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Cardiovascular risk factor levels in Portuguese students
P Marques-Vidal1, S Llobet, J A Carvalho Rodrigues
1Unidade de Farmacoterapia, Nutrição e Biofarmacêuticos, Instituto Superior de Ciências da Saúde - Sul, Travessa da Granja, Monte da Caparica, Portugal. pvidal@iscss.pt
Acta Cardiologica
|May 19, 2001
Summary
Cardiovascular risk factors are prevalent in young Portuguese men, with higher rates of obesity and hypertension compared to women. Early preventive measures, particularly targeting obesity, are recommended for this demographic.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Portugal exhibits a high incidence of cerebrovascular disease within Europe.
- This study investigates the early onset of cardiovascular risk factors in the Portuguese population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence and levels of key cardiovascular risk factors in young Portuguese adults.
- To identify potential gender-specific differences in risk factor distribution.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1001 health education candidates (mean age 19.3 years).
- Measurements included body mass index, blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and triglycerides.
- Prevalence of obesity, hypertension, smoking, and alcohol consumption was recorded.
Main Results:
- Young men exhibited higher body mass index, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels than women.
- Men also showed higher prevalence of obesity, hypertension, smoking, and drinking.
- Women had higher total and HDL-cholesterol levels.
- Obese individuals, regardless of gender, presented significantly elevated blood pressure and lipid profiles.
Conclusions:
- Young male Portuguese students display a high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors.
- Preventive strategies are crucial, with a specific focus on addressing obesity in this population.