Variations in three cardiovascular disease risk factors in Missouri, 1986-1992.

In 1991, cardiovascular disease claimed the lives of over 22,000 Missourians. Recent studies show that much of this mortality can be eliminated through risk factor reduction and early detection. This article examines the regional and demographic differences in three major cardiovascular disease risk factors and outlines some steps that physicians and other health care providers can take to reduce their prevalence.