Lipid profile analysis in school children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Cardiovascular Risk Factors
• Public Health

Background:

• Coronary atherosclerosis is a leading global cause of death.
• Dyslipidemia is a significant independent risk factor for acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare lipid profiles and blood pressure in children attending private versus public/philanthropic schools.
• To investigate the correlation between lifestyle factors and cardiovascular risk markers in school children.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of blood samples from 343 children.
• Correlation of lipid profiles with lifestyle factors (diet, physical activity).
• Statistical analysis using Student's t-test and chi-square test.

Main Results:

• Private school students exhibited significantly higher total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and Castelli Index I.
• Higher blood pressure was observed in private school students, though not statistically significant.
• 23% of private school students had total cholesterol > 190 mg/dL vs. 4% in public/philanthropic schools.
• A positive association was found between physical activity, nutritional guidance, and improved lipid profiles in lower socioeconomic status children.

Conclusions:

• Total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol correlate positively with diet and physical activity.
• Healthier lifestyle choices, including regular physical activity and nutritional guidance, benefit children, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Children in private schools showed poorer lipid profiles compared to those in public/philanthropic schools.