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Cardiovascular risk factors in the Northern Sweden MONICA Study
F Huhtasaari1, K Asplund, P O Wester
1Department of Internal Medicine, Kalix Hospital, Sweden.
Insights
Northern Sweden
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular epidemiology
- Public health research
- Population screening
Background:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) MONICA Study monitors cardiovascular disease (CVD) determinants and trends across 40 centers in 27 countries.
- The Northern Sweden MONICA Center is the northernmost participating site.
- This report focuses on baseline data for cardiovascular risk factors in this specific population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present baseline data on cardiovascular risk factors in the Northern Sweden MONICA population.
- To establish a benchmark for future trend analysis within the WHO MONICA Study framework.
- To compare Northern Sweden's risk factor profile with other European populations.
Main Methods:
- Population-based screening of individuals in Northern Sweden.
- Data collection on diastolic blood pressure, hypertension treatment, serum cholesterol, body mass index (BMI), and tobacco consumption.
- Analysis of participation rates (81% of 2,000 invited individuals).
Main Results:
- 19% had diastolic blood pressure >= 90 mmHg; 9% were treated for hypertension.
- Median cholesterol level was 6.10 mmol/l, with a high frequency of hypercholesterolemia.
- Severe obesity (BMI >= 30) prevalence was 9%, lower than most European populations.
- Tobacco consumption: 49% of men (22% snuffers), 31% of women (few snuffers).
- Women under 45 had a more favorable risk factor profile; genders were similar thereafter.
Conclusions:
- Northern Sweden's population exhibits high serum cholesterol, intermediate blood pressure, low severe obesity rates, and high smokeless tobacco use.
- These findings provide crucial baseline data for understanding CVD risk factors in a unique northern European context.
- The data highlights specific risk factor profiles that warrant attention for public health interventions.
Abstract:
In the WHO MONICA Study, determinants and trends in cardiovascular disease are monitored during a 10-year period in 40 centers in 27 countries. The Northern Sweden MONICA Center is located furthest to the north of all participating centers. In this report, baseline data on cardiovascular risk factors are presented. In the first population screening, 1,625 of 2,000 (81%) invited individuals participated. Diastolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 90 mmHg was recorded in 19% and 9% were on drug treatment for hypertension. Median cholesterol level was 6.10 mmol/l and the frequency of hypercholesterolemia was high. A body mass index of greater than or equal to 30, indicating severe obesity, was observed in 9%, a lower proportion than in most other European populations. Among men, the total proportion of tobacco consumers was 49%, including 22% snuffers. Of the women, 31% were tobacco consumers, very few being snuffers. Women had, in general, a more favorable cardiovascular risk factor profile up to the age of 45. Thereafter, the two genders were similar. By international comparisons, the population in northern Sweden is characterized by high serum cholesterol levels, intermediate blood pressure levels, a relatively low prevalence of severe obesity and a high consumption of smokeless tobacco.