American college of cardiology on health coaching
This month the American College of Cardiology (ACC) published an article titled "Prioritizing Health: Journey of the Health and Well-Being Coaching Profession," highlighting the evolution and significance of health and well-being coaching (HWC) in combating cardiovascular disease. The article emphasizes that cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally, with 20.1 million fatalities in 2021, primarily due to modifiable lifestyle-related risk factors such as poor diet, smoking, and physical inactivity. HWC has emerged over the past decade as a respected partnership between coaches and patients, focusing on physical, emotional, and behavioral health to enhance cardiovascular and metabolic well-being.
The ACC article underscores the vital role of lifestyle improvements in preventing and managing cardiovascular and other chronic diseases. Health and well-being coaches collaborate with patients to set personalized goals, develop sustainable health habits, and navigate challenges in behavior change. This patient-centered approach has been shown to improve outcomes by addressing the root causes of unhealthy behaviors and empowering individuals to take control of their health.
The article also discusses the integration of HWC into clinical practice, noting that incorporating coaching into standard care can lead to better patient engagement and adherence to treatment plans. By fostering a supportive environment, health and well-being coaches help patients make lasting changes that reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and improve overall quality of life.
Health and well-being coaching help address lifestyle-related risk factors in cardiovascular disease. By focusing on personalized, patient-centered strategies, HWC offers a promising avenue for enhancing heart health and preventing disease progression.
