MD-patient communication cuts heart disease risk

A new study suggests that good doctor-patient communication can cut the risk of heart disease, whether that communication is done in person or via the Internet. The study, conducted by Temple University School of Medicine, took place over four years, focusing on otherwise healthy rural and urban patients at risk for cardiovascular disease. Researchers divided participants into two groups. Both groups received devices to measure their blood pressure and a pedometer to count their daily steps, along with exercise education and access to physicians via office visits. One of the two groups, meanwhile, had access to an Internet-based health reporting system used to communicate key stats like their blood pressure, weight and exercise habits, getting additional feedback and education in return.  Both groups improved their health on a few key measures, including lipid levels, blood pressure and cardiovascular disease scores.

To learn more about the study:
- read this Health Day News piece

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