Knowledge about cardiovascular risk factors among obese individuals
Per Andersson1, Rickard L Sjöberg, John Ohrvik
1Department of Caring and Public Health Science, Mälardalen University, S-72123 Västerås, Sweden. per.andersson@mdh.se
European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|April 18, 2006
Summary
Obese individuals have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. However, their knowledge about CVD risk factors is similar to normal-weight individuals, especially when education level is considered.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Obesity is a significant biological risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- Understanding knowledge gaps regarding CVD risk factors is crucial for public health interventions.
- Previous research suggests obese individuals face higher risks for other biological CVD risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if obese individuals possess different knowledge levels about CVD risk factors compared to normal-weight individuals.
- To investigate the association between obesity and other biological CVD risk factors.
- To replicate previous findings on the link between obesity and CVD risk.
Main Methods:
- A screening program identified 385 normal-weight (BMI<25 kg/m²) and 159 obese (BMI≥30 kg/m²) participants aged 50 in Västmanland, Sweden.
- Participants completed questionnaires on demographics and knowledge of cardiovascular risk factors.
- Objective measurements included total cholesterol, blood glucose, blood pressure, height, and weight.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in CVD risk factor knowledge was found between obese and normal-weight individuals after controlling for education level.
- Obesity and lower education levels were associated with increased prevalence of other CVD risk factors, including hypertension and high serum cholesterol.
- These findings highlight a complex interplay between obesity, education, and cardiovascular health.
Conclusions:
- Obese individuals are at higher risk for developing additional CVD risk factors.
- Knowledge about cardiovascular disease risk factors is comparable between obese and normal-weight individuals, particularly when education is accounted for.
- Public health strategies should address both obesity and educational disparities to mitigate CVD risks.
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