Younger men's experience of heart attack (v1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A qualitative study of how younger men experience and make sense of heart attack (myocardial infarction)
IRAS ID
162964
Contact name
Christopher Merritt
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College London
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
The number of heart attacks is declining in the UK. However, data suggest that this reduction in heart attacks is not found in younger adults (under 45 years old). This presents a health challenge now, but also for this age group as they get older. Little is known about how younger adults are affected by heart attacks.
This study therefore aims to explore the experience of heart attacks within a sample of younger men, under 45 years old at the time of their heart attack. Questions that will be asked fall into three main categories:
1. Past: What do people think caused their heart attack? It is important to know whether people understand the factors that led to their heart attack.
2. Present: How is the heart attack affecting different areas of life for the person? For example, work, family, physical activity, relationships.
3. Future: How do they think the heart attack will affect them in the future? Will it lead to them making changes in life?
Up to 20 young men who have had a heart attack will be interviewed. The texts of the interviews will be analysed for themes in experience. This will enable the results of this study to be compared to studies that have been done before, particularly on the experience of older men who have had a heart attack. This will give a snap shot of some similarities and differences of heart attack experience for younger adults.
The results could then be used to help plan care for this younger age group following a heart attack and even for those in the age group who may be at risk of a heart attack.
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/2238
Date of REC Opinion
5 Jan 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion