Indicators of risk of ischaemic heart disease in patients with acute myocardial infarction under 65 years and their relatives.

The incidence of risk factors for atherosclerosis was investigated in a group of 846 patients under 65 years of age, hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AIM) in coronary hospital units in 21 districts of the Czech Republic in 1996. The group of patients comprises 649 men and 197 women. The incidence of risk factors in patients was compared with the incidence of risk factors in the population of the Czech Republic: the mean values of the investigated indicators are in patients with AIM higher in both sexes (total serum cholesterol, triacylglycerols, BMI, WHR). As to anamnestic data, in the majority low or irregular physical activity predominates, a high percentage of patients reported that they "do not restrict" or "rather do not restrict" their total food intake nor the intake of animal fats. Among the patients 52.6% males and 42.1% females were smokers. The results indicate that patients with AIM have a higher incidence of risk factors for atherosclerosis, a higher percentage of patients have cumulated risks and a higher percentage of patients has a higher risk score than the general population. The incidence of AIM is markedly higher in subjects with lower education.

Nutrition in ten-year-old children of the Liberec area (Czech Republic).

Food intake and nutrition were studied in a representative population of 10-year-olds living in the Czech Republic (n = 339), along with biological parameters (anthropometry, cholesterol) and social factors. The weight/height body mass index was normal (average = 17 kg/m2), in spite of energy intake (about 8,000 kJ) 10% below Czech recommendations. The protein-fat-carbohydrate distribution of the diet was 11, 35 and 54%. Many children had a high level of serum cholesterol (mean 4.38 mmol/l). Finally, ingesting a healthier lunch at school than at home improved the daily ration in energy and many nutrients.