The Framingham Study

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The twenty-four year Framingham Study is a landmark in epidemiological investigation. Largely as a result of this study of the life habits and health of almost 6,000 men and women, atherosclerosis is no longer viewed as an inevitable result of the aging process, but rather a disease that may well be prevented or delayed if specific risk factors can be identified and controlled.

Framingham project director Thomas Dawber now brings together in one comprehensive yet concise report the history of the study, from the development of hypotheses, to the selection of the population sample, to an examination of the methodological problems encountered in longitudinal research. Dr. Dawber’s presentation of the findings demonstrates the basis for current recommendations for decreasing blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, reducing weight, monitoring fat intake in diabetics, increasing physical activity, and discontinuing cigarette smoking.

Addressed to a broad professional audience, The Framingham Study includes an easily understandable statistical analysis. The only book bringing together the entire Framingham story, it will be essential reading for all physicians and health care planners.