Cardiovascular disease risk of homeless patients

摘要

In response to the article by Holt et al,1 in the July issue, the use of practice-based software would increase our efficiency in identifying individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study focuses on the older age group of 50–74 years. A recent study done by the Stockport PCT examining the CVD risk factor screening in the homeless population demonstrates that only a small number of homeless individuals fell within the age range of screening (35–70 years), but all of them were successfully screened to some degree. It also shows that they had more risk factors, the age of the individuals attending was younger, and they had more high-risk lifestyle behaviours. Even though only a small number was taken into account in this study, it emphasised why this group of individuals needs to be targeted for future health care. A proposed GP-led health centre by Lord Darzi in the area providing 0800–2000 hours care daily would allow them to be registered with a GP and therefore provide these patients with supportive and accessible health care. More upstream health prevention and health promotion could be offered in this centre as well as drug and alcohol treatment services.