The Alameda County Study: A Systematic, Chronological Review

This study is a systematic review of the Alameda County study findings and their importance in establishing a link between lifestyle and health outcomes. A systematic review of literature was performed and data indicating important links between lifestyle and health were synthesized. Although initial studies focused on the associations between health outcomes and personal health habits known as the "Alameda 7," subsequent studies focused on the relationships between social variables, religiosity, several chronic health problems, and long-term health. Significant findings during periodic assessments of the original 1965 cohort yielded strong support for a link between lifestyle habits and long-term health outcomes. Additionally, social networks, religiosity, and several demographic variables were found to be associated with chronic disease development.