Coronary heart disease risk factors: Family history, smoking, and diet among patients at Royal Prima General Hospital

Abstract

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of death worldwide, influenced by both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. This study aimed to analyze risk factors for CHD based on family history, smoking activity, and dietary habits among patients at Royal Prima General Hospital Medan.

Methods: A quantitative study with a cross-sectional design was conducted from December 16, 2025 to January 6, 2026. The sample comprised 35 CHD patients selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records, and analyzed using univariate, descriptive bivariate, and descriptive multivariate analyses.

Results:  Results showed that a portion of respondents had a family history of CHD, nearly half were active smokers with smoking duration exceeding 10 years, and the majority exhibited risky dietary habits including frequent consumption of fried foods, coconut milk-based foods, fast food, and sweetened beverages. Descriptive bivariate analysis revealed tendencies toward clustering of risk factors, with smokers more likely to have unhealthy dietary patterns. Descriptive multivariate analysis demonstrated that most patients had multiple concurrent risk factors, particularly combinations of family history, smoking, and unhealthy dietary habits.

Conclusion: In conclusion, CHD occurrence among patients is influenced by the interaction of multiple risk factors rather than any single factor. Promotive and preventive efforts focusing on comprehensive healthy lifestyle modifications are needed to reduce CHD risk.