Food Intake Pattern and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients with Premature Coronary Artery Disease in Iran

Background: There is limited evidence regarding the risk factors and nutritional patterns in patients with premature coronary artery disease (PCAD). This study aims to investigate the relationship between different dietary patterns and risk factors in patients with PCAD. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on PCAD patients, including men younger than 55 years and women younger than 65 years, who underwent coronary angiography in the Angiography Department of the Shahid Mohamadi Hospital, Bandar Abbas, Iran. Anthropometric and clinical examination, demographic questionnaires, and containing dietary intake and physical activity questionnaires were filled for all participants. Results: The most prevalent risk factors for obstructive PCAD in the 65 selected patients were family history of coronary artery disease (CAD) (73%), hypertension (52%), and overweight/obesity (50%). Daily consumption of hydrogenated fats (P = 0.008) and high-fat milk (P < 0.001) were significantly higher in obstructive PCAD patients compared to non-obstructive and non-PCAD patients. Daily consumption of fruits was significantly higher in non-obstructive and non-PCAD patients compared to obstructive PCAD patients (P = 0.039). Conclusion: Family history of CAD, hypertension, and obesity were found to be the most common risk factors among obstructive PCAD patients.  According to the findings, increased consumption of high-fat milk and hydrogenated fats may increase the risk of PCAD, whereas, daily consumption of fruits may reduce the risk of PCAD.