BASIC-S Intervention for Cardiovascular Risk

(BASIC-S Trial)

This trial aims to determine if a lifestyle program called BASIC-S can help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and dementia by encouraging gradual changes in daily habits. The program focuses on improving blood pressure, physical activity, sleep, social interactions, and nutrition, supported by motivational coaching, video check-ins, texts, and a digital workbook. Participants will either receive the BASIC-S program or continue with their usual care for comparison. Individuals who work at or recently retired from London Health Sciences Centre or Western University and can engage in light-to-moderate exercise might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could lead to healthier lifestyle strategies.

A previous study showed that lifestyle changes focused on behavior are safe and well-received by participants. The BASIC-S Intervention includes motivational coaching, secure video check-ins, automated text messages, and a digital workbook to help people gradually change their lifestyles. Since this approach doesn't use medication or involve medical procedures, the risk of negative effects remains generally low. Participants in similar programs reported few side effects, mostly related to the time commitment or adjusting to new habits. Therefore, people considering joining this trial can expect the BASIC-S Intervention to be a safe option that supports healthy lifestyle changes.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about the BASIC-S Intervention for cardiovascular risk because it uses a multicomponent behavioral lifestyle program based on the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) model. Unlike standard care, which typically focuses on medication and routine healthcare, this intervention aims to empower individuals by enhancing their knowledge, motivation, and skills to make healthier lifestyle choices. This approach is unique because it targets behavior change directly, which could lead to more sustainable long-term improvements in cardiovascular health. The personalized and comprehensive nature of the intervention holds the promise of addressing root causes of cardiovascular issues, potentially reducing risk more effectively than conventional methods.

Research has shown that community programs like the BASIC-S program, which participants in this trial may receive, can improve heart health. Studies have found that these programs increase knowledge about heart disease and promote healthier habits, such as better eating and more exercise. One study found that efforts to lower blood pressure reduced the risk of dying from heart disease by 21%. Another study showed a small but positive decrease in the risk of heart problems over ten years. These findings suggest that programs like BASIC-S, which focus on lifestyle changes, can help prevent heart-related issues.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰