Nutrition in the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT).

The Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial (MRFIT) is a clinical trial to determine whether primary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD) is achievable. The main objective is to learn whether a special intervention program for men at increased risk of death from CHD can result in a significant reduction in mortality from this disease. For this investigation, 12,866 men, ages thirty-five to fifty-seven years, have been enrolled, after having been identified at increased risk because of a combination of risk factors: Elevated serum cholesterol, elevated diastolic blood pressure, and cigarette smoking. MRFIT provides an excellent opportunity for nutritionists to work closely with physicians, behavioral scientists, nurses, and other scientists in a program to change food habits, reduce blood pressure, and achieve cessation of smoking.