A quantitative estimate of the impact of diet on the mortallity of ischaemic heart disease in Denmark

Title
A quantitative estimate of the impact of diet on the mortallity of ischaemic heart disease in Denmark
Publication type
Journal Article
Year of Publication
2000
Journal
Ugeskrift for Laeger
Volume
162
Issue
37
Pagination
4921 - 4925
Date published
2000
ISBN
00415782 (ISSN)
Abstract

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to quantify the impact of different dietary factors on the mortality from ischaemic heart disease in Denmark. Methods: Relative risks and knowledge on the distribution of different dietary factors were used to estimate etiological fractions. Results: It is estimated that an intake of fruit and vegetables and saturated fat as recommended would prevent 12 and 22%, respectively, of deaths from ischaemic heart disease in Denmark. An intake of fish among those at high risk for ischaemic heart disease, would lead to a 26% lower mortality, while alcohol intake among abstainers would have no significant quantitative effect. Discussion: These results suggest that changes in dietary habits according to current recommendations would have an impact on public health in Denmark.