhering to treatment with prescribed drugs. The consecutive medical records of 509 men and women younger than 71 years, hospitalized for a cardiac event, were screened. Of these, 392 patients came for an interview and were subjected to a clinical examination. All patients received a questionnaire regarding their specific knowledge of risk factors and their adherence to lifestyle changes, which was completed by 347 patients. In addition, data were collected and analyzed on how their treatment goals were attained in 8 domains and their adherence to drug treatment. There were significant correlations between specific knowledge and self-reported lifestyle changes, the ability to reach treatment goals in all 8 domains, and adherence to prescribed drugs. Patients with coronary heart disease will benefit from increased specific knowledge of risk factors to adhere with lifestyle changes and prescribed medication after a cardiac event.

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Secondary prevention should consist of person-centred support to both the patients and their partners, since factors such as age, gender and education level can influence information preferences during patient care.