Gender comparison of C-reactive protein and cardiovascular disease risk in college students and intercollegiate

J C Orri1, S R Carter, E B Howington

  • 1Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94117-1080, USA. jorri@usfca.edu

Insights

Cardiovascular risk factors like HDL, SBP, and body fat differ between college-aged men and women. Many students exhibit risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD), highlighting the need for early intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Sports Medicine
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Coronary artery disease (CAD) risk in young adults is understudied.
  • Understanding cardiovascular risk in college populations is crucial for long-term health.
  • Gender-specific differences in cardiovascular risk may emerge during young adulthood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare cardiovascular risk factors between college-aged men and women.
  • To identify specific risk factors associated with coronary artery disease in young adults.
  • To investigate the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) and cardiovascular risk factors.

Main Methods:

  • Thirty college men and women participated in the study.
  • Assessed cardiovascular risk factors including blood pressure, body composition, cholesterol, and glucose.
  • Utilized t-tests for group comparisons and correlation analyses for risk factor relationships.

Main Results:

  • Significant gender differences were found in HDL, TC/HDL ratio, SBP, and %BF.
  • No significant differences in total cholesterol or CRP levels between genders.
  • CRP was positively correlated with %BF and BMI; 47% of participants had one or more CAD risk factors.

Conclusions:

  • College students exhibit gender-specific differences in coronary artery disease risk.
  • % body fat, BMI, waist circumference, and fasting glucose are associated with CRP.
  • Early identification and management of cardiovascular risk factors in young adults are essential.
Abstract

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