A longitudinal study on lifestyle and communication factors in cardiovascular and hypertensive patients characterised by different psychological profiles

Aims: The study aims at contributing to the personalisation of cardiovascular diseases management. Primary objectives are: (a) to propose an integrated approach to the disease management based on the identification of types of patients characterised by different psychological profiles; (b) to investigate longitudinally their lifestyle and disease evolution; (c) to verify the effectiveness of tailored versus generic communication. Method: The study is longitudinal and will involve 400 patients with hypertension and 400 with coronaropathy. Psychological characteristics, lifestyle and communication factors will be measured through questionnaires; standard diagnostic procedures will be applied. Cluster and path analyses will be performed. Expected results: Main result will be the development of a classification system and a protocol allowing: (a) to classify patients into typologies; (b) to have information about their lifestyle and disease evolution; (c) to provide a more effective communication. Current stage: Patients recruitment. Discussion: This study will contribute to a more patient-oriented health care.