Enduring Relevance of the Stages of Change Model for Transforming Lifestyle Behaviors.

BACKGROUND

The applicability of the Stages of Change model for cardiovascular disease-related behaviors, such as smoking, exercise, diet, and sleep quality, is unclear.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using a large-scale epidemiological dataset, we found that baseline behavior change intention, as per the transtheoretical model, was associated with modifications of unhealthy lifestyles including cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, skipping breakfast, and poor sleep quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that an individual's motivation to change assessed by a general questionnaire may contribute to lifestyle modification and potentially prevent subsequent cardiovascular disease.