Epidemiology and prevention of ventricular ectopic rhythms.

Current work of the Laboratory of Physiological Hygiene is reviewed on the epidemiology and prevention of ectopic ventricular rhythms (VPB). The evidence suggests that uniform simple VPB at rest, or exercise-induced, are prognostically important only in those having clinically manifest coronary disease. A simple rhythm strip is an effective first screen method for detecting individuals having rather frequent VPB, and frequency of VPB is correlated with complex ectopic rhythms. A multifaceted stress induction test induces VPB and does it consistently. Hygienic intervention, in which cardiac stimulants are removed and conditioning exercises given, is being tested as VPB suppressive therapy.