Abstract: Objective: To develop a risk communication preference questionnaire among individuals at high risk of cardiovascular diseases and to explore the characteristics of risk communication in order to provide a reference for precise risk communication. Methods: Based on literature review and the Delphi method, attributes and levels of cardiovascular disease risk communication were integrated. A risk communication preference questionnaire was developed using the Best–Worst Scaling method, and its reliability and validity were evaluated. From February to July 2024, a convenience sampling was used to recruit 430 individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease from relevant departments of a tertiary grade A hospital and community healthcare centers in Hangzhou. The cardiovascular disease risk communication preference questionnaire was administered to the patients to analyze their preference characteristics regarding risk communication. Results: The developed questionnaire contained 8 attributes and 16 levels, with good reliability and validity. The order of preference for risk communication attributes among individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease (from highest to lowest) was: risk concept, decision-making model, communicators, time frame, communication channel, communication institution, communication medium, and presentation style. Preferences for levels within each attribute were: absolute risk, shared decision-making, physicians and/or nurses, 10-year risk, offline format, large hospitals, oral communication, and active encouragement. Conclusion: Nurses can develop targeted risk communication strategies based on the characteristics of risk communication preference among individuals at high risk of cardiovascular disease, thereby improving communication effectiveness.

Key words: cardiovascular disease; risk communication; Delphi method; Best-Worst Scaling