The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults at higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease participate in behavioral counseling in order to prevent the onset of the heart attack or stroke.

The USPSTF suggests that adults who are obese and have at least one other risk factor for developing heart disease – such as smoking, high blood pressure or high cholesterol – engage in behavioral counseling interventions in order to improve their overall level of health through diet and exercise.

In the U.S. alone, it is estimated that approximately 600,000 people die of cardiovascular disease every year. Simple lifestyle changes can help to curb these numbers.

Task Force member Sue Curry, Ph.D., suggests that those who have at least one risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease can benefit greatly from the advice and recommendations provided by professionals such as dieticians, nutritionists, psychologists, physiotherapists, health educators, or exercise professionals.

“By following the recommended interventions, patients can experience health benefits, such as lower blood pressure and cholesterol, thus decreasing their risk for heart disease and stroke. The most effective interventions vary, but typically involve a trained counselor who provides education, helps patients set goals, shares tools to help promote healthy behaviors, and regularly monitors and follows up with patients,” said Curry in a statement.

The final recommendations from the Task Force are published online at www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org, as well as in Annals of Internal Medicine.