The Effect of Unhealthy Lifestyle on the Development of Ischemic Heart Disease

Abstract

Background: Ischemic heart disease (IHD) remains a major global health burden, with lifestyle factors playing a pivotal role in its development. This study aimed to assess the association between unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and the risk of developing IHD among adults in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 316 participants (158 IHD cases and 158 matched controls, 1:1 Ratio) at Prince Mohammed bin Nasser Specialized Hospital. Participants were selected via simple random technique. Data were collected using validated questionnaires assessing sociodemographic data, physical activity, diet, sleep quality, psychological status, and smoking habits. Statistical analysis included Pearson’s correlation and regression models, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Low physical activity, current smoking, and low income were significantly associated with higher odds of IHD. Participants with no weekly physical activity had a significantly higher prevalence of IHD (p = 0.001), as did those with no daily physical activity (p = 0.028). Smoking was a strong predictor, with current and former smokers showing higher IHD rates (p < 0.0001). Lower income (<10,000 SR) was also significantly linked to IHD (p = 0.009).

Conclusion: Unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, particularly smoking, physical inactivity, and low socioeconomic status, were significantly associated with the development of ischemic heart disease. Targeted public health interventions focusing on lifestyle modifications may reduce the burden of IHD in high-risk populations.