American journal of preventive medicine
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The association of physical inactivity and elevated body mass index (BMI) with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is well established. The relationship of dietary caloric intake and CVD risk is less certain. ⋯ In this large general population sample, lower levels of physical activity and obesity were independently associated with decreased CVD survival. Moreover, when BMI, physical activity, and other relevant characteristics were taken into account, caloric intake was not related to CVD mortality.
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To evaluate the associations of state laws restricting firearms and incidence rates of suicide in men and women using a cross-sectional design. ⋯ Results support the hypothesis that state restrictions on firearms have the potential to reduce the suicide rate. Findings do not support a hypothesis that greater firearm restrictions are associated with the substitution of alternative methods of suicide. Firearms appear to be a comparable exposure for suicide in men and women. Although men are more likely to use firearms in suicide than women, this difference may merely reflect more frequent gun ownership among men.
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A Healthy People 2010 objective includes increasing public awareness of the warning signs of stroke, yet few data exist about the level of awareness. Recognition of stroke symptoms and awareness of the need to call 911 for acute stroke events were examined among the general population. ⋯ Public recognition of major stroke symptoms is low. Educational campaigns to increase awareness among the general population and targeted messages to those at high-risk persons and their families may help to improve time to treatment for adults suffering acute strokes.